Steeplechase House

2024 Design Awards Merit Recipient

Located on a wooded 65-acre site in the Appalachian foothills near the Eno river around Raleigh Durham, NC, the Steeplechase house is designed as a place of reflection and repose – a pavilion amongst the trees that connects to the expansive natural setting. The simple double gable roofs rise to 31 feet high with expanses of glass that allows nature to visually connect to the interior space and help forge a deeper, more meaningful understanding of the relationship between the natural and built environments.

The structure’s reflective glass and black metal exterior give the building an ever-changing presence during the seasons; receding into the forest‘s dappled light in the summer and winter stalk-like tree structures and standing out like a beacon with the occasional winter snow, while the natural plywood interior create a protected and warm gathering place, while preserving the spectacular view into the forest.

The plan is organized around two open gabled volumes for the public and private zones of the house. The kitchen/dining area connects the two sides of the house with a transparent lower scaled gallery like loggia with glass on both sides that feels like a walk in the forest when moving between the two volumes. This transitional space divides and connects the two distinct zones of the house while allowing a sense of spaciousness and escape.

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This project takes a prototypical and iconic house form and is innovative with it with a modern approach that extrudes that form and then abstracts it. The reflections are beautiful and then the section shifts and serpentines through the site to create a wonderful courtyard space on the inside.

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Measure 1: Design for Integration

Through an innovative incorporation of natural light, profound connection with nature, and meticulous use of natural materials, the new home was designed to conserve 98% of the existing 65-acre site, while harmoniously coexisting with its natural environment and ensuring minimal disturbance to the natural setting. The design seamlessly integrates large windows and strategically placed skylights, bathing interior spaces in natural light and fostering a vibrant connection between indoor living spaces and the outdoor environment. This architecture employs natural materials not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their sustainability, enhancing the building’s ecological footprint.

The residence’s innovative reinterpretation of traditional gable roof forms, prevalent in the region, further demonstrates a commitment to design excellence. By blending these traditional elements with modern design principles, the residence creates a unique visual language that speaks to both heritage and innovation. This approach results in a building that stands in harmony within its natural setting, offering a forward-looking model for sustainable residential design, thus serving as a beacon of architectural innovation, showcasing how thoughtful design can enhance human and environmental well-being while respecting and revitalizing traditional forms.

Economy is also a core performance measure for this project. La Fénix is an efficiently designed and durable building with a focus on supporting the local economy. The Energy performance of this project centers on responding to the building’s microclimate, ensuring occupant comfort and control, and creating a high-performing building envelope.

Measure 2: Design for Equitable Communities

Benefits go beyond the immediate occupants by championing eco-friendly practices that positively impact the wider community. Utilizing 100% recycled metal and FSC certified wood products, the building sets a precedent for sustainable construction that mitigates environmental harm. These materials not only reduce the ecological footprint but also inspire local builders to adopt greener practices, fostering a culture of sustainability within the community. Additionally, by showcasing how aesthetically pleasing and functional eco-conscious materials can be, the residence encourages a shift in public perception, promoting environmental stewardship and well-being across the broader societal spectrum.

Measure 3: Design for Ecosystems

The owners have put in place a plan to conserve and restore the 65 acre site to its natural habitat, supporting regional flora and fauna. No irrigation is provided on the site. All new planting foster habitat restoration but also enhance ecological health, setting a benchmark for future development in harmony with nature.

Measure 4: Design for Water

All stormwater is managed on site. Impervious surfaces are directed to on-site filtration. Water savings of approx. 38% above average due to low flow fixtures equates to substantial cost savings for both utility domestic and sewer water rates and payback time is less than 1 year.

Measure 5: Design for Economy

We prioritized both first and long-term costs and the need to have no or low maintenance costs for the future of the building. The design is a balance of economy and strategic enhancement. The design team worked with the general contractor throughout each design phase to identify opportunities for cost savings while maintaining a high-quality, durable, and sustainable design. The building systems were selected for their efficiency and ease of maintenance.

Measure 6: Design for Energy

Large windows and skylights maximize natural daylight and cross ventilation, reducing the need for artificial lighting. The building is strategically placed to allow existing trees to block direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day, minimizing cooling demands. High-quality insulation and energy-efficient glazing further reduce energy usage. A state-of-the-art energy management system monitors and controls lighting, HVAC that helps optimize energy usage and ensures that equipment operates at its most efficient levels.

Measure 7: Design for Well-Being

The well-being of the residents is significantly enhanced by a thoughtful design centered around natural light and cross ventilation. By maximizing the infusion of natural light, the design promotes vitamin D synthesis and regulates circadian rhythms, fostering better sleep and mood. Cross ventilation ensures a constant flow of fresh air, reducing the reliance on artificial climate control, and contributing to a comfortable living environment. The exclusive use of natural, non-toxic materials eliminates off-gassing, safeguarding residents from harmful chemicals, enhancing indoor air quality, and directly benefiting respiratory health and overall well-being.

Measure 8: Design for Resources

The design includes a strong emphasis on sustainable material selections to create a durable, safe, and healthy environment, while also addressing equity and minimizing negative impacts on the planet. The project employs recycled and low-toxicity materials, ensuring a safe and healthy indoor environment for both residents and visitors. The project sources materials from suppliers and manufacturers who adhere to fair labor practices, fostering social responsibility and economic inclusivity.

Measure 9: Design for Change

The home is a model of passive survivability and adaptability, designed to maintain comfort and functionality in the face of changing climates and potential energy disruptions. Its energy-efficient design, enhanced by natural light and cross ventilation, ensures a livable environment even without active heating or cooling systems. The use of sustainable, durable materials anticipates future environmental challenges, allowing for longevity and reduced maintenance. Furthermore, the residence’s flexible design enables adaptation to evolving living requirements, ensuring that it remains a sustainable and comfortable haven for its occupants through changing times and conditions.

Measure 10: Design for Discovery

Strategic use of natural light creates dynamic shadows and illuminations throughout the day, inviting exploration and interaction with the space. Varied ceiling heights and open floor plans encourage curiosity, leading occupants through a journey within the home. Incorporation of natural materials and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions enhances connectivity with nature, offering serene vistas and fostering a deep sense of tranquility and wonder. These elements collectively craft an environment that captivates, comforts, and stimulates the senses, embodying architectural excellence.