The Hell & High Water House

Z4A ARCHITECTS – RAFAEL B. DURAN & OPHELIA MANTZ

COLLABORATORS: DIEGO CONTRERAS, MILI KYROPOLOU

RENDERINGS: SIMON CHIQUITO

“This project drew us all in with its presence on the coast as an object and thinking about how qualities of light would change throughout the day and in different weather conditions. There were renderings of the project taking on its environment, and the designers seemed okay with that. The project seems to become more and more beautiful the older it gets.”

—Matthew Griffith, FAIA

Anthropogenic climate change sits at the intersection of economy, ecology, and politics. Extreme weather, rising seas, and the spread of malaria and dengue intensify inequalities. In Greater Houston, Baytown faces threats from storms, prolonged blackouts, and wet bulb temperatures exceeding 107°C. This project fosters a nature–culture alliance, training users to engage with Gaia. Its undulating pyramidal skin hosts mosquito-repellent plants, climbing vegetation, and shading, enhancing ventilation and convection. Thermal gradients and prevailing winds optimize airflow, while buried ceramic jars regulate temperature. The home is organized across four levels, with overlapping steel-clad units reflecting light and offering protection from storms. A roof terrace for growing food promotes self-sufficiency. The home unites human needs with Earth’s systems while avoiding penalties related to insurance accessibility.