Architectural Overview
Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Whistler, British Columbia, the Whistler Treetop House stands as a testament to innovative design and seamless integration with nature. Crafted by Evoke International Design in 2018, this 3,900 ft² residence caters to the active lifestyle of its inhabitants while embodying the essence of permanent home living.
Family-Centric Design
The homeowners, a family of four, sought to transition from urban living in Vancouver to the serene ambiance of Whistler. Central to the design ethos was the creation of a space that not only accommodates outdoor pursuits but also fosters a sense of enduring domesticity. The heavily sloped site presented a unique challenge, necessitating a harmonious connection between indoor and outdoor spaces across multiple levels.
Multi-Level Integration
Spanning three levels, the house seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings. The lower floor, primarily subterranean, serves as the foundation for the house and garage entry. An expansive glass pivot door welcomes visitors, while a dedicated ski locker area organizes outdoor gear. The main floor hosts family and guest bedrooms, along with a luxurious master suite featuring open views of the mountains and spa amenities.
Sunlit Sanctuary
The upper floor unfolds as a spacious gathering space, bathed in sunlight streaming through south-facing roof gardens. The kitchen, dining, and living areas converge to offer panoramic mountain vistas. Clad in wood paneling reminiscent of traditional log homes, the living space exudes a cozy mountain retreat ambiance. A wood-burning stove adds warmth and character, paying homage to cabin life.
Design Solutions
Overcoming the challenges posed by the sloped mountain site, the design team implemented strategic solutions to seamlessly connect the house with the outdoors:
Strategic Siting: The house is positioned to facilitate pedestrian entry at street level, while the main floor aligns with the west mountain slope, fostering a tangible connection to nature.
Roof Garden: Large sliding glass panel doors connect the upper floor to a south-facing roof garden, allowing inhabitants to enjoy warmer weather and scenic vistas.
Optimized Views: Framed views of the mountain forest and ski hills are strategically incorporated into the design, offering a visual feast of natural beauty from every vantage point.
Conclusion
The Whistler Treetop House stands as a harmonious blend of architectural ingenuity and natural splendor. From its thoughtful layout to its seamless integration with the surrounding landscape, this residence embodies the spirit of modern mountain living while honoring the timeless allure of Whistler’s wilderness.
