Share to
HM! Residence
By : TERGOS Architecture + Construction
GRANDS PRIX DU DESIGN – 17th edition
Discipline : Architecture
Categories : Residential Building / Private House > 2 000 pi2 (> 185 m2) : Gold Certification
Designed for a young couple and their growing family, this residence is the result of sustained efforts and adeptly overcome constraints both in architectural design and on-site realization. From the initial meetings, the goal was clear; to build a nature-inspired house! A treehouse, modest in size, and adapted to the active lifestyle of the clients. The ideal mandate, just like the wooded, mountainous terrain by the lake.
The first challenge arose precisely from this magnificent site, consisting mainly of steep areas and a small strip that was truly buildable. The shape of the house, long and narrow, is a direct response to this available space.
Almost invisible from the street, the approach to the house is from above and on the narrow side, contributing to the effect of discovery and intimacy. The residence is articulated in 2 volumes, the first rising over 2 levels while the second, in the background, is cantilevered, with storage and outdoor workshop space below. The living areas are located on the upper floor, providing a real sense of living in nature, among the trees literally. Despite the steep slope of the terrain and the north orientation of the lake, the layout of the living areas maximizes sunlight. Even the corridor to the sleeping areas is generously windowed, with views of the treetops and rocky outcrops. On the lower level, a large mudroom caters to the active lifestyle, and a dormitory accommodates guests in a family-friendly spirit, without building unnecessary space. Finally, a large covered terrace, with a kitchen area, is a true extension of the living areas outdoors.
The materiality, all wood, with two neutral colorations, benefits both the reading of the clean volumes, their integration into nature, and the sustainable development objectives of the project. This natural materiality is also integrated indoors, where wooden accents are thoughtful, and concrete floors provide thermal mass and comfort. The entire envelope exceeds insulation and sealing standards, an essential element considering our climate and the longevity of our constructions.
Other more technical aspects also guided the design and realization, including the multiple constraints of steep slope areas and construction in watersheds. A challenge met by building above ground, without foundations or basement, but on concrete slabs. Site respect was essential: no blasting, limited backfill, maximum tree conservation, and restoration to vegetation. Constraints that benefited the ‘floating’ design in nature and environmental values.
Structurally, the original form was erected using a hybrid system of lightweight wooden framing and steel elements. The installation of this structure on-site was brilliantly orchestrated considering the limited delivery space, scaffold installation, their verticality, all without the possibility of a crane! Everything was brought and installed by the team.
Finally, the HM! residence, a reference for the clients to Hakuna Matata, represents well the family motto and the challenges overcome to realize this unique project: there is no insurmountable problem, let’s not worry, and now, let’s enjoy life!
Collaboration
