Elm Street Residence / James K.M. Cheng Architects

Elm Street Residence / James K.M. Cheng Architects - HandrailElm Street Residence / James K.M. Cheng Architects - Windows, Door, Facade, GardenElm Street Residence / James K.M. Cheng Architects - Door, Windows, Facade, Chair, Patio, CourtyardElm Street Residence / James K.M. Cheng Architects - Stairs, HandrailElm Street Residence / James K.M. Cheng Architects - More Images+ 20

Vancouver, Canada
More SpecsLess Specs
Elm Street Residence / James K.M. Cheng Architects - Door, Windows, Facade, Chair, Patio, Courtyard
© Ema Peter

Text description provided by the architects. Elm Street is dominated by very mature evergreen trees and high garden hedges, so much so that the residential architecture on the street becomes secondary in prominence.  The west side of the street also contains unusually deep lots, just under 350 feet in length, with no lane access at the rear. As such, the properties offer design opportunities & challenges not available on more typical residential lots in the city.

Elm Street Residence / James K.M. Cheng Architects - Stairs, Facade, Glass, Handrail
© Ema Peter

This particular property is one of these deep lots with clusters of tall evergreen trees, both within the site and on the neighbouring properties, some close to 100 ft. in height.  The site depth and the mature trees are the main influences on the design of the house. The 343 ft. long lot allows the house to be stretched apart into living space pavilions that open up to and integrate with the natural setting, while breaking down the building mass. The simple lines and natural materials are intended to create a quiet backdrop to the overwhelmingly established natural setting of the site and neighbouring lots.
 

Elm Street Residence / James K.M. Cheng Architects - Stairs, Handrail
© Ema Peter
Site Plan
Elm Street Residence / James K.M. Cheng Architects - Image 8 of 25
© Ema Peter

The house’s massing consists of single and double storey components straddling a central glass-enclosed circulation spine. The components are separated by garden courtyards and anchored to the site by three feature chimney walls. The house is set low on the property with the main floor level only a foot above the existing entrance grade.  This eases the connection between interior and exterior spaces.  Exterior terrace platforms become an extension of the living spaces into the surrounding garden. The pool is sited as a water court to the family room and main bedroom above.

Elm Street Residence / James K.M. Cheng Architects - Windows, Facade, Deck, Handrail
© Ema Peter
Section
Elm Street Residence / James K.M. Cheng Architects - Handrail
© Ema Peter

Utilizing a subtle palette of natural materials, the finishes are a combination of horizontal wood cladding, glass and architectural concrete.  The architectural concrete finish on the three feature ‘chimney’ walls is expressed both inside and outside to further emphasize the connection to the exterior.

Elm Street Residence / James K.M. Cheng Architects - Windows, Door, Facade, Garden
© Ema Peter

The overall site landscape treatment is intentionally subtle, allowing the existing tall trees to remain dominant and frame the outdoor spaces.  

Elm Street Residence / James K.M. Cheng Architects - Windows, Facade
© Ema Peter

Project gallery

See allShow less
About this office
Cite: "Elm Street Residence / James K.M. Cheng Architects" 13 Oct 2016. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/794097/elm-street-residence-james-km-cheng-architects> ISSN 0719-8884

You've started following your first account!

Did you know?

You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.