Nestled within the wooded hills of Brownsburg-Chatham, the Tsuga Residence embodies a perfect harmony between contemporary architecture and untamed nature. Designed for an architectural historian and a musician and soprano, the house stands as a true ode to the surrounding landscape. Its carefully considered placement follows the steep slope of the land, maximizing views while preserving privacy.

A Dialogue Between Architecture and Landscape

Drawing inspiration from Nordic and vernacular architecture, the architects at Appareil created a compact and refined home. Composed of interlocking volumes, the residence plays with verticality to offer ever-changing perspectives of the lake and forest. Its elevated positioning enhances the feeling of a suspended retreat: at garden level, one observes the tree trunks' bases; on the main floor, the sensation of being in a treehouse prevails; and upstairs, the canopy envelops the living spaces.

The choice of materials and technical solutions reflects a deep respect for the site. The natural slope was preserved, rainwater is redirected to dry wells, and the land was restored after construction with adapted plantings to stabilize the soil.

An Interior Designed as a Sensory Stage

The interior layout, marked by refined simplicity, highlights natural light and materials. At the heart of the house lies the double-height living room, bathed in light from large windows that frame the landscape. Its red oak paneling ensures optimal acoustics for the grand piano, transforming the space into an intimate concert hall.

The kitchen, clad in black ash, features a minimalist aesthetic where every detail has been meticulously crafted, from the integrated furniture to the noble materials. The living spaces seamlessly extend outdoors through a screened terrace and a sauna offering serene views of the lake.

A Sustainable and Biophilic Architecture

By minimizing the building’s footprint and prioritizing durable materials, the residence adheres to the principles of sustainable architecture. Its high-performance envelope exceeds Novoclimat standards, ensuring optimal thermal comfort. Local wood and metal, selected for their longevity, blend harmoniously into the landscape.

Through its thoughtful design, the Tsuga Residence transcends the notion of mere shelter to become an immersive experience, where architecture honors nature and magnifies light, offering its occupants a peaceful haven suspended between sky and earth.