Dove is a collection of interconnected landscape pavilions forming a 5,000 square foot L-shaped residence. The upper level houses a dining area, while the lower floors contain living spaces. This project embraces sustainable and eco-friendly design principles. The entire residence is constructed from durable, sustainable materials designed to endure over time. The aim of this sustainable design is to foster a lasting connection between occupants and nature, creating a sense of belonging within the natural environment while experiencing the space.
The design of Dove emphasizes connectivity through a series of linked landscape tents or pavilions, rather than enclosed rooms within a dominant shell. These pavilions offer a variety of engaging experiences. Each room is independently situated and connected by multiple internal pathways, making every primary space a unique destination. Moving through the residence evokes the sensation of wandering through Ontario’s forests and meadows. At the center, a fireplace anchors the concrete core of the home. Natural light filters through openings and reflects off the facade, creating ever-changing patterns of light and shadow.
This project incorporates sustainability and biomorphic design by integrating often overlooked environmental management strategies. It uses ground source heat pumps, solar power collection, sunlight control, and flexible materials to connect residents directly with their surroundings in a meaningful way. The home’s opening and closing mechanisms highlight contrasts between intimate foreground views and distant tree canopies or celestial phenomena. Seasonal shifts in natural light wash across textures, telling different stories throughout the year.
On the roof, 41 photovoltaic panels generate more electricity than the home consumes, feeding surplus energy back into the grid. Geothermal energy maintains comfortable temperatures year-round, supported by comprehensive insulation encasing the building. Additionally, green gardens on the flat roof feature locally sourced drought-resistant plants irrigated with collected site water.
Cast-in-place concrete towers and walls, reinforced with steel, create rich interior textures while also serving as the structural framework supporting the roof. Concrete acts as a mast securing the steel frame network that spans the internal space and beyond. This system allows wooden ceilings to flow seamlessly throughout the residence, appearing to float unsupported from one pavilion to another. The substantial concrete volumes contrast dramatically with the lightweight, folding roof forms.
The main roof’s color palette, inspired by nature, features a folding design with white birch wood lining the interior and weather-resistant steel on the exterior. This design warmly embraces the interior like a tent. To enrich tactile experiences, the design team selected materials that offer strong contrasts—reflective countertops, bold green stone patterns paired with warm oak flooring and fine woodworking, and rough wood grain textures on concrete surfaces—evoking memories of their craftsmanship.
Beyond the interior and exterior architecture, the project encompasses product design and related artwork, including custom lighting fixtures, bespoke carpets, built-in furniture, a greenhouse, covered walkways, swimming pools, and landscape architecture. Each element is thoughtfully integrated to achieve overall harmony and unity.
Project Drawings
△ First Floor Plan
△ Second Floor Plan
Project Information
Architect: AGATHOM Co
Area: 5,000 ft²
Year: 2021
Photography: Steven Evans Photography
Manufacturers: Louis Poulsen, Torp Inc, VAEV
Project Managers: Katja Aga Sachse Thom, Adam James Thom
Design Team: Serafima Korovina, Stanley Sun, Joshua Henk, David Stone
Collaborator: VMF Structures
Structural Engineering: Moses Structural Engineers
Landscape Design: AGATHOM Co. Ltd, Coivic Contracting Ltd
Lighting Design: TPL, Viken Kendirjian
Location: Toronto, Canada
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