Wollemi House
A residential infill project for a subdivided pie-shaped lot in Holyrood, Edmonton. The project responds to the unique site constraints to create an open and functional interior space.
Located in the mature neighborhood of Holyrood in Edmonton, the Wollemi House is a two-storey single-family home designed to accommodate a future secondary basement suite. The project is located on a subdivided pie-shaped lot, complete with lane access.
Inspired by its namesake, the Wollemi National Park in Australia, the project highlights the use of natural materials — primarily wood — in both the interior and exterior spaces. The project is designed for a local couple, tuned to their specific needs, lifestyle and future aspirations.
The building is sited on an interior pie-shaped lot previously subdivided by another owner. holo-blok was first engaged by the previous owner to complete a feasibility study for the lands and determine development potential, including the prospect of subdivision. The neighbourhood is densely treed and located across the street from a small pocket park.
The narrow front lot line, paired with the rear lot line’s termination at the corner of an alley, posed challenges for siting the building in regard to zoning regulations. Careful consideration was also given respect the neighbouring properties and preserve existing trees to the greatest extent possible. As a result, the overall footprint of the building tapers to a narrow front facade.
The clients prioritize privacy in their home, as reflected in the landscaping and screening designs; to access the front door, visitors approach the house via a meandering path through planters and around a front screening.
A unique site shape informs the overall mass of the building, with the tapered mass divided into three parts. The base is a heavy plinth mass of cementitious material which serves to ground the house. Two tapered masses placed upon the plinth cantilever out to the exterior screening elements to create a recessed, covered and private entrance. As two contrasting forms, the cantilevering masses highlight the more natural wood material which speaks back to the namesake of the project: the Wollemi pine.
The clients’ unique lifestyle has informed all aspects of the home, with particular care taken to promote privacy not only externally, but throughout the interior. The entrance foyer obscures views of the rest of the house to ensure privacy for the occupants from any casual visitors. Once beyond this private threshold, one enters the heart of the home: an open living, kitchen and dining area. Integrated millwork not only unifies this heart into a single space, but functions to provide storage solutions and concealed workspaces.
The design employs transom windows to maximize privacy while still allowing ample light to penetrate inside. This natural light accentuates the contrasting dark millwork and light wood throughout, which speaks to the materiality approach taken with the exterior design. The second floor features a large master suite, guest bedroom and reading room. Soft, clerestory light augments these lofted spaces to create sanctuary for the residents’ individual activities.
holo-blok Team
External Team
