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Sumit Singhal
Sumit Singhal loves modern architecture. He comes from a family of builders who have built more than 20 projects in the last ten years near Delhi in India. He has recently started writing about the architectural projects that catch his imagination. The Giants of Bigwin in Lake of Bays, Canada by MU ArchitectureJanuary 20th, 2015 by Sumit Singhal
Article source: v2com MU architecture’s proposal for a pan-Canadian invited architectural competition consisting of around fifty small housing units on the island of Bigwin, Lake of Bays, Ontario, Canada. The objective was to design these housing units as high-end lodges at 1200 to 1500 ft2 for the clients of the renowned Bigwin golf club.  Image Courtesy © Mu architecture
 Image Courtesy © Mu architecture Inspired by the native atmosphere emanating from the island, the Giants of Bigwin are a tribute to Amerindian legends and to the spirits still seemingly reigning over the island. Although the form is peculiar, the housing units evoke memories of native villages of the past.  Image Courtesy © Mu architecture The triangular floor plan, resulting from a pyramid-like shape, allows for a multitude of views and layouts. To increase its adaptability to different ground conditions and inclinations, the structure rests on pillars. Lifting the first floor off the ground preserves a maximum of the pre-existing vegetation by minimizing the structures footprint while giving the occupants a certain degree of intimacy. The layout of the plan is simple and efficient; a main axis separates utility rooms from living space. The base housing unit consists of two parts. On the main floor of the principal volume is the entrance with a small washroom, kitchen, dinette and large living room with fireplace, placed in the middle of the space so as to be seen from every corner of the house. A spiral staircase connects the main floor with the mezzanine, where the master bedroom and an adjacent washroom are situated. A second volume with an additional bedroom and washroom, smaller in size and with a high ceiling, is attached to the principal volume.  Image Courtesy © Mu architecture The design proposal with its various volumes of different sizes and functions that can be combined in a multitude of ways adapts to the needs of the client and allows a high degree of personalization. For example, it is possible to attach a terrace, a garage for two golf carts or additional bedroom. Smaller base units consisting of only one bedroom are ideal for renting out.  Image Courtesy © Mu architecture Each unit’s structure is entirely prefabricated and assembled in-situ. The supporting construction is composed of wooden composite elements with steel anchors and covered with a system of glass panels and insulation panels. To make every unit unique, the envelope has been designed to respond to a set of parameters: the orientation, the views, the privacy and the location on the site determine the density and the spacing between the copper strips of the facade. Over time, the copper will oxidate and gradually blend in with the natural environment. The absence of traditional architectural elements and the unusual cladding materials creates an intentional loss of scale.  Image Courtesy © Mu architecture The proposed master plan divides the lots in 4 zones, corresponding to different construction phases. The units are distributed in small groups of 4 to 5 units, favoring interesting views and a high degree of privacy. Public spaces are created to stimulate exchange and develop a sense of community.  Image Courtesy © Mu architecture The Firm: Capitalizing on their North American and European experience with a variety of world renowned architectural firms, MU Architecture’s founders acquired a considerable amount of international experience while working with multidisciplinary teams and practices in Montreal, Vienna, Barcelona, Dubai and have developed a wide range of expertise. Since early 2010 MU Architecture’s Montreal based firm projects include: new construction design, institutional industrial, residential, commercial and also efficient redevelopment of built spaces.  Image Courtesy © Mu architecture MU architecture’s desire to build sensitive spaces is characterized by the conceptual nature of their projects’ design, high quality achievement and their obvious concern for details. The firm’s assets are based on its ability to manage and adapt to a variety of situations, its innovative designs, its constant concern for green architecture and new technologies while maintaining schedules and established budgets. The regulations high compliance of their work and the monitoring and support that they offer throughout the project process and their close collaboration with various trades of work are insurance to the project’s success. Given its passion for work, architectural skills, travel experience and client management strength, MU Architecture thrives on new challenges and spends the time and effort it takes to insure success.  Image Courtesy © Mu architecture  Image Courtesy © Mu architecture  Image Courtesy © Mu architecture  Image Courtesy © Fany Ducharme  Image Courtesy © Mu architecture  Image Courtesy © MU Architecture  Image Courtesy © MU Architecture  Image Courtesy © MU Architecture  Image Courtesy © MU Architecture  Image Courtesy © MU Architecture  Image Courtesy © MU Architecture  Image Courtesy © MU Architecture
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