An architect designs Rockbound to blend into the rocky landscape. Crafted by Omar Gandi Architects, the home is architecturally dynamic – it isn’t just about one thing. As such, Rockbound capitalises on the view towards the water while simultaneously harnessing the calmness of the woods behind the property. In doing this, the architect designs a coastal home in dialogue with both the land and sea.
Located on the Apoptogen Peninsula, Nova Scotia, the beach house has been built on a rocky granite outcrop and sits parallel to the ocean, looking directly across the bay. Built and designed for a couple that wanted room for guests, with areas inside and out for entertaining, the home caters to the clients’ brief in layout and its connection to forest and ocean views. However, the most unique aspect of the residence is that the architect designs the house to blend into the forest and rocks while remaining as unintrusive as possible.
As seen in the house tour, there is a moment of verticality introduced where the staircase rises up to the second level and views to the water are hidden. This design tactic forces the owner and their guests to reorientate themselves as they move deeper into the home. One then arrives at the kitchen and dining room, which is complemented with dramatic views out to the water. From here, the home’s layout moves into the living room and is also all about the view and appreciating the ocean. On the lower levels are the more functional elements of the house, as well as the guest wing, while on the top floor are the office, main bedroom and ensuite. Progressing from the living room to downstairs, the architect designs a large deck that has been covered from the elements to support the clients’ love for entertaining throughout the year. Descending from here, there is a fireplace hidden among the rocks that encourages a deeper connection to land and offers a new perspective of the house and its elevated proportions.
Alongside the home’s decor and interior design elements, the architect designs a residence that considers the extreme natural environment, protecting it from wind, snow, rain, fog and storms through material selections. As such, the beach house becomes a shelter perched atop the landscape. For the exterior material palette, the architect designs the home out of concrete. CorTen steel is used as an accent to tell the story of the different climatic conditions. Eastern White Cedar, which has natural properties to help resist the weather, was also selected for its durability.
As the home is surrounded by rugged nature, the architect designs the home’s exterior to be robust, while the inside is balanced with soft textures. Moreover, warmth was brought in through furniture and fabric selections that impart a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Responding to the changing climate and unique environmental surrounds, Rockbound by Omar Gandi Architects is a deeply considered family home that feels restorative to the soul.
00:00 – Introduction to the Coastal Home
01:50 – The Advantageous Brief
02:11 – A Walkthrough of the Home
03:45 – Sheltering for all Seasons
04:25 – The Exterior Material Palette
06:02 – Proud Moments and Favourite Aspects
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Photography by Pablo Veiga.
Architecture and landscape design by Omar Gandi Architects.
Build by MRB Contracting.
Styling by Jonah Samson.
Structural engineering by Blackwell Structural Engineers.
Filmed and edited by O&Co. Homes.
Production by The Local Production.
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Location: Apoptogen Peninsula, Nova Scotia, Canada
The Local Project acknowledges the traditional territories and homelands of the Indigenous peoples in Canada. We recognise the importance of Indigenous peoples in the identity of our respective countries and continuing connections to Country and community. We pay our respect to Elders, past and present, and extend that respect to all Indigenous people of these lands.
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