CASA ANGELES: A SANCTUARY FOR CONSCIOUS LIVING

Casa Angeles is a holistic wellness and community retreat proposed in the natural setting of Topanga Canyon, California. Developed in collaboration with entrepreneur Alvaro Garnero II., the project envisions a space for healing, creativity, and conscious connection.

Set within the wild landscape of the historic Topanga Corral, once home to legendary open-air concerts, the design reimagines the site as a haven where architecture and nature coexist in balance. The proposal celebrates the spirit of the canyon through open courtyards, natural materials, and softly flowing geometries that blend into the surrounding environment.

At the centre of Casa Angeles stands a colourful triangular crown, a crafted architectural canopy inspired by California’s indigenous art forms. The structure takes cues from the intricate basketry of the Tongva (Gabrielino-Tongva) people, whose woven patterns and symbolism reflect a deep relationship with the land.

This crown becomes both a sculptural landmark and a shelter, filtering light into vibrant patterns that shift throughout the day. Its geometry and colours evoke the spirit of community, celebration, and the cyclical connection between people and nature.

The wider design of Casa Angeles unfolds around a series of courtyards, terraces, and timber pavilions that promote mindfulness and social connection. Parametric design tools were used to translate traditional craft language into architectural form, merging ancient artistry with digital fabrication.