Kovac Architects created this contemporary residence in 2010 for the firm’s founder, Michael Kovac. Located in Pacific Palisades, California, USA, the home is a study in sustainable architecture. Designed as the home of firm Principal Michael Kovac, Sycamore House serves as a laboratory for the firm’s ongoing research into sustainable architecture and a showcase for Kovac’s design philosophy. Materials used to construct the house include formaldehyde-free plywood, recycled glass tile, reclaimed wood, and photovoltaic panels. Inspired by the surrounding sycamores, Kovac commissioned artist Jill Sykes to turn the minimal street facade of recycled fiber cement panels into a canvas into which her subtle shadow patterns were etched. The house also employs an array of sustainable materials, including high fly ash content concrete, Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified woods, reclaimed wood flooring, zero-VOC paints, recycled glass tile, formaldehyde-free plywood, and high efficiency plumbing fixtures and appliances.
