Awards.

Sommarhus

This expansion of an 1980s house into a multigenerational home demonstrates that quality architecture can be accessible to all. It offers a reflection on how to make use of unused space in aging homes to increase density while promoting collaboration between families and access to home ownership.

From an ecological standpoint, adding 600 sq. ft. to the existing 1,200 sq. ft. minimized resource use compared to a new house and maximized space utilization so that the two families could be independent while sharing common areas. The location of the addition was designed according to passive solar principles, without affecting the amount of sunlight entering the existing house: most of the windows face south, the floor is a thermal mass that retains the sun's heat, and the proportions of the house promote natural cross ventilation. An existing mature linden tree was used to regulate the amount of sunlight entering the south side of the house, as well as to enhance the atmosphere by beautifully marking the changing seasons.

On a social level, thoughtful planning of indoor and outdoor spaces allows for shared activities related to the home and property, while promoting intergenerational exchanges that have a proven positive effect on mental and physical health. Aesthetically, the shape, exterior cladding, and fenestration of the addition were designed to harmonize with the existing home while giving it a contemporary identity.

In terms of construction, local wood was favoured because it acts as a carbon sink. It can be found in the structural framing, built-in furniture, and interior finishes in white pine and exterior finishes in cedar. Reused local furniture and materials were also featured in various parts of the project, such as the ceiling, whose boards came from a 125-year-old barn located nearby. In addition to wood, we favoured the use of recycled or renewable materials, such as hemp insulation and recycled wood fiber panels. The increased amount of insulation reduces energy consumption, most of which comes from a photovoltaic system that was planned with the expansion and optimized for the site and the view of the river.