丨加拿大多伦多丨StudioAC

Architects:StudioAC

Area:2800ft²

Year:2021

Photographs:Doublespace Photography

Manufacturers:Fisher & Paykel,Cliffstone,Unik Parquet

Construction:Whitaker Construction

Category:Houses

Team:Yu Chu Su, Jennifer Kudlats, Andrew Hill

Millwork:Cabinetlab

Steel:Urban Steel Products

City:Toronto

Country:Canada

Text description provided by the architects. Located in a suburban neighborhood of Toronto, the design of this family home is guided by the presence of a large willow tree on the site. Rather than conforming to the orientation of the typical suburban fabric of the area, the home prioritizes the tree as a primary feature. The design consists of three simple rectangular volumes that are rotated to accommodate the tree's root system, respond to the site boundaries, and provide ample natural light to the interior spaces.

Inside, the design responds to the unique characteristics of each volume, considering their solar orientation, views, privacy, and access. The west volume, oriented toward the backyard and the willow tree, captures evening light and contains the dining and living spaces on the first level, with the primary bedroom on the second.

The east volume, facing the street and morning light, houses a family den on the first level and the children's bedrooms on the second. The central volume accommodates the house's entries, staircase, and kitchen, which connect to both the living spaces and the backyard. A generous light well extends from the roof to the first level, introducing natural light into the otherwise enclosed central volume.

On the exterior, a light grey stucco finish complements the restrained massing of the design, while wood-framed windows provide a contrasting element, adding warmth to the otherwise minimal façade. An aluminum canopy extends along the east and west sides of the house, offering both entry coverage and solar shading.

In the backyard, a two-tiered deck abuts the base of the willow tree, and the language of the aluminum canopy extends into a pergola, providing a covered outdoor space.

The design aims to balance the site's constraints with the client's functional needs to create a harmonious integration of architecture and landscape. The intention is to offer a residence that respects its natural surroundings while providing a comfortable and well-lit family living environment.

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