Once the slide, stairs, and double-height space were placed, Reflect reviewed a list of the clients’ desired uses within their home. The uses were grouped and assessed in terms of their need for natural light and their embodiment of public or private space. The space for cooking, eating, entertaining, studying, and playing board games is located at the front of the house behind large south-facing windows where it is integrated within the neighbourhood and feels welcoming to guests. Conversely, a secluded space for deep work or impromptu collaborations with a full-wall whiteboard, central tables with integrated power, and a sliding glass panel for connection to the quiet garden is located at the back of the house. Light was less of a priority for the parents’ bedroom and ensuite, so they are situated in the middle of the ground floor, but at the top of the stairs (and with integrated night lights) in case nightmares necessitate a late-night visit. On the lower-level, the three girls‘ bedrooms are in their own zone with two accompanying bathrooms to minimize competition for bathroom time as the girls get older.
The project was an opportunity to design for the contemporary living needs of a large family, within a city where housing is expensive and the desire to access both community and privacy were equally important.
