ARCHITECTURE: Honor Award
 PROJECT: Leunter Commons CLIENT: Case Western Reserve University ARCHITECTURE FIRM: Stantec CONTRACTOR: Krill Co., Inc. ENGINEERS: Thorson Baker & Associates, Inc.; Karpinski Engineering, Inc. PHOTOGRAPHER: Jason Meyer of Feinkkopf Photography DESCRIPTION: Originally designed in 1963, Leunter Commons exemplified mid-century modern architecture. While the building had undergone updates over the decades, there were many factors that necessitated a renovation. These challenges were addressed while acknowledging the original building’s architecture and context. The new construction was designed as an extension, rather than an addition, by maintaining the original material palette, rhythm, proportions, sightlines, and the expression of horizontality of the existing building. JURY COMMENTS: This project is simple and self-confident, commensurate with the existing building. The enhancements are function driven influenced by the architecture of the building. The solution shows great restraint and did not overreach. The project is transformational while positively engaging its campus context. There is a very nice resonance between the building and the program.

The renovation of this classic Muskoka cottage, focused around re-designing the living space to make the most of the incredible lake views. This update completely changed the flow of space, aligning the living areas with a more modern & luxurious living context. In collaboration with the client, we envisioned a home in which clean lines, neutral tones, a variety of textures and patterns, and small yet luxurious details created a fresh, engaging space while seamlessly blending into the natural environment. The main floor of this home was completely gutted to reveal the true beauty of the space. Main floor walls were re-engineered with custom windows to expand the client’s majestic view of the lake. The dining area was highlighted with features including ceilings finished with Shadowline MDF, and enhanced with a custom coffered ceiling bringing dimension to the space. Unobtrusive details and contrasting textures add richness and intrigue to the space, creating an energizing yet soothing interior with tactile depth.

This home was built in an infill lot in an older, established, East Memphis neighborhood. We wanted to make sure that the architecture fits nicely into the mature neighborhood context. The clients enjoy the architectural heritage of the English Cotswold and we have created an updated/modern version of this style with all of the associated warmth and charm. As with all of our designs, having a lot of natural light in all the spaces is very important. The main gathering space has a beamed ceiling with windows on multiple sides that allows natural light to filter throughout the space and also contains an English fireplace inglenook. The interior woods and exterior materials including the brick and slate roof were selected to enhance that English cottage architecture. Builder: Eddie Kircher Construction Interior Designer: Rhea Crenshaw Interiors Photographer: Ross Group Creative

The renovation of this classic Muskoka cottage, focused around re-designing the living space to make the most of the incredible lake views. This update completely changed the flow of space, aligning the living areas with a more modern & luxurious living context. In collaboration with the client, we envisioned a home in which clean lines, neutral tones, a variety of textures and patterns, and small yet luxurious details created a fresh, engaging space while seamlessly blending into the natural environment. The main floor of this home was completely gutted to reveal the true beauty of the space. Main floor walls were re-engineered with custom windows to expand the client’s majestic view of the lake. The dining area was highlighted with features including ceilings finished with Shadowline MDF, and enhanced with a custom coffered ceiling bringing dimension to the space. Unobtrusive details and contrasting textures add richness and intrigue to the space, creating an energizing yet soothing interior with tactile depth.

The renovation of this classic Muskoka cottage, focused around re-designing the living space to make the most of the incredible lake views. This update completely changed the flow of space, aligning the living areas with a more modern & luxurious living context. In collaboration with the client, we envisioned a home in which clean lines, neutral tones, a variety of textures and patterns, and small yet luxurious details created a fresh, engaging space while seamlessly blending into the natural environment. The main floor of this home was completely gutted to reveal the true beauty of the space. Main floor walls were re-engineered with custom windows to expand the client’s majestic view of the lake. The dining area was highlighted with features including ceilings finished with Shadowline MDF, and enhanced with a custom coffered ceiling bringing dimension to the space. Unobtrusive details and contrasting textures add richness and intrigue to the space, creating an energizing yet soothing interior with tactile depth.

