A 100-year old olive tree sits at the first floor of this atrium at the entry to a Beverly Hills mansion. On the second floor, the corridors of the second level open out to the level below, while a glass skylight above allows daylight to stream in.
Like other Eichler homes, this 1964 model designed by Claude Oakland and Jones & Emmons opens to a spacious central atrium, which has been updated with concrete pads bordered by loose stones that house local succulents under the semi-enclosed space. Deep eaves allow for some shade, while a larger central portion remains open for trees and sunlight.
A double-height entrance atrium welcomes visitors into this multi-generational family home in Agra, India, in a project designed by the New Delhi design firm of flyYingseeds Studio. The different parts of the existing home were reshuffled, bringing together a large family.
Villa Mosca Bianca by Design Haus Liberty is surrounded by outdoor terraces that cascade down to the waters of Lake Maggiore. Within the house itself, though, the central atrium not only acts as a focal point but also supports a rainwater collection system, and its operable glass facilitates passive ventilation. "It's also just peaceful watching it rain inside the house," says Dara Huang, founder of Design Haus Liberty.