Page 83 - Designing Ways 281

Dove: A “Cottage in

the City”

Toronto, Canada

ove is a series of interconnected pavilions in the landscape.
The 5,000 square-foot, L-shaped home is at its peak a space
Dfor dining, transiting into a low living space. Each room is
independently situated and connected to multiple inner routes, so
each main space becomes a destination. The experience of moving
through the project is envisioned as a walk through Ontario woods
and meadows. The heart of the home wraps around back-to-back
fireplaces within monolithic concrete trunks. Natural light occurs
through glimpses, washing walls, and reflecting off surfaces.

This project employs a concept of environmental stewardship that
is often overlooked. Enduring materials that will embrace time were
chosen throughout the home. The goal of connectedness is to produce
lasting empathy and a sense of belonging to the natural world.

Connectivity revealed through the structure
Dove is conceived as a series of interconnected tents or pavilions in
the landscape rather than rooms filling out a governing shell. The
tents orchestrate a succession of surprises. At its peak, a soaring
grand gathering space for dining transits to a low, intimate, fire-lit
living space. Each space is independently situated and connected to
multiple inner routes – conceived as trails - so that each main room

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