In Solis Park in Irvine’s Great Park Neighborhoods AO Architecture Firm unveiled “The Cave”, an impressive resort-style pool and lounge. “The Cove” is a community center.
The team of architects and interior designers at AO took inspiration from California’s captivating terrain, the ancient art forms and the natural world. These influences came together to create a poolside retreat that is both a place for social gatherings and reconnection.
The Cave pool and lounge is inspired by the Lascaux Cave Museum. The design blends seamlessly into the landscape with earthy textures and sharp angles. It creates an otherworldly and serene atmosphere with three open entrances by combining the elements of fire, earth, and water. The cascading water feature on the rock wall mimics a cavern with blue inlay stone, creating an flowing, stream like effect. A custom bar and table radiate out from the center of the space like natural rock formations.
The organic and angular theme extends outdoors where you will find a zero entry pool, and a perforated canopy structure which houses outdoor seating and barbecue facilities. Above The Cave, elevated promenade, winding paths and angled stairs offer vantage points. Green roof elements provide support for the restrooms below.
The Cove is the main community event venue and it has a striking design that follows the geological theme of the park. The Cove features a glass-onyx tower, and large entrances on either side that lead to an expansive event lawn. A stunning custom table meticulously crafted and designed by Jeremy Elkins from Untreated Art serves as a captivating center piece. The interior is completed by thoughtfully arranged seating areas and a fully-equipped kitchen.
Richard Clarke, AIA partner at AO, says, “We are grateful that our partners FivePoint allowed us to use our creativity to design something unique in the heart of Solis Park Community.” Our goal, working closely with Brightview’s landscape design team, was to create an area that would establish a strong sense of community identity, enchantment and encourage social interaction. I think Solis Park is everything we wanted and more.
