The architecture of Rick Joy is very experiential as described in the readings. Even just seeing images of his work you can already imagine what it would be like to progress through the spaces he has created. His building forms are very simplistic, yet arranged carefully to frame views to the outside, and he is very attuned to the surrounding environment. I also like how he brings a sense of outside inwards, and vice versa. For example in the Catalina House, the use of the rammed earth massing, wood and light almost make you feel like you are in a cavelike setting. There is little disconnect from the outdoors as he seamlessly melds the interior design with the exterior. His fundamental basics of architecture do not take away from the experiential quality of his work, they enhance it. His materials and forms are very honest, and easily understandable by any viewer. I also think it is interesting that his background before going into architecture was a musician and carpenter. His attention to detail and experiential quality of his work are definitely influenced by his previous jobs.

Catalina House

Catalina House