As many of the Cochera Valley Country Clubs built around the golf lifestyle enter their sixth decade, homeowners are increasingly faced with a common puzzle: how to deal with an existing old house — a house with long-gone emotions and lifestyle desires. This is the design challenge that o2 Architecture faces.

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The old house, which has a history of 50 years, has a striking circular living room, but later the plan became highly isolated and inward focused. This inward-centered spatial isolation is incompatible with today's informal country club life, seamless indoor-outdoor flow, and multi-generational activities. The swimming pool and outdoor living area — located on the course adjacent to the north side — are in the winter shade of the residence, unresponsive to the sun to the south and the panoramic view of Mount Eisenhower. Still fascinated and inspired by the home's original circular living room, the architects set about dismantling the existing structure to incorporate the new design into the original curved geometry.

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Viewed from above, Eldorado Tres's home court consists of two reclining crescent moons — one facing south for a panoramic view of the winter sun and rugged foothills, and the other facing north into Stadium 17.

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The planning logic of the double lunar site and floor plan becomes clear immediately upon arrival at the entrance hall located in the gap between the two new moons. From this crucial core, 4 distinct areas can be seen: to the north, you can see through a glass wall to Field 17, past the home/media room; to the east is a passive palm oasis, reminiscent of the natural palm groves peculiar to the canyons around the Coachella Valley; to the south is spacious with rooms and extensive A wall of windows, a private pool, and a courtyard surround Mount Aisenhowell; finally, back to the palm grove on the west, along the path leading to the front door.

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The purpose of the corridor leading to the entrance door is to protect a 50-year-old olive tree at the front of the property. Majestic and serene in nature, the olive tree sets the tone for a poetic, monochromatic journey along winding paths and materials until it gradually reveals an entrance door in the distance.

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The passive strategy starts with the residential site design, including seasonally optimizing the direction of southern hanging and glass, and incorporating plenty of cool northern glass. The exposed water-polished stone floor increases the heat quality in the direction of the passive sun. Ample operable north/south windows add cross ventilation. For these passive strategies, solar photovoltaic panels and backup batteries help families avoid expensive utility costs for time of use.

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