pelletier de fontenay forms three timber-clad volumes for ‘hatley house’ in canada

in collaboration with françois abbott, pelletier de fontenay designs the ‘hatley house‘ for a picturesque site in rural canada. in order to form an architectural expression befitting the region, the team developed the residence as a composition of three identically shaped volumes each with a high-pitched gable, resembling the agricultural barns and sheds that predominate the area. by reinterpreting architectural elements from these traditional structures, the project results in the image of a contemporary farmhouse.

all images © james brittain

the program of the house is separated by the three volumes according to function. these three components are composed of the central communal wing, the master wing, and the guest wing. thanks to the steep pitch of the roof designed by pelletier de fontenay, each volume boasts double height spaces reaching up to 8 meters. within the interior, the spaces are punctuated by large picture-frame windows that bring in an abundance of natural light, whilst also providing impressive views across the pastoral landscape. a number of sky-lights have also been implemented in the roof plain, bringing more light into the indoors.

the volumes are clad in timber and metal sheeting

the three units vary in size and orientation, resulting in a dynamic composition of volumes that are connected side by side without ever intersecting. in an effort to echo the nearby agricultural buildings, the exterior of the ‘hatley house’ is wrapped in timber cladding, while the roofs are covered in standing seam metal sheeting. these construction elements are used to simplify and unify the architectural expression, resulting in the image of an abstract barn, which inside welcomes users into the large, bright spaces.

the steep pitch intends to echo the surrounding agricultural buildings

the three rooflines seen together

view of the living and dining area

large windows provide impressive views over the natural landscape

the kitchen space benefits from a double height volume

view onto the kitchen, with white painted walls and concrete floor

view of the hallway

the bedroom with a picture-frame window looking outwards

the attic space

view of the timber-lined attic

the three volumes are positioned side by side, yet never intersect

project info:

project name: ‘hatley house’

location: hatley, canada

architect: pelletier de fontenay in collaboration with françois abbott

photography: james brittain