At the edge of open fields and forest, within the quiet rural setting of Grey County, Ridge House stands as a refined study of contemporary architecture that does not seek to dominate nature, but rather to adapt to it. The project is designed by the acclaimed Canadian studio Superkül, whose work is distinguished by a deep connection between architecture, context, and long-term sustainability.
Architecture Shaped by the Land
Ridge House is conceived as a direct response to the site itself—its gentle slope, high groundwater level, and the presence of mature ironwood trees marking the threshold between open land and forest. Instead of aggressive intervention, the house is partially embedded into the terrain, achieving privacy, protection from prevailing winds, and a strong visual relationship with the surrounding landscape.
The most recognizable architectural feature is the large sloping roof, which reads almost as an extension of the topography. Its sculptural form hovers above the field’s horizon, while the front façade is discreetly concealed from the road—a gesture of architectural restraint that defines the entire project.
Passive Strategies and Intelligent Performance
Ridge House relies on passive design principles and high-efficiency systems. Deep roof overhangs shade floor-to-ceiling triple-glazed openings on the east and west façades, controlling solar gain in summer while allowing the lower winter sun to penetrate deep into the interior.
The west façade features accordion-style glass doors with integrated insect screens, creating sheltered semi-outdoor spaces and enabling natural cross-ventilation. This strategy significantly reduces the need for mechanical cooling during the warmer months. The decision to omit a basement—due to high groundwater levels—further reduced concrete use and the overall environmental footprint of the building.
An Interior as an Extension of Nature
The homeowners envisioned a calm, introspective residence that dissolves the boundary between indoors and outdoors. The interior is defined by a restrained monochromatic palette, matte finishes, and natural materials, with a strong emphasis on light and proportion.
At the heart of the house lies an interior courtyard—a protected garden positioned beneath a rectangular roof opening. This “hidden garden” draws daylight deep into the core of the home, while wooden privacy screens create a dynamic play of shadows throughout the day. The main bathroom opens directly onto this green enclave, while carefully positioned skylights reflect soft, diffused daylight into the living and dining areas.
The kitchen’s grey tones extend seamlessly to the exterior cladding of the structural columns, reinforcing a visual continuity between interior and exterior spaces.
Durability as Luxury
Ridge House is designed for longevity in Ontario’s demanding climate. The material palette includes a standing-seam metal roof, durable exterior cladding, marine-grade plywood, and prefabricated windows and doors finished with low-VOC coatings resistant to wear, moisture, and staining.
Comfort is ensured through zoned radiant floor heating, a cold-climate heat pump, and an air heat recovery ventilation system that enhances both indoor air quality and energy efficiency.
Contemporary Luxury Without Excess
Ridge House is not a home that seeks immediate attention—it is one that reveals itself over time. Luxury here lies not in gesture, but in intention: in light, silence, material integrity, and the way architecture follows the rhythm of nature. It is a residence designed for long-term living rather than fleeting impact.
