This house wows people from the moment they drive through the front gate. There are many extraordinary details to be admired between the gate itself and the custom pool in the lakefront yard.
The uniquely prepared steel gate has an inset of eastern hemlock within metal channels that gives it an interlocked look. This custom gate is anchored by flanking exposed concrete walls which match the same exposed concrete walls within the inside and outside of the house. These walls were created with commercial form work, with a pattern that pleased the owner’s eyes.
The clients knew exactly how they wanted to welcome guests into their house: through a pivot door. We worked on the structure and the technicalities of making the framework for that, too. Throughout the project, we were present to coordinate any construction technicalities, ensure custom wall design, and exterior glazing.
This client was all about bringing together friends and family, and a gathering point they chose was the fireplace in the great room. Another such spot was the backyard, which has a custom hot tub that sits next to a custom pool, which can be covered with an automated retractable cover for harsh sunny days.
The homeowners had a clear vision for their home: exposed concrete, natural wood elements, and large glass panels to let in bright light. Fitting the electrical into the concrete walls was a challenge as well as making sure the lighting was stylishly recessed within the floors, and fireplaces would fit in with the edgy style of the house.
To use exposed concrete inside and outside the house, we worked closely with the form company to identify the panels that would be put together in interesting configurations. Planning the electrical power and lighting into the concrete walls had to be done with acute skill so everything could work in harmony. We conceived the entire electrical layout and worked onsite with the plumber, the HVAC company, and the electrician to bring it all together perfectly.
The main exterior finish is made from black fibre cement panels. We mapped a precise arrangement so the panels could be cut offsite, then delivered and installed easily.
To make the fireplaces an attraction, we created each one with an unusual appeal. The one on the patio, by the hot tub, is see-through. The one in the dining room is recessed into the floor and works off ethanol. That means no ventilation necessary.
We connected with Dark Tools, a local architectural lighting distributor, to illuminate the entire house with recessed floor lights. But of course nothing beats the natural light pouring in through the huge glass windows that encase this unique house.
I worked with Sketch on the design of my home, and their work is extremely professional, on time, creative and they think outside the box. 5 star rating. Highly recommend this team.