The Sun Track Residence in Miami Beach, Florida, is a collaborative project by Christian Wassmann Studio and restaurant owner Frank Prisinzano. The concrete structure echoes the style of 1930s bungalows, highlighting the use of natural sunlight to enhance the vitality and wellbeing of its residents.
Designed by Christian Wassmann, the Sun Track Residence has been expanded into a three-level living space. The open kitchen, positioned between the original structure and the new addition, serves as a connecting hub that encourages interaction between the owner and guests. Behind the bungalow stands a three-story spiral wall, which functions simultaneously as a structural support, a practical element, and an artistic sculpture.
At the top of the building lies the residence’s focal point—the sunroom. Its curved wall, perched on the cliff, mirrors the sun’s path during the summer solstice. At this time, sunlight reflects off the wall onto the deck below, creating a dynamic light experience.
The walls also serve to shield the space from wind, creating a tranquil atmosphere. This secluded area, surrounded by natural elements, offers an open-air retreat free from distractions. Here, occupants can enjoy a unique, contemplative experience far from everyday routine.
The master bedroom, located on the second floor, is adorned with vines and features curved walls that enclose a round bed. An open bathroom is discreetly tucked behind these walls. On the ground level, curved walls surround a large circular dining table and a built-in bench, offering direct views into the original bungalow. The design of the Sun Track Residence reflects a dialogue between primitive dwellings and the cosmos.
The upper edge of the curved wall has been rotated 11.25° relative to the original building and site lines to face due north. In the center of the master bedroom wall, the curvature aligns parallel to the existing house. On the first floor, the 11.25° curvature points toward the garden’s center. This 22.5° rotation is anchored at the flue of the pizza oven, located at the heart of the staircase leading to the sunroom.
▲ Analysis Chart
Project Drawings
▲ First Floor Plan
▲ Master Bedroom Floor Plan
▲ Roof Plan
▲ Sectional View
Project Information
Project Type: Independent Residential Building
Location: Miami Beach, USA
Architect: Christian Wassmann
Area: 300.03 ㎡
Year: 2015
Photographers: Todd Eberle, Casey Kelbaugh
Project Team: Joana Bem-Haja, Pino Pavese, Garrick Ambrose, Helene Nishijo Andersen, Jorge Rivera
Record Architects: Armando Rizo, Rizo Carreno & Partners, Inc.
Structural Engineer: Hector De Los Reyes Engineering Inc.
Electrical Engineering: Project Caine General
Contractor: Cobo Construction Corp
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