Foothills retreat

This is a conceptual design for a house on a wooded site in the Alberta foothills.

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It is a beautiful property with a south-facing slope and dramatic views over a rolling natural landscape.  However, a set of exacting building envelope restrictions leaves only a narrow strip of land available for a house, with a strict height limit. 

 

Demanding restrictions can inspire creative solutions, and this design shows what can be done to provide a spacious, inviting home within the allowed envelope.

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The upper floor features an open plan which opens onto a large covered deck.  All of the major spaces - living room, kitchen, dining room and master bedroom - have vaulted ceilings and panoramic windows to take advantage of the light and view.

 

The lower floor is set into the slope so as to respect the height limit, but the south-facing rooms open onto a broad paved terrace with a wood fireplace.