This home was built in an infill lot in an older, established, East Memphis neighborhood. We wanted to make sure that the architecture fits nicely into the mature neighborhood context. The clients enjoy the architectural heritage of the English Cotswold and we have created an updated/modern version of this style with all of the associated warmth and charm. As with all of our designs, having a lot of natural light in all the spaces is very important. The main gathering space has a beamed ceiling with windows on multiple sides that allows natural light to filter throughout the space and also contains an English fireplace inglenook. The interior woods and exterior materials including the brick and slate roof were selected to enhance that English cottage architecture. Builder: Eddie Kircher Construction Interior Designer: Rhea Crenshaw Interiors Photographer: Ross Group Creative

The renovation of this classic Muskoka cottage, focused around re-designing the living space to make the most of the incredible lake views. This update completely changed the flow of space, aligning the living areas with a more modern & luxurious living context. In collaboration with the client, we envisioned a home in which clean lines, neutral tones, a variety of textures and patterns, and small yet luxurious details created a fresh, engaging space while seamlessly blending into the natural environment. The main floor of this home was completely gutted to reveal the true beauty of the space. Main floor walls were re-engineered with custom windows to expand the client’s majestic view of the lake. The dining area was highlighted with features including ceilings finished with Shadowline MDF, and enhanced with a custom coffered ceiling bringing dimension to the space. Unobtrusive details and contrasting textures add richness and intrigue to the space, creating an energizing yet soothing interior with tactile depth.

This home was built in an infill lot in an older, established, East Memphis neighborhood. We wanted to make sure that the architecture fits nicely into the mature neighborhood context. The clients enjoy the architectural heritage of the English Cotswold and we have created an updated/modern version of this style with all of the associated warmth and charm. As with all of our designs, having a lot of natural light in all the spaces is very important. The main gathering space has a beamed ceiling with windows on multiple sides that allows natural light to filter throughout the space and also contains an English fireplace inglenook. The interior woods and exterior materials including the brick and slate roof were selected to enhance that English cottage architecture. Builder: Eddie Kircher Construction Interior Designer: Rhea Crenshaw Interiors Photographer: Ross Group Creative

The renovation of this classic Muskoka cottage, focused around re-designing the living space to make the most of the incredible lake views. This update completely changed the flow of space, aligning the living areas with a more modern & luxurious living context. In collaboration with the client, we envisioned a home in which clean lines, neutral tones, a variety of textures and patterns, and small yet luxurious details created a fresh, engaging space while seamlessly blending into the natural environment. The main floor of this home was completely gutted to reveal the true beauty of the space. Main floor walls were re-engineered with custom windows to expand the client’s majestic view of the lake. The dining area was highlighted with features including ceilings finished with Shadowline MDF, and enhanced with a custom coffered ceiling bringing dimension to the space. Unobtrusive details and contrasting textures add richness and intrigue to the space, creating an energizing yet soothing interior with tactile depth.

This home was built in an infill lot in an older, established, East Memphis neighborhood. We wanted to make sure that the architecture fits nicely into the mature neighborhood context. The clients enjoy the architectural heritage of the English Cotswold and we have created an updated/modern version of this style with all of the associated warmth and charm. As with all of our designs, having a lot of natural light in all the spaces is very important. The main gathering space has a beamed ceiling with windows on multiple sides that allows natural light to filter throughout the space and also contains an English fireplace inglenook. The interior woods and exterior materials including the brick and slate roof were selected to enhance that English cottage architecture. Builder: Eddie Kircher Construction Interior Designer: Rhea Crenshaw Interiors Photographer: Ross Group Creative

The renovation of this classic Muskoka cottage, focused around re-designing the living space to make the most of the incredible lake views. This update completely changed the flow of space, aligning the living areas with a more modern & luxurious living context. In collaboration with the client, we envisioned a home in which clean lines, neutral tones, a variety of textures and patterns, and small yet luxurious details created a fresh, engaging space while seamlessly blending into the natural environment. The main floor of this home was completely gutted to reveal the true beauty of the space. Main floor walls were re-engineered with custom windows to expand the client’s majestic view of the lake. The dining area was highlighted with features including ceilings finished with Shadowline MDF, and enhanced with a custom coffered ceiling bringing dimension to the space. Unobtrusive details and contrasting textures add richness and intrigue to the space, creating an energizing yet soothing interior with tactile depth.

The Ivy End Residence is cherished for its tasteful, finely detailed millwork and Gothic style. This addition doubled the size of the home, while taking design cues from the existing structure to enhance the high-class style of the addition and renovation. Through the use of antique bricks and an embellished roofline, the new project impeccably matches the character of the initial cottage. The result? An unparalleled update for a bucolic house, fitting beautifully into its scenic context.

