Stoufville (2007)

Oak Ridges Moraine
Ontario

As parents of a young family, the clients were seeking an environmentally sustainable design of their family home consistent with their twenty-five acre property located on the environmentally sensitive boundary of the Oak Ridges Moraine.  The home would be part of the ecosystem, sheltered by the woodlands and overlooking the tall prairie grasses and reeds of the nearby kettle lake.   They wanted their three sons and their friends to be able to explore the terrain that was as varied as their imaginations and return to a home that respected its environs and provided a secure nest.

Despite the large acreage of the property, a suitable location for the actual dwelling placement was challenged by the requirement that there be a 33 meter set back from all significant natural habitats as woods, wetlands and ponds. However, the environmental features of the home including a green roof, solar power, rain water management with run-off controls and a new wildlife corridor provided a regional example of future housing that was appropriated for sensitive natural areas.

Within a multi-level concept, the home follows the natural site gradients.  The green home relies on its passive solar design for the majority of its energy needs.  The oversized green roof undulates with overhanging extremities that cantilever five feet beyond the enclosing walls to provide shade. The 4300 square foot main level residence follows a fan-shaped plan that traces the sun’s path beginning with the bedrooms in the east and finishing with the dining area in the southwest. The screened windows and porches are recessed to protect them from the elements of snow, rain and the hot summer sun. The southern fenestration creates a variety of spaces both in and outside.  As well, it forms a three sided wind sheltered exterior courtyard for outdoor living amid the vines and flora.

GREEN ROOF ASSEMBLY

yields savings on energy to heat and cool the house
provides a longer lifespan of waterproof membrane
the rooftop garden enhances enjoyment of the home
plants help limit water runoff that otherwise would wash pollutants into lake

Roof Composition –1” polystyrene insulation protects water membrane underneath. In addition a membrane with holding cups, retains rainwater. A drainage cloth with 5” soil is deep enough  to support perennials and varieties of sedum, which have shallow root systems. 

Landscaping - Eventually, the entire house is to be completely enveloped in Honey Suckle, Virginia creeper and Grape vines. Thus enclosing the house in the shade in the summer, while in the winter, the vegetative fiber (stalks) creates a microclimate that prevents high winds from literally touching the walls.


all projects