Dufferin County Residence

Dufferin County, ON

Project Facts

  • Location

    Dufferin County, ON

  • Status

    Completed 2020

  • Size

    7,200 Sq. Ft.

  • Partner

Tucked into the rolling hills of the Niagara Escarpment, this residence enjoys panoramic views of the breathtaking terrain. The two-storey structure sits lightly on the landscape, its extended form and material palette derived from the organic shapes and textures of its surroundings. A continuous ribbon of bronze trim skirts around the building, forming a cantilevered overhang on the north side that reaches out to embrace the natural setting. The bronze ribbon and planted roofscape will transform with the seasons, evolving over time to allow the architecture to meld with the land. 



Transitioning indoors, the interior finishes are understated, complementing large expanses of bird-friendly glazing to establish an atmosphere for rest and relaxation. The hand-carved hemlock ceiling in the main living areas creates an irregular wave pattern that softens the space. Local materials, radiant heating, and geothermal energy support this sustainable building. In the warm seasons, the finished landscape comes alive with wildflowers and field grasses that embrace the home as an extension of the rural context.

Project Facts

  • Location

    Dufferin County, ON

  • Status

    Completed 2020

  • Size

    7,200 Sq. Ft.

  • Partner

Select Awards

  • 2022 – Architecture MasterPrize – Residential Architecture

  • 2023 – Chicago Athenaeum International Architecture Award

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A glass-enclosed outlook at the top of the home serves as a contemplative space to admire the rural setting.

A glass-enclosed outlook at the top of the home serves as a contemplative space to admire the rural setting.

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The landscape design, which incorporates rock that was extracted from the site, helps the architecture blend into its natural surroundings.

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The landscape design, which incorporates rock that was extracted from the site, helps the architecture blend into its natural surroundings.

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HPA collaborated with master woodcarver, Siggi Buhler, to hand-carve pieces of raw hemlock for the ceiling of the main living areas. No two pieces are alike—the flowing organic forms create an irregular wave pattern that draws inspiration from the local landscape.

HPA collaborated with master woodcarver, Siggi Buhler, to hand-carve pieces of raw hemlock for the ceiling of the main living areas. No two pieces are alike—the flowing organic forms create an irregular wave pattern that draws inspiration from the local landscape.

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Select Awards

  • 2022 – Architecture MasterPrize – Residential Architecture

  • 2023 – Chicago Athenaeum International Architecture Award