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California Style
By admin | September 12, 2008
From Hollywood poolside starlets to Venice beach lifeguards, from David Hockney to the beach boys…. the glamour of the west coast of America has influenced british aspirational outdoor culture fomt he 1950’s to the present day. But it’s only now that we are beginning to realize that dull summers can be enhanced with a touch of the Californian dream.
The unique architecture that typifies design on the west coast of America emerged very much for climatic reasons. The hot, dry climate was the classic environment for the development of the patio. In the 1920’s innovative architects, such as Frank Lloyd Wright and Irving Gill pioneered ingenious concrete and cement-rendered architecture based on a few geometric modules and pre-cast units.
This was suitable for Californian living for several reasons: it was the perfect material for maximizing space, reflecting light, exploiting the view of the sea and withstanding earthquakes! Large overhanging slabs of concrete provided specific areas of shade perfect for poolside cooling off - but they also introduced a new building material.
West coast architecture is also distinguished by its use of colour. The brightness of the palette reflects the healthy Californian way of life based around the sea, surf, fresh air and vegetation. The white of the concrete and glass reflects Californian light and space, blue reflects sea and poolside water. while pink brings a touch of decadence - all set off by the lush green of exotic vegetation.
All these elements can be reproduced outside California to create the sun worshipper’s perfect patio. It’s the ideal extension to a stylish home and the ultimate hot spot on which to laze and unwind. Everything should be designed for absolute relaxation, from sun-drenched hardwood decking to low-maintenance desert planting. Style should be paramount, from sculptural coloured walls to sleek, slightly brutal poured concrete.
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