Desert House

Los Angeles–based Marmol Radziner + Associates is perhaps best known for highend restorations of historic modernist residences such as the Kaufmann Desert House (1946) in Palm Springs and new designs for refined custom homes. The firm had previously used prefabricated structures in the commercial sector for educational clients, so their recently launched prefab houses are a logical extension of these two distinct experiences. The prototype Desert House (2005) is located in Desert Hot Springs, California, and incorporates a series of fully enclosed and outfitted interior modules along with covered or shaded deck modules functioning as outdoor living spaces that unfold and frame the natural beauty of the surrounding environment. Their practice of design/build—in which architectural design and construction are undertaken by the same company—led to the creation of Marmol Radziner Prefab, which produces all of their housing components, including windows, doors, and cabinetry, in a factory near downtown Los Angeles.

By establishing their own manufacturing operation, the firm can insure that the end product meets their expectations for fit and finish. A standard 12-foot-wide steelframed module offers an open floor plan and can be combined with other house and deck modules to expand the overall space. The initial offerings range from a onebedroom, one-bath unit to a three-bedroom, three-bath version. Exteriors can be clad in metal and/or wood. Other options include a choice of wood flooring, motorized blinds, walnut and teak cabinetry, and upgraded appliances and fixtures. Base pricing ranges from $215,000 to $295,000 with a variety of installation packages available at additional cost.

http://www.marmolradzinerprefab.com