Douglas fir villa is one of those homes that most dream of owning. Located in a pristine and picturesque
Reserve forest area, it is set against the backdrop of snow clad peaks perched at an a
-ltitude of 7,500 feet in Himachal Pradesh. The private residence is built on one of the farming terraces, with views and vistas on three sides, the longer length facing the south side to let in sunlight and opening over the lower terrace allowing breath-taking views. Also it needs to be noted that the site falls in earthquakes seismic zone 5.
The requirements
Multiple challenges needed to be overcome for translating the design and vision of the architect into reality. It was important to provide earthquake resistance and ensure ductility due to extreme weather conditions of the region. Use of wood was critical to the design of the structure. Other applications such as doors, windows, furniture and millwork also needed to be produced in wood in alignment with the aesthetic feature of the home.
The exterior of the villa is a quintessential stone and wood structure. It carries a distinct charm of colonial-style bungalows that dot popular hill-stations and tea gardens. The large verandah is the perfect setting for idyllic afternoons spent in conversation while admiring the beauty of the surroundings or simply curling up with a book and a mug of coffee.
Roof trim made in douglas fir are the small details that make a big difference
As you enter the house, the focal point is a large spanned room with the ceiling in a beautiful post and beam structure made out of douglas fir wood,. It also performs the important function of providing earthquake resistance to the structure. The roof houses a skylight that floods the interiors with natural, soothing light during the day and supports ventilation.
Louvered doors and windows in douglas fir are important aesthetic and functional features that promote ventilation. The rustic flooring is kept natural bringing out the natural pink tone of douglas fir to the hilt.
This cozy verandah is a product of stained douglas fir flooring combined with large columns in the same material
Large 16 feet table in finger-jointed short spans of knotty spruce-pine-fir (SPF) is a center piece that is perfect for meals and conversations.
The bookshelf is a combination of
douglas fir with bricks and OSB board to create an interesting look
The bedrooms feature large format sliding doors in douglas fir that immediately help the user transition from indoors to outdoors. Douglas fir louvered windows add an extra dollop of charm.
Picturesque locale, abundance of nature and a wooden cottage - this is a combination that can never go wrong. Use of sustainable, high-performance and beautiful
Canadian Wood species like douglas fir and spruce-pine-fir (SPF) have not just created the perfect architectural solution for earthquake resistance and insulation, but have also translated it into a beautiful space that inspires.