Silver Heights

[Currently under construction]

Known for its outdoor activities, the topography and natural beauty of Trent Hills offered clear architectural guidance for this project. This region of Ontario is characterized by rolling hills that have been divided into a patchwork of Carolinian forests, sprawling farmland and scenic waterways. Positioned near the apex of one of these hills, Silver Heights perfectly frames these awe-inspiring views.

Maximizing the physical and visual connectivity to the surrounding landscape were key principles for the young family and subsequently, the architecture serves as both viewing platform and resting place. Visitors begin their journey along a meandering path through the trees, up a corten-clad entry hoop and stair, down along a view-focused corridor which culminates at partially raised platform, maximizing their feeling of connectedness to the land.

The main volume boasts a contemporary take on a hipped roof and is supported partially upon a stereotomic plinth serving as an extension of the living space found within. The strategic use of vaulted volumes and aperture placements help to bring an abundance of natural light and ventilation throughout the building. The material palette highlights the three distinct elements of the home, the concrete plinth, black metal main living space, and the rusted steel stair and entry hoop. These materials were carefully chosen for their robustness to withstand the unpredictable Ontario climate, while eastern white cedar adds a touch of warmth and soft tactile nature underfoot while users enjoy the exterior patio spaces.

Architecture and Design: Peter Braithwaite Studio Ltd. (Peter Braithwaite, Abby Lawson, Lucien Landry)

Structural Engineering: Blackwell Structural Engineering

Physical Model: Keegan Gray, Jam Basilio

Drawings: Peter Braithwaite, Lucien Landry