Rising Sun is an entirely factory-made modular house. Composed of five steel modules ranging from 18’x72’ to 18’x36’, the structures form a compound with a home made up of two staggered modules connected at the long sides, a garage, gallery and studio. The five units are grouped to envelop a private inner courtyard. Each module rests on just four concrete piers. Each structure and module enclosure took just five days to fabricate in the controlled factory conditions.
The modules arrive on site fully outfitted with cabinetry, kitchens, and blinds, are lifted into place by crane in two hours, and have only to be plugged into utilities. Rising Sun is a sophisticated and computerized house built using modern fabrication and construction techniques. Its transparent design that all but erases the boundaries between the inside and outside, is possible because of Vierendeel steel trusses that support long spans, unobstructed views, and supplies the rigidity necessary for transport and hoisting.
Each module is placed above ground on four concrete piers at least 12” above the high-water mark so that floods can flow unobstructed through the property. The intense desert sunlight inspired a system of sunshades mounted above the windows to shelter the interiors. Punched horizontal members mounted on the exterior provide both shading and privacy to select areas. Outside, above some of the decks, there are elevated horizontal screens that protect outdoor seating areas and cast dazzling shadow patterns. Retaining the integrity of the site was important.
With on-site construction time reduced, the architects were able to leave the site virtually undisturbed. The buildings and outdoor terraces respond to the site by stepping up and down to follow the uneven terrain. Landscaping using indigenous plants and trees enhances the property’s natural beauty while providing a natural privacy screen.
