#RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE PROJECTS
light-filled counterpoint house by paul raff occupies a narrow plot in suburban toronto
situated on a narrow lot in a leafy toronto neighborhood, ‘counterpoint house’ is a lofty, light-filled home for a family of four.
the dwelling was completed by canadian architect paul raff, whose brief was to design a residence with open, interconnected living spaces imbued with a strong connection to nature. its function and flow facilitate the many family-oriented endeavors the clients sought. at the same time, the unusual split level stepping of its upper floors and bold window openings create a feeling of spaciousness.
natural light is one of the main drivers of the design. the upper levels of the house are set back from the street, allowing a large south-facing clerestory window to flood the center of the house with sunlight. the southern elevation features a sculptural solar reflector screen made up of 220 ‘light shelves’. these horizontal aluminum slats have a high coefficient of reflectivity, and bounce sunlight deep into the space.
‘south light in a northern climate is wonderful for helping heat the house in winter, but can create too high a glare to be comfortable,’ explains architect paul raff. ‘the solar reflector screen solves that, while creating a dynamic play of delicate shadows, which to me is the visual equivalent of harp music.’
wall-to-wall glazing on the ground floor frames a view into the shade garden on the north side of the house. meanwhile, a clerestory window on the upper level illuminates the staircase and master bedroom with soft northern light.
