House 4249 can be found perched on the precipice of a deep, forested ravine in West Vancouver, British Columbia.
Designed by DGBK Architects, this residence follows the conventions of the modern residence and stands proudly flaunting white angular geometry and stylish simplicity.
The home’s major characteristic can be seen in its bold geometry composed of overlapping planes which influence the organization of the interior, the functions of the spaces within and the sight lines beyond.
The structural order of the geometry creates a stark contrast between the residence and the chaotic asymmetry of the boulders and outcrops it’s nestled on.
The sloping site presented DGBK Architects with a few challenges that were solved with tactful design and innovative construction methods.
In keeping with its modernist influences, the design of House 4249 exhibits openness and a connection with nature. Its exterior features, that include zinc paneling and generous use of glass, display panoramic views of the gorgeous surroundings, such the coastal waters of the Georgia Strait.
The extensive use of glass also serves to blur the visual and physical boundaries between the interior and exterior. This enables the living spaces to connect with the environment while maintaining their distinct character.
The ground floor of the main volume is dedicated to household activities such as laundry and storage, however the main floor is wide and luminous, and hosts the living, dining, and recreation rooms, as well as a beautiful terrace with a whirlpool.
Most of the rooms on this floor are cut off on the sides, likening them to long corridors with side openings. Coupling this corridor feel with amazing floor-to-ceiling windows allows the brightness of the landscape to seep into the space.
The interior is open and boasts a style that is elegant and modern without seeming extravagant.
The upper floor accommodates an upper living area, such as the kitchen, and the private spaces of the home.
The plan has been configured to fully utilize its high vantage point and offer sweeping ocean vistas from the south and a more intimate view of lush greens on the mountain side of the house.
The boundaries pushed by House 4249 are not only inherent in its design but in its structural composition as well. The project happens to be the first in North America to apply Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) structures in full scale. The design pushed CLT structures to new levels, suspending them and using them in beams, floors, and load bearing walls.
The reliance on CLT technology meant that the building was free to express unsupported planes and bold bi-directional cantilevers that extend farther and thinner than concrete or steel would allow. Also, the pre-fabrication of CLT meant that the structures could be erected in only six days. As a result, using CLT reduced the disturbance on the site as the residence took shape much faster than traditional construction would have taken.
DBGK Architects displayed great attention to detail and willingness to pioneer with new construction methods. Everything about House 4249 speaks to an understanding and respect for the site, from the clean lines, bold form, and brilliant use of space.
In my opinion, House 4249 stands out as an exemplary embodiment of modern design principles and technology. To learn more, take a look at more breathtaking work from DGBK Architects.
The stunning photography is courtesy of Wade Comer Photography.
For more Houseporn articles on modern homes in Vancouver, you can read about the Eppich Studio and the 430 House.
Researched and Written by Yinoluwa Olowofoyeku, Undergraduate Student of Architectural Design at the University of Toronto.
