Case Study
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OCEANFRONT
The Tidal Observatory
Scope
Cliffside Structural Hydro-Engineering
Location
Big Sur, CA
Date
Status
Completed Commission
ARCHITECTURAL INTENT
A radical coastal intervention capturing the dynamic fury and poetic stillness of the Pacific tide.
The Tidal Observatory is an uncompromising architectural study in duality, anchoring itself directly into the rugged granite cliffs of the coastline.
The lower volume features floor-to-ceiling structural glazing that plunges directly into the churning surf, allowing the ocean waves to crash against and wash over the submerged lower level.
Above this aquatic foundation sits an expansive open-air infinity pool and cantilevered deck that aligns with the horizon.
Connected seamlessly to private living quarters carved directly into the rock face, the structure utilizes board-formed concrete and native stonework to weather the marine elements while framing breathtaking sunset vistas over the open ocean.
Materiality:
Marine-Grade Board-Formed Concrete, Structural Impact Glazing, Local Granite Masonry, Ipe Timber Decking
Water Feature:
Ocean-Facing Infinity Pool, Submerged Glazed Wave-Action Chamber
Surface Area:
2,800 sq ft
Spatial Study
