Grass Lake, MI (2022)

Hot Seat is one discreet component in a larger, systemic series of passive solar interventions at a farmhouse in rural Michigan. At its core, it introduces a substantial volume of thermal mass directly adjacent to a south-facing wall of glazing. Constructed from reclaimed bricks and cast-in-place concrete, and bordered to the south by a slate tile floor, the installation absorbs solar radiation throughout the day and gradually releases heat into the interior as part of the home’s passive convection loop.

To make this thermal mass more functional, its form is shaped into a bench oriented toward the living space. The geometry—cast in textured concrete—integrates with the adjacent masonry fireplace and includes an angled seatback for comfort. The seat and top cap are made from wood salvaged from the home’s original flooring, removed during construction. The result is a quietly efficient element—merging environmental function with daily comfort.

This project was completed in collaboration with:
Kasey Vliet - xxx
Travis Williams - xxx
Elpis Wong - xxx
Trevor Herman Hilker - xxx