Hawaiian Home Situated Next To 300-Year-Old Lava Flow

ByMyProperty Life

Living next to an old lava flow does sound like an exciting prospect – even if it is one that is 300 years old. But for the residents of Maui, Hawaii dealing with fiery volcanoes and lava flows is a less common affair. Despite this constant interaction with volcanic elements, it is hard to find a home that is as unique and yet unassumingly ‘effective’ as the Outside House designed by FLOAT Architectural Research and Design. Made out of two small pavilions, the elegant house was crafted for a life that is in harmony with nature and gives the homeowners an opportunity to easily interact with the elements outside. And yes, it is the 300-year old lava flow just outside the bedroom that ends up becoming the showstopper.

Polycarbonate sheathing covers the exterior of the cabin

It is the completely enclosed unit in wood and Polycarbonate sheathing that contains the more private areas of the house and offers a modest living environment. Dubbed ‘Mauka’, this unit sits on concrete piers and it is from the bedroom that one can enjoy amazing views of nature outside along with a peek at the lava flow. Once inside one is engulfed by wood and the cozy environment is still minimal and nature-centric. It is the outdoor pavilion called ‘Makai’ that feels much more liberating as a carefully hidden outdoor kitchen on the deck, sitting area and outdoor shower create a serene environment.

Unhindered views of the Pacific Ocean and Kahoolawe Island in the distance, a relaxing ambiance and practicality that also takes into account sustainability are the features that give the Outside House a sense of exclusivity. [Photography: Olivier Koning]

Read another article:Design Trends for Creating a Vacation Vibe at Home

RELATED: Home with a View; McClean Design Home in LA is Simply Amazing

Concrete base supports the wooden structure of the main house
Fabulous pavilion style outdoor house sits above the 300-year old lava flow
Pavilion style outdoor unit of Outside House in Maui
Covered pavilion with outdoor kitchen creates a connect with the landscape
Large window of the bedroom offers wonderful views of the landscape outside
Bench next to the window along with a small chair and desk serves multiple purposes

Designer Erin Moore is an architect and principal of FLOAT architectural research and design and Associate Professor in the Architecture Department and in the Environmental Studies Program at the University of Oregon. Moore uses her teaching, research, and design practice to explore ways that architecture reflects and reinforces ideas of nature.

RELATED: California Beach House Spells Luxury and Class

Sheltered bathroom connected with the outdoors
Floor plan of Outside House in Maui

Similar Posts

  • Abraham Shapiro, AIA, Architect

    Abraham Shapiro, AIA, Architect :: Mid-Century Modern. Tucked into a cul-de-sac at the very top of the Encino hills, a stone’s throw to Mulholland and a three-minute drive to the Skirball Cultural Center, this masterfully designed and recently renovated architectural home is close to everything the City has to offer. Next door to Bel Air, Brentwood and Beverly Hills, with easy access to the 405, and just up the street from Ventura Boulevard, the location couldn’t be more convenient. Designed as his own personal residence by influential architect Abe Shapiro, onetime partner of both Bill Krisel and Herb Nadel, this historic property has the clean lines and disciplined detailing consistent with the preeminent USC School of Architecture that dominated residential design in LA in the middle part of the last century. Rebuilt from top to bottom in 2016, the result is a brand new home respectful of the original design, yet upgraded to the standards of the new millennium. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors connect the interior to the landscape, flooding the interior with natural light, together with skylights and clerestory windows. An elegant cook’s kitchen with sleek custom cabinetry and high-end appliances opens directly to the living room and dining room, ideal for entertaining. Valley views, multiple fireplaces, sculptural wine display cabinet, wide plank white oak floors, Carrara marble, porcelain tile, European hardware, designer light fixtures, swimming pool with spa, fire pit, and outdoor kitchen complete the unparalleled package of amenities.

  • 30 Small Kitchen Lighting Ideas that Blend Form with functionality

    The kitchen is a place where you need an even layer of functional and aesthetic lighting that combines the best of both aspects. This becomes even more essential in the small kitchen where lighting can make or break the overall look of the space. In the tiny kitchen every inch of space matters. Saving space […]

    You’re reading 30 Small Kitchen Lighting Ideas that Blend Form with functionality, originally posted on Decoist. If you enjoyed this post, be sure to follow Decoist on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest.