Approached to design two mountain retreats for skiers outside of Sarajevo, Fo4a Architecture extracted ancient traditions in to a tiny modern shelter, just 24 sq.m. In homage to the cherished and now rare Bosnian village, the contemporary wood framed building represents the typical old home structure. Continue reading →

In a suburb of Melbourne, MAKE architecture expanded a family home brilliantly. The unusual roof lines that form the M actually mimic the original home’s double hip roofs. A flat roof section connects the new addition to the initial building. The minimal modern extension is sized to maintain as much garden space as possible. Facing south, it is also designed to capture northern light year round and shelter the interiors from the blazing summer sun. That’s a tall order and one fulfilled through the use of deep overhangs, high glazing, and sheltered courtyards. Continue reading →

The prefabricated Vipp Shelter is a getaway like no other. It not only sweeps you away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It eliminates the thousands of decisions required when creating your very own escape. Well, you will have to determine where you would like it to be placed….woods, mountains, seaside, desert. Continue reading →

At last, photovoltaic (PV) panels are available in colors other than deep blue and black. PV panels collect solar energy and turn it in to electrical power. Deep blue and black absorb the most sun light and make the panels more effective and efficient. However, these color limitations, along with other challenges such as high cost, have mostly relegated them to discreet locations, typically roof tops. Continue reading →

In an inner city suburb of Montreal that’s rich with historic homes, a new home blends remarkably well. Neo-gothic and arts and crafts style neighbors use ornate asymmetry as their defining elements. The modern house, designed by Affleck de la Riva architects, is like their spirited young offspring. Continue reading →

A 20-year-old cottage in Ontario is brought in to the 21st century. Altius architecture designed an addition to the lakeside cottage that doubles its size, views, and versatility. Continue reading →

A 1960s Montreal residence is stretched in to the 21st century with mid-century lines. Thellend Fortin Architectes added a wealth of living space and light to the formerly one-level home. Notched in to the steep site, the two-story expansion is grounded by a contemporary limestone-sheathed gym. Outside, the narrow walk, pool, and terrace are clad in limestone. A wooden terrace and planter box wall add warmth, interest in their varying levels, and privacy. Continue reading →

Outside Vienna is a home that utilizes the challenges of the site and lofty energy goals to create dynamic responsive architecture. Juri Troy Architects designed the house as part of Velux’s Pan European model home 2020 project. Six different homes are being built using varying methods of sustainable design and living. Continue reading →

Surrounded by traditional clay tiled Japanese homes, this contemporary hillside house stands out with its clever geometry. And that interplay of form and light serves a purpose inside and out. Daylight, views, and privacy were paramount to the young client family. To achieve these goals, FORM / Kouichi Kimura Architects pushed and pulled surfaces and volumes around carefully selected vistas. Continue reading →

Skilled manipulation of simple wooden boxes creates a home that emanates Japanese simplicity and flexibility. Keisuke Kawaguchu + K2 Design created a modern home derived from centuries of proven Japanese architectural elements. The house makes the most of the natural environment while maintaining a calm privacy. Continue reading →