- Project: Silo House
- Architect: KaiserWorks
- Location: United States, Phoenix, Arizona
- Year: 2014
- Area: 31.6 m2
In the heart of Phoenix’s Garfield Historic District, Silo House by Kaiserworks redefines compact living by turning a 1955 corrugated steel grain silo into a refined, 340-square-foot modern residence. This one-of-a-kind structure stands as both a minimalist design marvel and a powerful statement on adaptive reuse and sustainable urban living.
Innovative Design Meets Industrial History
Kaiserworks, led by architect Christoph Kaiser, transformed the agricultural relic into a livable and luxurious small-scale home. The structure’s white-painted exterior reflects the harsh Arizona sun, while inside, a warm wooden interior contrasts beautifully with the steel shell, offering a seamless blend of industrial heritage and modern comfort.
Key Architectural Elements Include:
-
Operable Oculus: A skylight at the dome’s apex allows for natural light and passive ventilation, reducing the need for artificial cooling.
-
Integrated Core: All essential services—including kitchen, storage, bathroom, and sleeping area—are built into a compact, wood-clad core lining the interior perimeter.
-
Double-Height Volume: The main living space is vertically generous, creating a surprising sense of openness in a compact footprint.
-
Private Garden Retreat: A landscaped outdoor area surrounds the home, creating a serene buffer from the city and offering framed skyline views.
A Sustainable Approach to Urban Renewal
Set in a district that once suffered from disinvestment, the Silo House exemplifies thoughtful revitalization. The project has been lauded by the Phoenix Historic Preservation Office as a model for sustainable development and innovative reuse.
Historical Significance:
-
Honors the site’s past through preservation of form.
-
Signals the future of urban living in densely populated environments.
-
Sparks renewed interest and investment in the surrounding neighborhood.
Architect’s Vision: Compact Living with a Sense of Wonder
Christoph Kaiser describes the Silo House as an architectural “machine for living”—a project born from a deep respect for efficiency and delight.
“When designing small spaces, moments of generosity—and sometimes extreme generosity—are required to offset the efficiency. Hopefully with wonder.”
— Christoph Kaiser
Every inch of the home is purposeful. From the custom steel entry to the spatial choreography of light and circulation, the Silo House is a study in restraint and creativity.
Why Silo House Matters
The Silo House stands out not only for its striking form and sustainability but also for its socio-architectural implications. It proves that:
-
Small spaces can offer luxury.
-
Historic materials can support modern life.
-
Minimalism doesn’t mean compromise—it means clarity.
This project contributes to ongoing discussions about housing affordability, urban density, and climate-conscious design—all central themes in today’s architecture discourse.
