The Story
This new residence is located on the Ottawa River and is located on a 40′ cliff. The unusual characteristics of the land offered the opportunity to incorporate site elements into the design. The design addresses its environment by incorporating the elevations and the characteristics of the site including the contours of the land, the proximity of the water and the abundance of trees. This modern sustainable lake front home was oriented on the site to take advantage of the naturally existing “fault-line” or natural major drops in the contours of the site. As the Architect’s we wanted the house to “hug” the natural contours of the site and horizontally fit into the natural landscape. We also wanted to create a “beacon” and place mark through the use of a copper cladded tower that would act as a lighthouse on the water. We also incorporated five wide overhangs to shade the large water front windows to reduce solar summer gains but allow for amazing views of the Ottawa River.
