Stealth House

The Stealth House redefines the ADU as a private, self-sufficient retreat within a dense urban environment. On a compact alley-access lot, the 1,100-sf residence transforms limited space into a light-filled sanctuary through inventive planning and materials. There are no perimeter windows. Instead, two interior courtyards bring daylight and nature into every room. The main courtyard, shaded by an olive tree, provides seasonal cooling, while a smaller aviary courtyard with bamboo plantings introduces movement and texture. Floor-to-ceiling glass and strategically placed mirrors heighten openness, light, and acoustic privacy. Performance and resilience are equally emphasized. A photovoltaic array with battery backup supports off-grid capability, while a VRF HVAC system, ultra-efficient appliances, and rainwater collection reduce resource demands. Wrapped in corrugated Corten steel, the house sets a benchmark for compact, sustainable living on constrained urban lots.

“I like that it’s a very strong statement and has very simple lines but also creates these interesting shapes, bringing privacy from the outside and then creating an interior courtyard that is very intimate. I like this idea of being good to the neighborhood but at the same time creating something interesting on the inside.”

—Víctor Legorreta, Hon. FAIA