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Perched on the Top of a Cape of Rock
By : Stuart Webster Design
GRANDS PRIX DU DESIGN – 17th edition
Discipline : Landscape & Territories
Categories : Landscape Architecture / Landscape Architecture - Private Residence : Gold Certification
Perched on the top of a cape of rock
This residential landscape project is located by a lake in the countryside.
The 3.7-acre property provides a difference in altitude of approximately 65 feet between its access entrance point and the lake shore, offering a potential of interesting views on the landscape. The topography is sinuous and reveals a few rock outcrops. The developed part of the property is outlined by the forest and the lake.
The owners have been living there for a few years and have acquired a good knowledge of the property’s pros and cons. Over time, changes related to family, work and other aspects of their lives created the need to rebuild the house and change the landscaping to better suit their current needs.
The design development of the architecture and landscaping was done in parallel in order to optimize their integration into the natural environment.
Low profile structures stepping down the hill side emerged from this process, at times capturing the views over the landscape and others, nesting behind the tall trees for privacy.
The material palette was limited to just a few selections. The choices were based on textures and colours that would integrate with the natural materials present on site. Both architecture and landscaping projects were tied together through the use of the same materials. Stone and wood were the dominant materials, with planting tying it all in to the natural environment.
A driveway leads to the house. The lawn surrounding it has been reinforced with a structural grid to allow for occasional parking without blocking the way. The driveway loops around a mound that allows drivers to easily leave the property. A pergola located in front of the garage door uses the mound as a support by resting on the bedrock face.
New trees and shrubs were arranged in a way that would try to replicate nature. Plants were also installed on a few roofs to blend the building in the natural setting.
A reinforced lawn alley allows maintenance crews to drive down to the backyard on board of vehicles.
The existing pool and spa were kept and refurbished. The main terrace has the same dimension as the previous one but is now solely devoted to relaxation, meaning the dining area has been relocated further up on another terrace near the kitchen.
Tiered planting beds create a transition between the different levels. The plants tie the built structures and the landscape all together.
Moving forward, there is a staircase that leads down to another terrace below. Within the wood surface, the stone pavers delimit the space where people will gather. The circle suggests the shape that the gatherings will naturally take place around the fire pit. The Corten steel fire feature colour blends well with the stone and wood shades. Another staircase located nearby allows to gain access to the lake below.
Three small accessory buildings were built on that terrace. They house respectively a sauna, a washroom and a changing room with an outdoor shower.
Beyond the terrace is a path leading to a long stone staircase. The steps lead to different rooms located in the basement and the first floor. A stone wall delineates a septic field. The structures and natural environment are all tied together through the vegetation.
Collaboration
