Dunkirk Residence

About the Project

This house, designed for a young couple and their family, occupies a south-facing river lot adjacent to Winnipeg’s Red River. Development of the site included demolition of an existing residence and extensive work to address the long-neglected riparian landscape. Showcasing stunning river views from all levels of the terraced massing, the design incorporates a blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces that extend into the landscape.

The design of the residence was influenced by its historical river lot location adjacent to the site of the former Winnipeg Canoe Club. The owners, having grown up as members of the club, felt a strong affinity to its history. The new residence takes cues from the modernist clubhouse that was demolished in 2007.

Design & Features

Programmatically, the residence comprises three “hinged” and tiered boxes, characterized as “living,” “family,” and “sleeping” blocks. These volumes mediate the needs for domestic privacy, a relationship to the public street, and a connection to the surrounding landscape.

The intersecting volumes include a two-storey central axis that acts as a visual connector and circulation hub for the dining, living, and family areas on the main floor. This zone also provides access to the basement and discreetly separates the master bedroom and children’s bedrooms on the second floor.

Sustainable Strategies

• High-performance glazing
• Natural ventilation
• South-facing overhangs
• High levels of insulation
• In-floor radiant heating

The palette of interior finishes consists of natural and sustainable materials, including Tyndall stone, oiled white oak flooring and wall panels, exposed concrete, and zero-VOC painted drywall.

Project Details

Client: Undisclosed
Type: Residential
Date of Completion: Summer 2017
Area: 4,000 sq.ft. (370 s.m.)

Consultant Team

• Prime Consultant: 1x1 architecture inc.
• Structural: Wolfrom Engineering Ltd.
• Mechanical: Epp Siepman Engineering Inc.
• Photography: Lisa Stinner-Kun