VUE

to the environment in which it lives. Sharp angles cast tenacious Whistler snows from the either side of the roof, while its foundation establishes a robust building footprint—competent enough to deal with the threatening lateral forces of an intense seismic zone. Inside, contrasting elements of dark and light create disparity, most noticeable in darkened mullions and floors set against white gypsum walls. e main level houses living, dining and kitchen areas in a large, singular space, along with an outdoor deck which all open to embrace the whistling winter air or a soothing summer breeze (depending on the season). Beneath its highest point lies a ri, a vertical fissure offering bright light to the home's deepest parts. From this break, a stairway rises, crossed by a bridge connecting the master suite and study. ese top levels are comprised of composite steel and heavy timber with wood-frame infill. Its lowest level provides ground access, a breach where more intimate spaces exist—housing guest bedrooms, and a second living and service area. A stairway joins this level to an outdoor patio beneath the house, providing perhaps the only level earth on this precipitous site aside from its front door. Down here, rooms are surrounded with slabs and walls forged of concrete, functioning as a thermal mass with the ability to absorb and store heat energy—mitigating temperature swings throughout the structure in any season. e details of its shape can be defined by the amalgamation of monolithic and framed systems—a hybrid creation. Each piece made for a purpose, to make its survival possible. Its existence is no different than our own. VUE ON DESIGN

• Cover