Carport / Gateway

Ottawa, Ontario

This sculptural, slatted wood structure acts as both a snow shelter for cars and a celebration of arrival for a narrow entry garden.

Translucent sliding side screens on the sides increase protection from blowing snow at critical times of year and permit important landscape views in other seasons when pulled out of the way.

The overhead structure creates an interesting pattern of shade over the entry path and a key celebration of arrival as a gateway to the more private portions of the front garden.

One end of the enormous overhead timber beam is supported by a double wood post onto which is mounted a sculpted stainless steel fabrication. One portion is illuminated and punched out with the street address while the other is a mailbox placed to shorten the postal worker's trek in inclement weather.

Awards:

• Winner, Housing Details - 2011 Greater Ottawa Home Builders Association (GOHBA) Awards