Project posted by Gillian Thomson

Old Strathcona House

Year
2019
Structure
House (Single Residence)
Style
Modern
View from laneway
View from laneway
Garage suite stairway is a focal point in the backyard
Garage suite stairway is a focal point in the backyard
View of front at night
View of front at night
View of back patios at night
View of back patios at night
Timeless and clean kitchen with stunning millwork
Timeless and clean kitchen with stunning millwork
Millwork throughout the main floor
Millwork throughout the main floor
Living room with sunlight filtering in
Living room with sunlight filtering in
The owner's love of woodwork is on display throughout the home
The owner's love of woodwork is on display throughout the home
Details make the statement, including this custom designed pocket door handle
Details make the statement, including this custom designed pocket door handle

Details

Square Feet
2450
Lot Size
35' x 145'
Smart Home Tech
Nest

Credits

Architect
Rockliff Pierzchajlo Kroman Architects
Landscape Design
Design North
Builder
The House Company
Photographer
Adam Borman

From Gillian Thomson

Understated isn’t often the word used to describe the custom home of an architect, but this residence is just that. Deftly inserted into a mature neighbourhood, Old Strathcona House isn’t trying to be ostentatious. It’s a bespoke and empathetic neighbour, which leads to a sense of purposeful character.

Light wood and abundant daylight are intentionally the most noticeable features. The main floor’s domestic layout and scale are counterbalanced with heated concrete floors and stunning millwork throughout. The owner/designer’s love of woodwork is on full display. White oak, maple, and hemlock room dividers act as fixed furniture that define spaces without disconnecting light and people. The timeless kitchen is subtle and clean.

Statements are made in the details: custom-designed pocket door handles, carefully-positioned room dividers, and a sculptural staircase in the backyard. Living spaces extend outdoors with covered decks at grade and on the upper floor, both with wood clad ceilings enhancing the connection between indoors and outside.

The east-west orientation of the home allows morning and evening light to fill the home while taking in views of the property’s landscape and adjacent ravine. The south side of the house harnesses solar energy with photovoltaic panels integrated into the exterior expression. A complementary detached garage offers additional space with an upper suite that maximizes ravine views.