Project: Silo House
Architects: Kaiserworks
Location: Phoenix, Arizona, USA
Area: 340 sq. ft.
Photography: Shelby Moore, Christoph Kaiser, Matt Winquist, Mark Lipczynski
A Minimalist Marvel in Phoenix’s Garfield District
Silo House, designed by Christoph Kaiser of Kaiserworks, reimagines a 1955 grain silo as a cozy micro-home in downtown Phoenix’s historic Garfield district. This innovative project exemplifies sustainable urban living, transforming a relic of American agriculture into a contemporary architectural statement.
At just 340 square feet, the design achieves a remarkable balance between functionality, comfort, and aesthetic appeal, providing a compact yet fully livable space for a single resident or couple.
Design Concept: Merging Industrial Heritage with Modern Living
The Silo House juxtaposes its historic corrugated steel exterior with a warm, wood-clad interior. The white-painted silo reflects the desert sun, while the interior “machine for living” incorporates wood and steel to create a cohesive, furniture-like core.
Key Features:
- Operable Oculus: Passive ventilation is achieved through a skylight at the top of the silo, promoting energy efficiency.
- Efficient Layout: The interior blends essential utilities into the perimeter, allowing for a generous, double-height living area that feels open and inviting.
- Private Garden: Encircling the home, a lush garden provides a tranquil retreat with framed views of the Phoenix skyline, offering both privacy and connection to the urban context.
Historical and Urban Context
Situated in a historically rich yet blighted neighborhood, the Silo House reflects a thoughtful response to its surroundings.
- Reverence for History: The design respects the agricultural and architectural heritage of the Garfield district while signaling revitalization and investment.
- Urban Renewal: Praised by Phoenix’s Historic Preservation Office, the project is a beacon of innovation and sustainability, fostering a dialogue between the past and the future.
An Exploration of Space and Delight
Kaiserworks approached the design with a commitment to efficiency and wonder. The compact interior layout prioritizes functionality while creating moments of generosity through its double-height space and thoughtfully integrated elements.
Architect’s Insight:
“When designing small spaces, moments of generosity, and sometimes extreme generosity, are required to offset the efficiency—hopefully with wonder.” – Christoph Kaiser
