RISING ABOVE THE LANDSCAPE

Killick Coast House is a carefully sited coastal home that rises above the spruce canopy to frame expansive views of the North Atlantic while remaining grounded within its rugged Newfoundland landscape. Located on the Northeast Avalon Peninsula, the site is defined by dense spruce, exposed rock, dramatic topography, and powerful coastal winds.

The homeowners sought a modest yet refined residence that would prioritize ocean views, energy efficiency, privacy, and a strong connection to the land. Oriented along an east–west axis, the elongated house is positioned among existing trees to preserve vegetation, gain shelter from prevailing winds, and open toward northern ocean views. A protected carport and entry create a buffer from the public street, while the house becomes increasingly open toward the landscape.

Its distinctive wedge-shaped profile rises from a compact footprint to a lofted workspace above the treetops, culminating in 270-degree views of the surrounding coastline. Through disciplined siting, efficient planning, and a form derived directly from its environment, the house transforms the challenges of an exposed coastal site into an architecture of shelter, prospect, and connection to place.

PLANNING AND FUNCTION

The compact plan establishes a clear progression from shared to private spaces. An open kitchen, living, and dining area forms the heart of the main level beneath a sloping wood-clad ceiling, while a tall keyhole portal marks the transition to the primary bedroom, bathroom, and utility spaces. Above, an open office and crafting area takes advantage of the rising roof form and expansive glazing, with a custom wood ladder providing access to a compact guest sleeping loft. This vertical organization accommodates living, working, and hosting within an efficient footprint while creating distinct spatial experiences throughout the home.

BUILT FORM AND TECHNICAL RESOLUTION

A restrained palette of clear-stained wood, exposed concrete, and earthy tile reflects the colours and textures of the surrounding landscape while creating a warm and durable interior. The building envelope responds to the demanding coastal climate with R-30 walls, an R-56 roof, triple-glazed windows, and durable construction suited to exposed conditions. Passive solar orientation, an efficient air-to-water heat pump supplying in-floor radiant heating, and strategically located woodstoves support year-round comfort and reduced energy demand. A skylight introduces diffuse daylight deep into the main living space, while the high-performance envelope allows expansive glazing to frame the landscape without compromising the home’s environmental performance.