Situated atop the east bank of the Elbow River in Calgary, the Britannia Residence was designed to challenge conventional single-family home layouts, particularly the separation of private and public zones. Our core concept involved reinterpreting the traditional front porch idea for a contemporary context. This allows the main living areas to fully capture western light and views while seamlessly connecting to exterior living spaces at both the front and rear of the home, effectively integrating the house with its sloped site and surrounding landscape.

Architecturally, this concept is expressed through a single-loaded arrangement for the primary open spaces – living, dining, and kitchen; maximizing their exposure through extensive floor-to-ceiling glazing and direct access to terraces. These areas benefit from the prominent western orientation. Private zones, such as bedrooms, are strategically placed along an opposing axis. This placement ensures privacy while granting them uninterrupted natural light and privileged access to the more secluded rear yard, creating a clear functional separation within the overall design.

The resulting interior is characterized by spacious, light-filled volumes with strong visual and physical connections to the outdoors. Wood floors and ceilings bring warmth, contrasted by clean lines and materials like stone feature walls and large expanses of glass. By rethinking the standard layout and prioritizing connections to light, views, and landscape, the Britannia Residence offers a unique living experience that fluidly integrates open entertaining areas and distinct private retreats within a cohesive modern structure.