Falcon Crescent

This extraordinary property sat untouched until the clients acquired it, presenting both challenge and reward in equal measure. Specifically, the steep, rocky terrain demanded extensive blasting and careful planning. Yet from the outset, the land’s unique shape, size, and sharp rear incline pointed toward one clear ambition: embrace and preserve the natural landscape rather than fight it.

To complement its surroundings, the design maximizes street frontage while maintaining a modest depth — averaging around 20 feet for most of its length. On the lower floor, robust concrete construction forms the foundation. In turn, the garage sits tactfully to the side, connected to the main entrance by a series of steps. Notably, the spacious entryway was designed with intention, accommodating the clients’ experience of large family groups preparing for summer and winter adventures alike. In this way, even the arrival sequence reflects the home’s broader purpose.

At the heart of the home, a central stacked staircase rises beneath a roof light. This single element does double duty: it adds visual drama while simultaneously channeling natural light down through the open staircase to illuminate every interior floor below. As a result, even the deepest parts of the plan feel bright and connected.

Similarly, the main floor revolves around the open kitchen and living areas. The lounge extends out over the garage roof and leads directly to an accessible deck with a green roof. Together, these spaces offer retreat and a strong connection to the outdoors. Rising through the home’s core, meanwhile, a stone-clad chimney spans all three floors, with fireplaces on the upper levels adding warmth throughout.

At the rear, additional excavation into the rock created space for a fire pit and hot tub area. Directly above, an upper-floor bedroom extends over this zone, providing both shelter and an architectural focal point. Meanwhile, the remaining upper-floor bedrooms are strategically positioned to capture expansive views of the northern mountains. In each case, outlook and aspect were carefully considered.

Inside, the home strikes a balance between rugged exterior and carefully curated interior. Rather than contrasting the two, the design blends natural elements with a refined, selective approach. Consequently, the result is a space that feels both luxurious and deeply in tune with its environment.

Despite facing north with limited direct sunlight, Falcon House became one of the first homes submitted as a Step 4 Energy Performance house in Whistler. To achieve this, off-site fabrication, over-insulated exterior walls, triple-glazed windows, additional roof insulation, and high-performance heat pumps all work in concert. As a result, the home performs as responsibly as it looks, with low running costs and a future-proof specification.

Ultimately, Falcon House rises out of the rock with a scale and definition that combine function with thoughtfully considered materials. In doing so, it earns its place in the landscape — not by dominating it, but by belonging to it entirely.