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Controlling Complexity Through Collaboration and Prefabrication

Hill House was conceived as a piece of living architecture with intricate freeform design where walls, walkways, and ceilings flow together in continuous motion.

Client

Nevell Group, Inc.

Location

Monticito, CA, USA

Value

Simplified

Type

Residential

Features

Arches

Knife Edges

Freeform

Assembly

Sheet Metal

Panels

Overview

Hill House was conceived as a piece of living architecture with intricate freeform design where walls, walkways, and ceilings flow together in continuous motion:

Two-story light wells, skylight surrounds, and integrated art installations with exposed sub-framing
Fully coordinated digital process with 3D fabrication models and finite element analysis
Complete integration within general contractor's BIM workflow and clash detection process

Problem & Approach

The challenge was twofold: define a parametrically driven curved framing system coordinated across design, engineering, and trade teams, then develop prefabricated kitted curved Parts capable of achieving extreme curvature while supporting a light sculpture by artist James Turrell.

Radius Track's early involvement was critical. Collaborating with the architect, general contractor, and Nevel Group, the team transformed complex digital geometry into a fully engineered buildable framework. Each element was modeled in 3D to integrate seamlessly with other trades, eliminating field conflicts before fabrication.

Prefabrication became the cornerstone. Large assemblies were fabricated offsite under controlled conditions, ensuring dimensional precision and efficient delivery. Installation sequencing was established directly from the digital model, giving field crews clear direction.

Selecting who would work on as high-profile a job as the Hill House was a little like selecting which subcontractors would work on the Hoover Dam or the Mars Rover… Thus, the vendors who ultimately helped manifest Hill House really are a dream team.” – Project Owner

Solution & Results

The result is a multistory architectural feature transitioning fluidly from walls to bridge enclosures to ceilings in one continuous expression. Within its smooth surface, the system conceals advanced acoustic assemblies, level-five plaster finishes, and complex building systems.

Key technical achievements included:

Developed doubly curved framing panels and large-span trusses supporting James Turrell light sculpture
Created parametrically driven system coordinated across design, engineering, and trade teams
Eliminated field conflicts through complete 3D modeling before fabrication
Delivered prefabricated assemblies ensuring dimensional precision and consistent quality
Enabled focus on craftsmanship and finish quality rather than field problem-solving

The precision of the prefabricated cold-formed steel framing allowed the design's sculptural form to emerge exactly as envisioned. The collaborative digital process integrated trades early and maintained control throughout construction.