AGS Architecture

House III: Terrace– Valle Escondido
4,500 sq. ft. | Schematic Design


STUDIO SOLDIVIERO X AGS ARCHITECTURE

The third home in the Valle Escondido series is located on the steepest site and required a tiered architectural solution. The structure steps down the hillside in three distinct levels, aligning the design with the site’s natural grade. Entry is located at the highest elevation, with living, dining, and kitchen spaces positioned on the middle level. Bedrooms and a secondary family room are located on the lowest floor, offering privacy and a stronger connection to the landscape.

Circulation is organized around a central stair and elevator that connect all three levels, providing efficient access while reinforcing the building’s vertical organization. Each floor opens directly to its own outdoor space, resulting in a sequence of terraces that follow the topography. These exterior zones expand the living area and allow for consistent engagement with the hillside environment.

The massing is defined by its stepped section, which creates a clear, layered form. By allowing the program to follow the slope, the house avoids excessive grading and maintains a balanced relationship with the land. The geometry remains straightforward and functional despite the terrain.

House III demonstrates how steep topography can be used as a design driver, resulting in a residence that is both organized and fully integrated with its site.