What was the brief?
This home was designed for a family of 4 that had been living abroad and had recently returned to Canada. Their love for the beach drew them to the neighbourhood (Westboro, in Ottawa) and the views and easy access to the water drew them specifically to that particular lot. The aim was to create a series of spaces that supported their daily life and provide a beach house experience in the city. Ample daylight and opportunities for natural ventilation were essential as was a variety of spaces in which to experience the outdoors. Layered onto this was the mandate to be environmentally responsible - an example for others to follow - and to integrate smart technology.
What were the key challenges?
Many of the initial challenges arose from the site itself - the shape of the lot (triangular) as well as the restrictions imposed by both neighbourhood design overlays and conservation authorities resulted in more compact footprint than originally anticipated in a small angular portion of the property. This, paired with the desire for light and air throughout, lead to the use of variable-height volumes and vaulted spaces to bring in daylight and cross-breezes. The desire to achieve LEED Platinum standard also drove the team to research every material, every fixture, every mechanical component to understand the overall implications to scoring.
What materials did you choose and why?
Sustainability and minimizing the home’s carbon footprint were at the forefront when making decisions on materials. The clients wanted a home that would be as maintenance-free, using locally-sourced products whenever possible.
Material Used :
1. Facade cladding: Brick, Finesse (Suave, Standard White, 90x390), Brampton Brick
2. Flooring: Hardwood, centuries-old river reclaimed white oak with custom stain, Logs End
3. Doors: Exterior Doors by Fibercraft
4. Windows: Aluminum windows, Triple-glazed high-performance, Alumilex
5. Interior lighting: Custom feature light over stair, Cubie Pendants with custom canopies, Viso
