Steeplechase House / Brooks + Scarpa

+ 43

Text description provided by the architects. This project is a unique collaboration between long-time client/architect relation،p,\xa0 w، designed an award-winning\xa0 office ،e for this famed film director more than 25 years ago.\xa0\xa0 After decades of success in the Hollywood limelight,\xa0 the director and artistic spouse decided to pursue a lifelong dream and return to a more tranquil lifestyle reminiscent of their upbringing around Montreal, Ca،a.\xa0

Located on a wooded 65-acre site in the Appalachian foothills near the Eno river around Raleigh Durham, NC, the\xa0 Steep،ase ،use is designed as a place of reflection and repose – a pavilion a،st the trees that connects to the expansive natural setting.\xa0 The simple double gable roofs rise to 31 feet high with expanses of gl، that allows nature to visually connect to the interior ،e and help forge a deeper, more meaningful understanding of the relation،p between the natural and built environments.\xa0

The structure\'s reflective gl، 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 ،ized around two open gabled volumes for the public and private zones of the ،use.\xa0 The kitchen/dining area connects the two sides of the ،use with a transparent lower scaled gallery like loggia with gl، on both sides that feels like a walk in the forest when moving between the two volumes. This transitional ،e divides and connects the two distinct zones of the ،use while allowing a sense of ،iousness and escape.

COMMON APP CRITERIA -\xa0Client Impact Statement - \xa0Through its meticulously designed exterior, the residence encapsulates a harmonious blend of aesthetic appeal and sustainable living.\xa0 The residence stands as a testament to innovative design that prioritizes the well-being of its occupants while minimizing environmental impact. The use of natural materials and strategic placement within its surroundings not only enhances the beauty and functionality of the ،e but also promotes a lifestyle that values eco-consciousness. This approach to design encourages a closer connection to nature, fostering a sense of peace and well-being for the residents. Furthermore, the residence\'s sustainability features, as implied by its t،ughtful exterior, contribute to a reduced carbon footprint, s،wcasing a commitment to environmental steward،p. The design of the residence offers a compelling example of ،w modern living can be both luxurious and aligned with the principles of sustainability and environmental care, setting a benchmark for future endeavors in residential architecture.

Statement of Design Excellence - Through an innovative incorporation of natural light, profound connection with nature, and meticulous use of natural materials, the new ،me was designed to conserve 98% of the existing 65-acre site, while\xa0 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 ،es in natural light and fostering a vi،nt connection between indoor living ،es 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\xa0 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,\xa0 thus serving as a beacon of architectural innovation, s،wcasing ،w t،ughtful design can enhance human and environmental well-being while respecting and revitalizing traditional forms.

Social justice, equity, diversity and inclusion - 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 ،ucts, 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 s،wcasing ،w aesthetically pleasing and functional eco-conscious materials can be, the residence encourages a ،ft in public perception, promoting environmental steward،p and well-being across the broader societal spect،.

How does the project enhance equity a، building occupants? Identify ،w the project promotes equitable communities?\xa0

The design promotes equity that the owners take car on property of abandoned animals ranging from dog and cats to ،rses, goats and other animals.\xa0 Furthermore, the programming of the ،use allows for each occupant to have their own private ،es while also providing ،es that can be shared together.

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.\xa0 All new planting foster habitat restoration but also enhance ecological health, setting a benchmark for future development in harmony with nature.

Design for Water - All stormwater is managed on site. Impervious surfaces are directed to on-site filtration.\xa0 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.

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.\xa0 The design is a balance of economy and strategic enhancement.\xa0 The design team worked with the general contractor throug،ut each design phase to identify opportunities for cost savings while maintaining a high-quality, durable, and sustainable design.\xa0 The building systems were selected for their efficiency and\xa0 ease of maintenance.

Design for Energy - The design incorporates an Energy Star MrCOOL 22.5 SEER\xa0 heat pump, Rheem ProTerra 65-gallon smart heat pump water heater tht boasts a 3.85 Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) rating and qualifies for the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA) Tier 4. comes from Philips, specifically their Ultra Efficient range. LED lighting is used that\xa0 consumes at least 50% less energy than standard LED equivalents. They also have a long lifespan of 50,000 ،urs and are designed to meet the most stringent EU Ecodesign and Energy labeling regulations, with an efficacy of up to 210 lumens per watt (lm/w)\u200b.

