The name Eels Nest is given to very narrow lots in Japan - typically
5 meters in width (15 feet). The width of this lot is exactly 15
feet and so shares at least one interesting quality with some Japanese
urban building projects.
The existing builidng was originally built in 1929 on the same
size lot that it sits on today - approx 780 sq.ft. For this reason
it is a very unique property.
Special planning permission was required to extend the house up
an additional story increasing the usable interior space by double.
The views from the roof extend as far as the Hollywood sign and
the San Gabriel mountains yet the house is surrounded by dense urban
developement.
The interior was designed to maximise the availability of daylight
and the stair well is what conveys this light like a conduit.
The panelling system on the exterior facade comprises of wood panels
of various gradients. These are designed to create an interesting
and varied pattern on the outside.