Floating House: This highly innovative private residence breaks new ground with an architectural concrete envelope that uses a completely unique white concrete mix custom developed exclusively for the project. The project is a fusion of contemporary east-Asian, and west coast design influences.
photography by © Michael Elkan
The composition appears to float on a large reflecting pool set within an oriental garden setting. Large expanses of glazing and sliding doors are framed in African mahogany wood and screened with a dynamic architectural wood screen.
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The Interior of The Floating House:
The interiors flow with cascading floor slabs and dramatic volumes as unnecessary partitions are removed to create interior ‘exhibition’ spaces. The minimalist interior finishing details include stone slab floors, a suspended main stair of steel and hardwood; floating ceilings; and suspended custom fireplaces.
photography by © John Sinal
The exterior timber slats on the outside of the floating house are in dark stained sapele, providing solar shading and privacy to the large expanses of glazing. This unique home is a “Jewel-box”, with carefully crafted details, integrated millwork, and luxurious materials to create warmth and surprise, while composed into a modest, minimal and homogenous whole.
photography by © John Sinal
Project Info
Architects: Arno Matis Architecture
Location: Vancouver, Canada
Building Envelope: Spratt Emanuel
Builder Concrete/Envelope: Iconstrux (Arno Matis)
Construction Admin (post envelope completion): Ruf Projects
Structural Engineer: Fast + Epp
Landscape Architect: Paul Sangha
Geotechnical Engineer: GeoPacific
Year: 2015
Type: Residential
Size: 4,000 sq ft (372 SM)
Photography: Michael Elkan, John Sinal
Hadeer Shahin is the Built Projects Editor at Arch2O, where she curates innovative architectural works from around the globe. With a background in architecture from Alexandria University and hands-on experience in design and digital content, she bridges the gap between technical precision and editorial vision. Hadeer’s keen eye for spatial storytelling and her passion for contemporary design trends make her a vital contributor to Arch2O’s mission of highlighting excellence in the built environment.