This home was built in an infill lot in an older, established, East Memphis neighborhood. We wanted to make sure that the architecture fits nicely into the mature neighborhood context. The clients enjoy the architectural heritage of the English Cotswold and we have created an updated/modern version of this style with all of the associated warmth and charm. As with all of our designs, having a lot of natural light in all the spaces is very important. The main gathering space has a beamed ceiling with windows on multiple sides that allows natural light to filter throughout the space and also contains an English fireplace inglenook. The interior woods and exterior materials including the brick and slate roof were selected to enhance that English cottage architecture. Builder: Eddie Kircher Construction Interior Designer: Rhea Crenshaw Interiors Photographer: Ross Group Creative

Southdowns Estate is situated within agricultural pastures that reflect the area’s legacy of dairy farming. The client requested a design with a contemporary interpretation that is still grounded in this heritage. House van Der Post reflects the heritage of the area in a contemporary context and encourages dialogue with its natural setting. The house is designed to be seen as three barnlike structures; one is separate, housing a garage and flat, the others are linked by a spine with skylights. A simple design philosophy results in architecture that enhances a sense of place. In contrast to off-shutter concrete, traditional vernacular elements are recalled through the use of red face brick and stone cladding excavated on site. Smooth plaster, aluminium and steel balance these robust materials. The garden is characterised by gentle terraces that complement the contemporary identity of the house and promote the integration of interior and exterior. Photographs by: Malan Kotze Photography

The renovation of this classic Muskoka cottage, focused around re-designing the living space to make the most of the incredible lake views. This update completely changed the flow of space, aligning the living areas with a more modern & luxurious living context. In collaboration with the client, we envisioned a home in which clean lines, neutral tones, a variety of textures and patterns, and small yet luxurious details created a fresh, engaging space while seamlessly blending into the natural environment. The main floor of this home was completely gutted to reveal the true beauty of the space. Main floor walls were re-engineered with custom windows to expand the client’s majestic view of the lake. The dining area was highlighted with features including ceilings finished with Shadowline MDF, and enhanced with a custom coffered ceiling bringing dimension to the space. Unobtrusive details and contrasting textures add richness and intrigue to the space, creating an energizing yet soothing interior with tactile depth.

The renovation of this classic Muskoka cottage, focused around re-designing the living space to make the most of the incredible lake views. This update completely changed the flow of space, aligning the living areas with a more modern & luxurious living context. In collaboration with the client, we envisioned a home in which clean lines, neutral tones, a variety of textures and patterns, and small yet luxurious details created a fresh, engaging space while seamlessly blending into the natural environment. The main floor of this home was completely gutted to reveal the true beauty of the space. Main floor walls were re-engineered with custom windows to expand the client’s majestic view of the lake. The dining area was highlighted with features including ceilings finished with Shadowline MDF, and enhanced with a custom coffered ceiling bringing dimension to the space. Unobtrusive details and contrasting textures add richness and intrigue to the space, creating an energizing yet soothing interior with tactile depth.

This home was built in an infill lot in an older, established, East Memphis neighborhood. We wanted to make sure that the architecture fits nicely into the mature neighborhood context. The clients enjoy the architectural heritage of the English Cotswold and we have created an updated/modern version of this style with all of the associated warmth and charm. As with all of our designs, having a lot of natural light in all the spaces is very important. The main gathering space has a beamed ceiling with windows on multiple sides that allows natural light to filter throughout the space and also contains an English fireplace inglenook. The interior woods and exterior materials including the brick and slate roof were selected to enhance that English cottage architecture. Builder: Eddie Kircher Construction Interior Designer: Rhea Crenshaw Interiors Photographer: Ross Group Creative

This home was built in an infill lot in an older, established, East Memphis neighborhood. We wanted to make sure that the architecture fits nicely into the mature neighborhood context. The clients enjoy the architectural heritage of the English Cotswold and we have created an updated/modern version of this style with all of the associated warmth and charm. As with all of our designs, having a lot of natural light in all the spaces is very important. The main gathering space has a beamed ceiling with windows on multiple sides that allows natural light to filter throughout the space and also contains an English fireplace inglenook. The interior woods and exterior materials including the brick and slate roof were selected to enhance that English cottage architecture. Builder: Eddie Kircher Construction Interior Designer: Rhea Crenshaw Interiors Photographer: Ross Group Creative

The renovation of this classic Muskoka cottage, focused around re-designing the living space to make the most of the incredible lake views. This update completely changed the flow of space, aligning the living areas with a more modern & luxurious living context. In collaboration with the client, we envisioned a home in which clean lines, neutral tones, a variety of textures and patterns, and small yet luxurious details created a fresh, engaging space while seamlessly blending into the natural environment. The main floor of this home was completely gutted to reveal the true beauty of the space. Main floor walls were re-engineered with custom windows to expand the client’s majestic view of the lake. The dining area was highlighted with features including ceilings finished with Shadowline MDF, and enhanced with a custom coffered ceiling bringing dimension to the space. Unobtrusive details and contrasting textures add richness and intrigue to the space, creating an energizing yet soothing interior with tactile depth.