Lake Huron House sees local “cabin country” architecture completely reimagined to create a modern family retreat on the banks of one of North America’s five Great Lakes
Taking a contemporary architectural approach, the residence maximises its breath-taking lakeside views, while remaining sensitive to its surroundings and sustainability impact in the extremes of the Canadian climate.
To achieve its statement aesthetic and enhance the beautiful natural setting, one of the key components of the design is the use of glass. Glass not only provides distinct visual features throughout the home, functionally it serves as a robust external surface that plays a vital role in maintaining the building’s energy efficiency.
With many demands on the crucial material, the architects turned to the Pilkington product portfolio, to ensure the perfect glass solution was delivered.
Waterside living with a view
Lake Huron House uses a clean and simple material palette throughout. The ceramic façade tones are intentionally varied and, alongside the glass, they accentuate the distinct elements of the build.
The lake-facing side of the house features a double-height glass wall that maximises natural light in the interior of the building and also offers expansive views towards the lakeside.
Pilkington Suncool™ 70/35 OW T was specified for the project to help bring the outdoors in by creating the perfect balance of natural light, while minimising solar heat gain. Having an eye on sustainability was key, and this specification delivers excellent thermal properties that can help reduce the homes energy consumption.
By combining the Pilkington Suncool™ coating with extra clear true low iron Pilkington Optiwhite™, it ensures that the neutral appearance does not spoil the beautiful views of the landscape and creates a bright and airy internal living space.
The glazing ensures that the occupants can enjoy the vistas and are comfortable all year round, while reducing the need for constant air conditioning, in turn cutting energy bills and making the home more environmentally friendly.
Michael Carew, North American sales director at CareyGlass, said, “The architect took great care to keep the design unobtrusive and sensitive to its setting, while making an architectural statement.
“It was important that the project played on the surrounding landscape by opening up the building to the outdoors at the same time as providing an excellent energy performance, and that’s exactly what this installation does.”
Jason Eggerton, specification sales manager Pilkington UK, said, “Lake Huron House successfully integrates a number of different glazing properties to ensure energy efficiency while providing endless views of Lake Huron, the second largest of the Great Lakes of North America.
“The project is one-of-a-kind and we’re hugely proud that our glass helps to define the building’s appearance and create an outstanding home.”