In a recent ideabook on modern homes in Canada, I discovered how carving into volumes was a shared trait. This led me to look around for other homes doing similar maneuvers, and one technique that popped up numerous times is what I am calling”carved corners” Buildings with carved corners have a portion taken from a volume to create an outdoor space, frame an entrance or simply make a style statement. Whatever the case, they are particular moments that deserve attention.
Peter Sampson Architecture Studio Inc..
The carved corner of the house certainly stands out, thanks to the natural wood colour against the gray wood background of the remainder of the front. This contrast should continue, because the timber won’t be subject to rain — a virtue of its being shining.
Peter Sampson Architecture Studio Inc..
A closer look reveals the thickness of the corner, which allows for a seat next to front door. This thickness can help to keep people dry at the front entrance, or even the residents as they fumble with their keys after leaping from the roadster in the driveway.
McKinney York Architects
This second example is a subtler design, where the opening is a dimension that’s like the window next to it, without creating any strong contrast between what is carved and what is not. The cladding provides this portion of the house a Lego-like look, going hand in hand with the simplified gable geometry. And that gets at what makes carved corners operate: When the shape could be grasped in its entirety, then the carving is noticeable and can have a greater impact.
McKinney York Architects
This recess offers sheltered access through a side door, but I can see the region underneath being utilized as a shady sitting space for someone not having a dip.
McMillan Builders
This interesting green box includes a generous patio created through its own carved corner.
McMillan Builders
The green stems from variegated glazed bricksup close I am drawn into built-in spout at the concrete counter/bench aligned with the side wall. It looks like the owners considered everything they desired with the outside space.
NIMMO American Studio For Progressive Architecture
Carved corners can be used for other items other entries and patios. This example, a multifamily housing project with numerous carvings, features a garage within its recess. (The entrance is to the side of the door)
NIMMO American Studio For Progressive Architecture
Looking at the plan with this unit, it’s apparent the overhang above adds to the ground space, creating a bigger living room. This makes sense, given that the compact strategy.
Taylor Smyth Architects
This project does not shout”carved corner” like the preceding instances do, but the side on the left — the illuminated corner — will not display the same traits. The outer layer of flat timber slats opens up at the corner.
Taylor Smyth Architects
From inside, the main reason for this opening up is apparent. Nice view!
Taylor Smyth Architects
The carving aspect is apparent here, in which the glass wall is put back enough to allow for several outside seating. The cottage is like a wood lining in front of a glass box.
Webber + Studio, Architects
This case is a bit more complicated compared to other examples. The timber columns and bracing at the corner reveal how part of the house is literally opened up to create a few sheltered outdoor space.
Webber + Studio, Architects
The corner is located near a lookout that provides nice views of the surrounding mountains. Cutouts in the wall enable views from the lower level.
Peter A. Sellar – Architectural Photographer
A variation on the carved-corner motif is the house, which has a chunk taken from the upper corner. This creates a terrace open to the sky.