House Black on Malibu Coast: An Architectural Design That Embraces the Sea

Home » News » House Black on Malibu Coast: An Architectural Design That Embraces the Sea

House Noir rises on one of the last undeveloped lots along the Pacific Coast Highway. It offers a fresh approach to coastal living. The residence directly addresses the challenges of building by the ocean, including coastal erosion and rising sea levels. These challenges shaped its architectural design from the very beginning.

A floor-to-ceiling glass window framing the Pacific Ocean, with waves crashing onto the shore, while a modern interior space is visible inside.
Inside House Noir, the boundary between indoors and outdoors dissolves. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls bring the ocean into every room, creating a serene living experience where nature becomes part of daily life. Minimalist design meets coastal grandeur in perfect harmony.

A Home Resilient to Nature

The house is raised 20 feet above the shoreline. It is supported by deep foundations and a protective seawall to absorb the energy of the sea in the event of natural events. To withstand the corrosive effects of salty sea air, the building is clad in aluminum panels with rustproof coating. This ensures long-term durability.

House Noir elevated above the beach in Malibu, featuring a modern architectural design with raised structure, glass walls, and a backdrop of hills and ocean.
House Noir stands as a bold architectural statement where innovation meets nature. Built on stilts to combat coastal erosion, this home blends sleek contemporary design with resilience against the elements. Its expansive glass façades frame breathtaking ocean views, while thoughtful engineering ensures harmony with the dynamic coastal environment.

Maximizing Views and Site Potential

The slightly trapezoidal site allows for rare views of both the coastline and surrounding hills. Floor-to-ceiling windows and angled balconies on the first and second floors enhance indoor-outdoor living. They also allow natural light to fill every interior space.

A modern, box-like house with dark gray metal cladding and geometrically arranged glass windows, standing on a coastal street between neighboring homes.
The minimalist façade of House Noir speaks volumes through its bold simplicity. Dark metal panels and precisely placed glass windows create a striking contrast against the sky, reflecting both strength and serenity. This architectural statement blends seamlessly into its coastal neighborhood while standing out with quiet confidence.

Façade and Architectural Details

The façade features standing seam aluminum siding that flows seamlessly from walls to roof, creating a visual and structural continuity. The master suite offers direct ocean views, while the double-height guest suite frames hillside vistas, balancing expansive views with privacy.

House Noir exemplifies how architectural design can harmonize with natural challenges and aesthetics. It makes full use of the site to create a unique living experience with striking vistas.

A modern, dark-clad house with a boxy design stands between two traditional homes along a coastal street under a clear blue sky.
House Noir makes a quiet yet powerful statement in this seaside neighborhood. Nestled between older, more traditional homes, its sleek, minimalist form reflects a bold architectural vision. It’s not just a home—it’s a dialogue between innovation and context, where modernity meets the rhythm of coastal life.

✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight


The article on House Noir presents an architectural approach directly addressing coastal challenges. It emphasizes the elevated structure and the use of corrosion-resistant aluminum panels. The images reveal a seamless integration between façades and roof, maximizing natural light and ocean-hill vistas. However, while visually coherent, the text provides limited insight into the interior spatial experience. It also leaves the interaction between occupants and the space underdeveloped. Nonetheless, it highlights material sustainability and climate-resilient design strategies, reflecting a forward-looking architectural approach.

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