Casa Lotus

Situated between a sloping limestone bluff and a private lagoon, Casa Lotus responds to its site through interwoven architectural elements centered on Roman brick. Chosen for its durability, texture, versatility, and warmth, the brick establishes the home’s proportions, forms, and rhythms, from floor heights and column spacing to stair dimensions and wall articulation. A winding driveway leads to a dramatic entrance framed by 25-foot-tall columns extending into stairs, retaining walls, and planters. Inside, a central atrium is crowned by a round oculus beneath a 40-foot-high skylight. The floor plan radiates outward from this core, organized by four axial masonry walls—one aligning with the wooden staircase; another filtering the western sun; an undulating wall guiding guests into public spaces and to an art studio; and a privacy wall separating private functions from the main atrium.

“Looking at that image of the atrium and the way it’s dancing with light, it almost feels sacred and like some sort of spiritual ritual going through this house. The care at every moment—from the masonry and opening of glass to the natural light and the incredible oculus which orients you anywhere you are in the house—is quite fascinating.” —Everald Colas, AIA, NOMA

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