Ventus
ventulus -i, m. a wind
ventus -i, m. wind
ventito — to come often, to visit frequently.
ventosus — full of wind, windy, breezy.
ventulus — breeze, soft wind.
ventus, i, m. Sanscr. vā (to blow), vatas (wind); Gr. root α-, ω, ημι (to blow); Goth. vaia (to breathe); vinds (wind).
I. Wind (synonyms: aura, flamen).
Literal: “Ventus est aëris fluens unda cum incerta motus redundantia,” Vitr. 1, 6; cf. Quint. 12, 10, 67; Plin. 2, 47, 46.
Figurative: the wind as a symbol of fortune (favorable or unfavorable), fame, applause, etc. “Quicumque venti erunt, ars certe nostra non aberit,” however the winds may blow, i.e., whatever circumstances may arise, Cic. Fam. 12, 25, 5. “Alios ego vidi ventos; alias prospexi animo procellas,” id. Pis. 9, 21. Cf. “Cujus (Caesaris) nunc venti valde sunt secundi.”
Ventus
Wind as Energy and Form
While Mōtus defines the building's spatial transformation, Ventus defines its energy strategy.
The residence is conceived as a zero energy structure capable of operating in remote on grid or off grid locations. Wind and solar energy provide the primary energy sources.
The most distinctive element of the project is the sculptural wind form known as the Ventus Cup. This large topographic structure is integrated into the landscape and oriented toward prevailing winds. Its geometry accelerates wind flow across the building surface, significantly increasing energy capture.
Embedded bidirectional wind turbines harness this accelerated airflow. The energy produced is stored through hydrogen fuel cells for later use.
Sustainable Systems
The project integrates several environmental systems into a unified architectural strategy.
A large photovoltaic pergola runs the length of the residence. Composite photovoltaic surfaces are integrated into portions of the Ventus Cup structure. Four embedded wind turbines capture accelerated wind flow, and hydrogen fuel cells store excess energy.
A 218 foot reflecting pool runs along the ridge edge of the site and contributes to passive cooling. Two additional pools further moderate the surrounding microclimate. A vegetated rooftop garden and additional sustainable building systems are integrated throughout the design.
Heating, cooling, and daylighting of the fully glazed living spaces are actively managed through the movable insulated shells and sun screens.
Together these systems generate sufficient energy to power the residence and allow it to operate independently of conventional utility infrastructure.
The Office Pavilion
A cantilevered office studio extends from the main residence and is connected by an open air bridge. The workspace is physically separated yet visually connected to the house and the surrounding landscape.
The design references the spirit of Frank Gehry's Venice Beach studio for filmmaker Bill Norton while extending the idea through a transformable envelope.
The cantilevered workspace projects into the landscape and provides panoramic views while isolating the occupant from distractions. The office becomes both a contemplative retreat and an inspiring place of work.
Unique Features
The most iconic feature of the project is the Ventus Cup itself. Its sweeping curved geometry functions both as a wind energy collector and as the defining architectural form of the house.
Additional features include an outdoor amphitheater integrated into the lower portion of the Ventus Cup. The amphitheater includes radiant heated seating steps and a hydraulically raised weatherproof 25 foot diagonal screen for outdoor film screenings and digital media events.
A large entertainment terrace contains cooking pits and built in dining areas for gatherings.
An additional element provides beach access through an interior tubular slide that connects the upper levels of the house to the shoreline. The concept draws inspiration from the sculptural slide installations of artist Carsten Höller.
Project Scale
The linear arrangement of bedrooms along the upper edge of the plan allows the project to adapt to different site conditions and programmatic needs.
Depending on configuration, the residence can range from approximately 5,000 to 12,000 square feet.
Architectural Intent
The project explores an architecture that is technologically advanced yet deeply experiential.
Environmental systems are not hidden but expressed as integral components of the design. Movement, wind, light, and landscape become active participants in the architecture.
The result is a residence that is environmentally responsible, spatially immersive, and holistically balanced.
