ARCHITECTURE
SACRAMENTO
Architect : Gennifer Muñoz , Studio Oxeye Clients : Eric Flanquart and Sumi Mishra
Eric Flanquart and Sumi Mishra ’ s large double-infill lot is a bit of a rarity in Midtown Sacramento . The front parcel , on G Street , is used for the couple ’ s main residence , but they struggled with how to utilize the rear portion along Government Alley .
They contacted architect Gennifer Muñoz , principal at Studio Oxeye , to ask about solutions for parking . The couple had a young son and a baby on the way , and the conversation with Muñoz evolved into the need for a guest house for the couple ’ s extended families . Mishra ’ s family is from India and Nashville , and Flanquart ’ s reside in France , so when visiting , they often stay for extended periods . The goal was to create a modern secondary dwelling unit that could house family and guests but also connect to the main home . The couple showed Muñoz some images of modern designs but were open to her creative ideas . “ We have always liked the modern aesthetic , and we wanted to create something of architectural and historical value for future generations of building lovers ,” says Flanquart .
The architect called for a clean aesthetic inspired by midcentury details : black , white , wood and concrete , integrated with natural elements like Mexican pebbles . White stucco was used as the primary exterior material to tie into the main house . Horizontal siding made of ipe , a South American hardwood , and Corten steel panels that naturally patina add warmth to the modern palette . A black standing seam metal roof and black trim provide a contrast to the white siding .
The primary design concept was based on breaking down the interior spatial requirements by function ; the roof planes switch with each room and also down the length of the building , earning the project the nickname Switch House . “ I ’ m a believer in a building expressing its function ,” says Muñoz . “ Instead of having one giant echoing room , the building form creates these really beautiful articulations of the vault based on the shape of the roof .” The design helps to break down the space and creates interesting opportunities for interior painted accent walls with angular shapes . Contemporary kitchen cabinets feature Douglas fir and complementary tones of green . The countertops and floors are both finished concrete .
Custom steel light fixtures were designed by the architect and welded by her husband , who is a general contractor she collaborates with often . Large glass doors and windows flood the space with natural light and extend the living space to the outdoors . Discreetly placed windows on the rear of the home bring in much needed daylight and ventilation , and also for privacy from the alley .
“ The city actually loved the design for this home and encouraged the alley development ,” Muñoz says . “ They have a new initiative where they are really trying to improve the alleys to inspire a more pedestrian-friendly city .”
72 comstocksmag . com | January 2021