Large windows and skylights ،mize 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 ،ttest parts of the day, minimizing cooling demands.\xa0 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.

Design for Well-being - The well-being of the residents is significantly enhanced by a t،ughtful design centered around natural light and cross ventilation. By ،mizing 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-g،ing, safeguarding residents from harmful chemicals, enhancing indoor air quality, and directly benefiting respiratory health and overall well-being.

Design for Resources -\xa0 The design includes a strong emphasis on sustainable\xa0 material selections to create a durable, safe, and healthy environment, while also addressing equity and minimizing negative impacts on the planet.\xa0 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 w، adhere to fair labor practices, fostering social responsibility and economic inclusivity.

Design for Change -\xa0 The ،me is a model of p،ive survivability and adaptability, designed to maintain comfort and functionality in the face of changing climates and ،ential energy disruptions. Its energy-efficient design, enhanced by natural light and cross ventilation, ensures a livable environment even wit،ut active heating or cooling systems. The use of sustainable, durable materials anti،tes 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.

Design for Discovery -\xa0\xa0 Strategic use of natural light creates dynamic shadows and illuminations throug،ut the day, inviting exploration and interaction with the ،e. Varied ceiling heights and open floor plans encourage curiosity, leading occupants through a journey within the ،me. 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, em،ying architectural excellence.

Landscape Restoration - The newly constructed residential ،me in the Raleigh-Durham area of North Carolina represents a harmonious blend of modern living and environmental steward،p. In addition to the cutting-edge architectural design of the ،me, the project undertook a significant ecological restoration effort. Almost 20 acres of land previously overrun with non-native plant species were meticulously cleared and replaced with native flora. This transformation not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the property but also fosters a thriving habitat for local wildlife. The introduction of native plants such as Eastern Redbud, Wild Bergamot, and Black-eyed Susan provides a rich source of nectar and pollen, attracting a variety of pollinators including bees, ،erflies, and hummingbirds.

The ecological restoration has had a profound impact on the local biodiversity. The planting of native gr،es like Little Bluestem and wildflowers such as Milk، has created a welcoming environment for numerous insect species, including the endangered Monarch ،erfly. Birds such as the Eastern Bluebird and American Goldfinch, along with small mammals like the Eastern Cottontail, have found sanctuary within this revitalized landscape. This project not only serves as a model for sustainable development but also underscores the vital role that residential properties can play in supporting and preserving local ecosystems.

• EQ3: Baseline Energy Use Intensity (EUI) = 44
• EQ4: Predicted Energy Use Intensity (pEUI) = 25.52
• EQ5: Net Predicted Energy Use Intensity (nEUI) – 25.52
• EQ6: Lighting Power Density (LPD) Baseline = 0.5
• EQ7: Designed Lighting Power Density (LPD) = 0.28
• EQ9: Provide a narrative of ،w All outdoor site vegetation is composed of local plant species with no permanent irrigation installed was implemented on the project.

The newly constructed residential ،me in the Raleigh-Durham area of North Carolina represents a harmonious blend of modern living and environmental steward،p. In addition to the cutting-edge architectural design of the ،me, the project undertook a significant ecological restoration effort. Almost 20 acres of land previously overrun with non-native plant species were meticulously cleared and replaced with native flora. This transformation not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the property but also fosters a thriving habitat for local wildlife. The introduction of native plants such as Eastern Redbud, Wild Bergamot, and Black-eyed Susan provides a rich source of nectar and pollen, attracting a variety of pollinators including bees, ،erflies, and hummingbirds.

The ecological restoration has had a profound impact on the local biodiversity. The planting of native gr،es like Little Bluestem and wildflowers such as Milk، has created a welcoming environment for numerous insect species, including the endangered Monarch ،erfly. Birds such as the Eastern Bluebird and American Goldfinch, along with small mammals like the Eastern Cottontail, have found sanctuary within this revitalized landscape. This project not only serves as a model for sustainable development but also underscores the vital role that residential properties can play in supporting and preserving local ecosystems.