At the end of a long and winding driveway through the forest, White Rock is perched above a steep rocky incline overlooking the north bank of the Gaspereau River Valley. White Rock was designed as an escape – not in the traditional sense of a cottage but as an opportunity for solitude high above the valley floor with expansive views above the tree line. The simple form with deliberate, carefully positioned openings is inspired by traditional hunting cabins and duck blinds hidden in the dense forest. The bedrooms are both minimal and raw – lined entirely in smoked oak with raw steel shelving and wall-mounted industrial light fixtures. The bathroom is restrained, lined in a gray terracotta tile with simple stainless steel fixtures to accompany the stainless steel wall-mounted vanity. A full wall of glazing blurs the line between interior and exterior, creating the illusion of showering completely submersed in the surrounding forest. the second floor is expansive and bright. A massive window set within a large cantilevered corten steel hoop wraps the southeast corner, with raw steel benches to sit and take in the view. A wood-burning fireplace anchors the east wall with an antique Arne Norell lounge chair and furniture by Luca Nichetto and Montauk creating a spectacular setting for one or a small group. Along the west wall, the kitchen is composed of a simple series of protruding stainless steel shelves and a bank of stainless steel millwork. A corten steel roof hatch provides access to the rooftop, providing a secluded respite for dining and resting amongst a collection of Japanese maple trees with views across the tree canopy of the Gaspereau Valley below.
This house is spectacular. Moody and restrained, majestically capturing the beauty of the landscape. How could you not relax when retreating here? By Omar Ghandi Architects. Photos: Ema Peter Photography.
This Victorian terrace renovation designed by Kitty Lee Architecture unfolded over three summers, guided by heritage constraints and a focus on design harmony. Bathrooms were refreshed within the existing footprint, while stage two introduced a spacious, light-filled kitchen seamlessly linking indoor and outdoor areas. Inspired by a Marrakesh holiday, the palette highlights the client’s vibrant ceramics. Timber, brick, concrete and brass accents infuse warmth and texture, creating a joyful, playful atmosphere throughout the redesigned spaces.
Photography by The Palm Co.
Modern and minimal, dramatic yet approachable, with ethnic touches and the pièce de résistance – a courtyard space to allow for privacy in a city setting. This is magical! Designed by Mohon Interiors; Styling: Adam Fortner; Architect: Chas Architects; Photos: Lisa Romerein.
A House to Gather, by Melbourne-based architectural firm Sibling, is a warm and efficient extension designed for a young couple known for their generous hospitality. Built on a modest site and budget, the project transforms a narrow workers cottage into a vibrant space for hosting 2 to 30 guests. The design prioritizes natural light, open space, and connection to the outdoors. With colourful joinery, custom tiles, skylights, and clever spatial planning, the home reflects the couple’s joyful spirit and love of sharing meals.
Photography by Christine Francis.
This may be a simple home consisting of essentially a box with a gabled roof, but the beauty is in the simplicity of it. A burnished stucco exterior, metal roof, Douglas fir framed windows, and a central double height living space make it feel grand and soooo bright and airy. I loooove the large steel trellis added at the back of the house for some much needed shade. Modern, minimal and really cool. Designed by Side Angle Side for photographer Casey Dunn (his photos, obviously).