This new home in an established Sutton Forest rural area needed to address several issues inherent to the site. Firstly its position adjacent to a large property leaves it exposed to winds in both summer and winter. Secondly the northern aspect is to the side boundary. And finally the site slopes to the rear. The design solution is in direct response to these issues. The house is arranged in three main areas. The living area and secondary bedroom wing are located on either side of a completely enclosed courtyard that can be enjoyed and used at all times of the year, even when the wind is howling. Beyond the living area but connected to it by a long deck is the split level area of the house positioned where the site starts to slope away. Upstairs half a level up is the master bedroom suite with its own deck looking out to rural views, and below by half a level is the study, laundry and wine cellar. With a port cochere for alighting from vehicles undercover at the front, the house is well-insulated from the difficult aspects of the site, but with large north-facing windows in almost every room the lovely rural views can be enjoyed all year ‘round. (click thumbnail for full-size image)