May House

Entering the May House evokes a sense of prospect and refuge. Designed to be both 'in' and 'of' the landscape, the house choreographs the site, negotiating the gentle grade between land and sea. Triple glazed curtainwall and large overhangs simultaneously direct the gaze and shield the summer sun while supporting a passive solar strategy. Untreated torrefied wood boards and stone cladding ensure the long-term durability of the home. These materials also reveal the passage of time as they gently grey in the salt air to mark another Nova Scotian summer.

The plan is divided into dwelling and utility areas. The interior features a thick band of storage along the entry side of the home. Pantry, office, den, and laundry are all part of this service zone while the main bedroom and living space look out to sea. The stone hearth and terrace extend from inside to outside to connect with the site and expand the home’s livable area, while the large overhangs protect from precipitation and summer sun.

The primary steel structure of this home is designed to disappear so that the occupants can enjoy unobstructed views and access to the site. Similarly, the frames of the curtainwall slip out of view so that all is left is landscape, ocean, and sky.

The home was designed through extensive consultation and collaboration among the owners, builder, engineers, and architect. Similarly, to the shared design process, the thoughtful siting of this house within its landscape along with the use of local building materials reconcile this dwelling and owner with the genius loci—the spirit of the place.