Reflection and repose

Designed by Brooks + Scarpa

From the architects:

This project is a collaboration between a long-time client and the architect who had designed an award-winning  office space for the famed film director more than 25 years ago.   

After decades of success in the Hollywood limelight, the director and artistic spouse decided to pursue a lifelong dream and return to a more tranquil lifestyle reminiscent of their upbringing around Montreal, Canada.

A pavilion amongst the trees

Located on a wooded 26ha site in the Appalachian foothills near the Eno river around Raleigh Durham, NC, the house is designed as a place of reflection and repose – a pavilion-like structure amongst the trees that connects to the expansive natural setting.  

The simple double gable roofs rise to 9.4m with expanses of glass that allow nature to visually connect to the interior space and help forge a deeper, more meaningful understanding of the relationship between the natural and built environments.

The structure’s reflective glass and black metal exterior gives the building an ever-changing presence during the seasons; receding into the forest‘s dappled light in the summer and winter stalk-like tree structures; and standing out like a beacon with the occasional winter snow, while the natural plywood interior creates a protected and warm gathering place – while preserving the spectacular view into the forest.

The plan is organised around two open gabled volumes for the public and private zones of the house.  

The kitchen/dining area connects the two sides of the house with a transparent lower scaled gallery-like loggia with glass on both sides that feels like a walk in the forest when moving between the two volumes. 

This transitional space divides and connects the two distinct zones of the house while allowing a sense of spaciousness and escape.

Natural connection

Optimising natural light penetration, a profound connection with nature, and use of natural materials, the new home is designed to conserve 98% of the existing 26ha site, while harmoniously coexisting with its natural environment and ensuring minimal disturbance to the natural setting. 

The design seamlessly integrates large windows and strategically placed skylights, bathing interior spaces in natural light and fostering a vibrant connection between indoor living spaces and the outdoor environment. 

This architecture employs natural materials not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their sustainability, enhancing the building's ecological footprint.

Our design reinterprets traditional gable roof forms, which are prevalent in the region. 

By blending traditional elements with modern design principles, the design creates a unique visual language that speaks to both heritage and innovation. 

This approach results in a building that stands in harmony within its natural setting, offering a forward-looking model for sustainable residential design.

Setting a precedent

Benefits go beyond the health and well being of the owners by championing eco-friendly practices that positively impact the wider community. 

Utilising 100% recycled metal and FSC certified wood products, the building sets a precedent for sustainable construction that mitigates environmental harm. 

These materials not only reduce the ecological footprint but also inspire local builders to adopt greener practices, fostering a culture of sustainability within the community. 

Additionally, by showcasing how aesthetically pleasing and functional eco-conscious materials can be, the residence encourages a shift in public perception, promoting environmental stewardship and well-being across the broader societal spectrum.

Ecosystem awareness

The owners have put in place a plan to conserve and restore the site to its natural habitat, supporting regional flora and fauna. 

No irrigation is provided on the site.  

All new plantings foster habitat restoration but also enhance ecological health, setting a benchmark for future development in harmony with nature.

In addition, all stormwater is managed on site. 

Impervious surfaces are directed to on-site filtration while water savings of approximately 38% above average are achieved due to low flow fixtures – equating to substantial cost savings for both utility domestic and sewer water rates with payback time less than one year.

Designed for economy

We prioritised mitigating both initial and long-term costs and the need to have no or low maintenance costs for the future of the building.  

The design is a balance of economy and strategic enhancement.  

The design team worked with the general contractor throughout each design phase to identify opportunities for cost savings while maintaining a high-quality, durable, and sustainable design.  

Building systems were selected for their efficiency and  ease of maintenance.

Energy efficiency

The design incorporates an Energy Star MrCOOL 22.5 SEER  heat pump, a Rheem ProTerra 246L smart heat pump water heater that boasts a 3.85 Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) rating. 

LED lighting is incorporated that consumes at least 50% less energy than standard LED equivalents.

Large windows and skylights maximise natural daylight and cross ventilation, reducing the need for artificial lighting. 

The building is strategically placed to allow existing trees to block direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day, minimising cooling demands.  

High-quality insulation and energy-efficient glazing further reduce energy usage. 

A state-of-the-art energy management system helps optimise energy usage and ensures that equipment operates at its most efficient levels.

Well being

The well-being of the owners is significantly enhanced by a design that's centred around natural light and cross ventilation. 

By maximising the infusion of natural light, the design promotes vitamin D synthesis and regulates circadian rhythms, fostering better sleep and mood. 

Cross ventilation ensures a constant flow of fresh air, reducing the reliance on artificial climate control, and contributing to a comfortable living environment. 

The exclusive use of natural, non-toxic materials eliminates off-gassing, safeguarding the homeowners from harmful chemicals and enhancing indoor air quality – directly benefiting respiratory health and overall well-being.

Sustainable resource

The design includes a strong emphasis on sustainable  material selections to create a durable, safe, and healthy environment, while also addressing equity and minimising negative impacts on the planet.  

The project employs recycled and low-toxicity materials, ensuring a safe and healthy indoor environment for both residents and visitors. The project sources materials from suppliers and manufacturers who adhere to fair labor practices, fostering social responsibility and economic inclusivity.

Landscape restoration 

 In addition to the cutting-edge architectural design of the home, the project undertook a significant ecological restoration effort. 

Almost 8ha of land previously overrun with non-native plant species were cleared and replaced with native flora. 

This transformation not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the property but also fosters a thriving habitat for local wildlife. 

The introduction of native plants such as Eastern Redbud, Wild Bergamot, and Black-eyed Susan provides a rich source of nectar and pollen, attracting a variety of pollinators including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

The ecological restoration has had a profound impact on the local biodiversity. 

Story by: Trendsideas