What does the word ‘architecture’ mean to you? It might spark off a mental image of classic Greek pillars or contemporary glass-and-steel structures. Perhaps you envision measuring tools, 3D models, or stacks of blueprints. Architecture has been called a science, a business, and a vocation. It creates a sense of place and encourages human activity. It represents the iconography of a culture, offering clues about generation and era — the materials that were available there and then; the lifestyle and economic conditions of the times; the climate, the labour force, the fashions and trends.
From Athens’ Parthenon or Rome’s Colosseum to Sydney’s modern opera house and the famed Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, architecture has always been celebrated as a high art form. And the same dedication to aesthetics and structure epitomizes creative architectural design, even on a simpler scale — say, for example, a Muskoka boathouse or cottage.
In the development of this issue of HIDEAWAYS, with our focus on architectural design, we were fortunate enough to get the input of Dave Spolnik of Sprout Studios in Muskoka. Offbeat and ingenious elements underscore his designs, with a portfolio ranging from high-end conventional designs to explorations in new structures and materials. “We think differently,” Dave says, and his colleague, Brooke Atkins, nods in agreement. “And we encourage our clients to consider innovative materials and approaches.”
Dave began his career in Toronto on large-scale commercial projects, but Muskoka lets him exercise his creative instincts in a natural landscape. “I really came for the fishing,” he laughs, “but I can’t think of a better place to get inspired.” Brooke returned to her Muskoka roots after graduating from Sheridan College as an Architectural Technologist, joining Sprout Studios in 2009.
Both Dave and Brooke embrace the philosophy of integration between function and design. “With the best buildings,” Dave says, “the structure IS the aesthetic.” One of their residential projects used natural huge boulders as the foundation, blending into the slope of the terrain to become part of the landscape.
Many of Sprout Studios’ clients are strongly influenced by environmental considerations … and rightfully so. People are drawn to Muskoka for its scenic beauty, and they want to blend its elements into their homes and protect the natural landscape. “Green construction doesn’t necessarily mean an array of solar panels or wind turbines,” comments Dave. Intelligent site planning evaluates the best exposures for solar-passive heating and the availability of shade trees for cooling and wind buffering. Stone floors and fireplaces absorb heat which radiates as the sun declines. Insulation should be boosted at north-facing walls, while overhangs can block the summer sun but welcome it in the winter.
Great architecture means exceptional aesthetics, sound structure, and environmental sensitivity. But beyond that, creative architectural design can provide savings during construction when partnered with an understanding of building processes and close collaboration with contractors and sub-trade professionals. Intelligent and accurate lumber sizing and careful engineering of the angles result in faster builds, reduced labour, and less waste. Savings can also be realized through coordination of delivery of materials and choice of the best season for the build.
The Sprout Studios’ office itself is constructed from a technique known as rammed earth, creating strikingly striated walls. Local rammed earth specialist, James Blackman, has collaborated with Sprout Studios on a number of these projects. Dave says, “He is knowledgeable and passionate about alternative building materials and it is great to brainstorm with him through a project.” The exterior walls on the Sprout Studios’ office need no finishes, using a Japanese technique of charred cedar called shou sugi ban. Inside, the rafters are in precise alignment. “The ceiling rafters were built as a single unit outside,” explains Brooke, “then positioned into place by a crane.” The four-inch floating concrete floor is kept warm with radiant heating.
Architecture transforms space and creates form to harmonize ambience and function, light and shadow, technology and materials. When innate creativity is coupled with energetic inquisitiveness, some remarkable achievements are brought to life. Inspired and inspirational — it’s the trademark of superb architectural design … around the world, and right here in Cottage Country. CCH
Selected Photos: Robert Nelson
