Rising up to 100 meters above the shore, Toronto’s Scarborough Bluffs stretch about 15 km along Lake Ontario.

This geological wonder of sand and clay layers has been described as one of the unique features of North America due to its rich geological record of early life, preserved through fossils of plants and animals.

_{Photograph courtesy of Ben Rahn/A-Frame Inc.}

Designed by Taylor Smyth Architects, ‘House On The Bluffs’ is perched on the Scarborough Bluffs, offering spectacular views of the lake and sky, peeking through towering tree trunks.

The dwelling – which is cleanly composed with geometric and cantilevered design elements – compliments the natural landscape.

Constructed on the existing foundations of the original 1960s house, the new 2,300 square foot contemporary residence was nestled into the existing mature landscaped lot.

_{Photograph courtesy of Ben Rahn/A-Frame Inc.}

From the street, the house is a restrained composition with vertical channel glass windows which provide natural light to the stairs, guest and master washrooms. At the rear, the structure opens up with a 2-storey walls of glass which celebrate the unobstructed vistas.

Photograph courtesy of Ben Rahn/A-Frame Inc.

_{Photograph courtesy of Ben Rahn/A-Frame Inc.}

Along with the massive expanses of glass which connect the landscape to the dwelling, the use of materials like Ontario Algonquin limestone on the front façade and in the interiors create a strong visual connection between indoors and out.

_{Photograph courtesy of Ben Rahn/A-Frame Inc.}

The master bedroom, located at the rear of the house, cantilevers over the lower dining room, creating a playful design and a variety of volumes. This cantilevered bedroom, with an elongated linear skylight that runs its length, allows natural light to penetrate deep into the space between the open living and dining rooms.

House on the Bluffs doesn’t boast its presence into the streetscape but rather speaks volumes with its modern, simple, and uncluttered design.

It is a remarkable testament to how a well-executed site-sensitive design can both be stunning while respecting the existing natural landscape.

And how beautiful to see it glow like an oversized lantern at night!

Check out more by Taylor Smyth Architects HERE.

Researched and Written by Ulama Hassan, undergraduate student at OCAD University in the Environmental Design program.