Situated on the scenic shores of the Bay of Chaleur in Bathurst, New Brunswick's Sandbox proves that hardship can lead to a beautiful way of life. Intended by Peter Braithwaite Studio, this architectural novelty is not just a dwelling but a design that exists in harmony between domestic comfort and a natural landscape that withstands the Atlantic climate and celebrates it.
(Photo: Ema Peter)
An Encounter with Nature
Throughout this time, the designers were dealing with the severe weather of the Gulf St. Lawrence, which was a first in their careers and a lesson of learning milestones of this region. They were fortunate because they accepted the challenge of enduring the harsh weather in seasonal cottages by staying there, which allowed them to gain valuable information about their dramatic climatic condition and the wonder of the coastal view.
(Photo: Ema Peter)
Connecting with the Landscape
Despite the humble appearance of the existing cottage, its strategic location offered panoramic views of the bay and the open ocean, inspiring the design team to prioritize the connection between the dwelling spaces and the natural environment. Carefully positioned windows frame sweeping vistas, flooding the interiors with warm natural light and inviting the outdoors in.
Central to the design is the client's passion for gathering and food preparation, reflected in the kitchen layout around a custom island, the heart of the home. The master bedroom, above the living area, offers another vantage point to admire the bay's beauty bay through corner-wrapped windows. Accessible via a rooftop patio, residents can enjoy elevated coastline views, further integrating the dwelling with its surroundings.
Crafting Resilience
In response to the harsh Atlantic climate, the materials and construction methods were carefully selected to withstand the elements while embracing the local building culture. Eastern white cedar and weathering steel were chosen for their durability and ability to age gracefully, blending seamlessly with the weathered landscape.
A Community Celebration
Designed with a young, industrious couple in mind, The Sandbox was brought to life through a collaborative effort that extended beyond the architect-client relationship. Despite a modest budget, local connections to regional trades and manufacturers fostered lasting relationships, resulting in an elegantly crafted dwelling that reflects the spirit of the community and will endure for generations to come.
In other words, a building represents far more than stone and concrete; it embodies nature and the community's bond with the environment. Genre by the shaping of the coastline façade and the manifestation of the scenery, the Peter Braithwaite Studio has developed a place capable of offering residents a memorable feeling of tranquility, inspiring them and helping them to reconnect with nature.
