High Point Estates April 2006 Gomberoff Bell Lyon Architects Group Inc.
1 29 Contents Part One The Building Scheme Part Two Architectural Character and Siting Building Part One: The Building Scheme i 31 Introduction ii 37 Rural Estate Styles 43 European Country Styles
Building Part Two: Architectural Character and Siting iii 29
Architectural Character and Siting 30 The landscape at High Point Estates is classically rural and equestrian in nature. The topography can be characterized by gentle, rolling land forms and more inclined hills to the south, which offer spectacular views of the surrounding bucolic farmland. 31 The nature of the land varies from grass pasture to semi-wetland and treed areas offering a variety of settings for homes of differing character. The lot sizes at High Point range from approximately half an acre to over two acres in size. They are spread over the site to take advantage of the hillside view settings and well as flatter rural estate sites. A series of trails and bridal paths traverse the site, a large portion of which is given over to public park and open space.
In this context, generally lowslung building forms with more expansive footprints are encouraged. One- and oneand-a-half-storey massing will be appropriate on flat sites; up to two-and-a-half-storey massing will be acceptable on the downhill side of steeper hillside lots. 32 33 Picturesque roofscapes and a range of formal elements such as gables, bay windows, dormers, and chimneys will give variety and add interest. The building siting should be informal and groups or clusters of building forms can wrap around or even enclose courtyards, driveway turnarounds, and patios. Garage doors should be hidden from view from the street, even on the smaller lots.
Loggias, verandas, breezeways, and porch elements should be used to encourage indooroutdoor living. Barbeques, fire pits and outdoor fireplaces can add greatly to the overall ambience. 34 The general impression should be one of casual elegance. Materials specified should be of high quality, natural, and authentic. Colours should also be natural tones; deep, rich colours are welcome but bright colours should be avoided. 35 Several architectural styles will be appropriate at High Point, and they can be grouped into two general families: The European Country Style and the Rural Estates Style.
The Rural Estate Styles This family of styles includes Ranch, Farmhouse, Prairie and Cottage styles. 36 These styles are characterized by their low sprawling forms and extensive use of wood for wall covering. These forms evolved from their beginnings as working country homes, and were often grouped together in a cluster, which, over time, has given the arrangement a picturesque quality. Board and batten, horizontal siding and shingles are all common wall surfaces. 37 Veranda and porch elements are a major feature of the Rural Estate style, as are gables and roof dormers. Breezeways are also a common element, used to connect different buildings and provide weather protection.
Windows are typically wood casement, and are sometimes grouped together in bands or set individually in walls with a wood trim. Colours may vary from bright white to rich earth tones to weathered greys, sometimes with crisp, contrasting trim. 38 39 Landscape treatment of the land surrounding these homes is usually simple, neat and tidy, with large lawn areas, mature trees, and fencing being prominent elements. Hillside sites would have an informal and soft approach to grade changes, with sloping lawns and the use of some stone retaining walls.
Contemporary interpretations of these traditional styles will be considered. 40 41
The European Country Styles This family of styles draws on the slightly more formal heritage of Europe and the Eastern United States. It includes the French Country, English Vernacular and Country Colonial styles. 42 Historically these, too, were working rural buildings, and they are characterized by a somewhat informal massing and arrangement. Often clustered around courtyards, stable yards, or patios, they give a picturesque impression of sophisticated, casual elegance and refined style. 43
44 Both gable and hip roofs were common, usually of a slightly steeper pitch. Roof dormers, porte-cochères, distinctive chimneys and even small tower forms add interest and variety to the massing. Embellishments might include window shutters, brackets and slightly more elaborate post-and-beam supports. 45
Materials used were often stone, brick, and wood siding for walls, and wood shingles, slate, or clay tile for roofs. Windows would most likely be vertically proportioned and can include glazed bay windows and French doors. 46 Colours should be subdued 47 and often dominated by natural stone or brick. Gardens are likely to be more formal than those associated with the Rural Style; solid, stone garden walls and hedging are acceptable.
In the case of hillside sites, terraces will be appropriate if necessary, and can create level lawns and patios for outdoor activities. 48 49
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