House acarsaid

[Currently in construction]

Along the northern shores of Antigonish Harbour, House Acarsaid undergoes a transformative renovation to accommodate the evolving needs of its occupants. Originally a modest two-story dwelling, the project expanded with the addition of a third floor, strategically reconfiguring interior spaces to provide generous living areas while embracing the southern views of the harbour.

A cornerstone of the project was the pursuit of programmatic clarity; a goal heightened by the recognition that one of the primary users is on the autism spectrum. This emphasis on clarity drove an exploration of the relationships between materiality, volume, and form, with the goal of creating a serene and cohesive flow throughout the internal spaces, where every sight-line, material quality, and spatial volume contributes to a sense of tranquility and purposeful design. These design principles also informed the outward expression of the project, resulting in three distinct yet harmonious volumes, supported by a stereotomic platform. 

The renovation of House Acarsaid is not merely a functional upgrade; it is a testament to the art of thoughtful design. By pairing practical considerations with aesthetic harmony, the project goes beyond its purpose to become a reflection of its natural surroundings. Each design decision, from the selection of materials to the configuration of spaces, was made with careful consideration of the home's coastal context.

Beyond addressing the immediate needs of its inhabitants, House Acarsaid embodies a deeper ethos—one that celebrates the intersection of human habitation and the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Through its careful planning and execution, the renovated home emerges as an anchor of refuge, inviting occupants to connect with both their environment and one another.

Architecture and Design: Peter Braithwaite Studio Ltd. (Peter Braithwaite, Lucien Landry, Olivia Raposo)

Construction: VanOirschot Builders Inc.

Structural Engineering: Blackwell Structural Engineering

Physical Model: Jam Basilio

Drawings: Peter Braithwaite, Lucien Landry