Traditional Tudor Revival

Clients:

THE
TRADITIONAL
TUDOR REVIVAL

CONTEMPORARY

The Traditional Tudor Revival was designed by Jesse to be a stunning embodiment of the timeless character that original renditions of the Tudor home, including Athelhampton house, have offered since the late 1400’s, His design process was centred around the unique masonry details that make these homes so special, offering both a sense of architectural interest and historic acknowledgement to the viewer. This level of detailed masonry is rarely seen today, as the skill set required to execute these details properly is increasingly a dying art. However, in the spirit of gracing a Toronto neighbourhood with timelessly historical character, Jesse meticulously designed each detail to offer a nod to original renditions of this design style.

The stone bay window was a specific detail Jesse was quite passionate about, as it added a sense of “solidity” to the front facade in a way that no other feature could. The bay window is inclusive of limestone mullions, a feature that furthers the accuracy of Jesse’s rendition of this style. He also designed a stepped cornice base for this bay window, a feature that mimics what would have served as support for the window when stone was used for the structure of these homes.

The front door vestibule features unique gable proportions that accurately capture the subtly medieval character of this design style. This central gable is shorter than the others, grounding what is certainly a grandly tall structure while creating an inviting entrance. The mixture of rough-faced limestone block, smooth front door header, “toothed’ window opening surrounds, and unique spires all add to the authentically timeless ethos of this historical design style.

CONTEMPORARY

One of the standout features that Jesse designed for this unique home is the luxurious front entrance gardens that add such character to the front lawn as bulbs of boxwood and cedar topiary replace the traditional grass front yard. These gardens were designed after The Gardens of Marqueyssac, a wonderfully kept garden that stuns any visitor who crosses its path. The ambient garden and architectural lighting Jesse designed to highlight these gardens is a notable feature on its own, serving to showcase his favorite exterior features and plant selections while adding depth to the design during the evening hours. This same lighting serves to create a unique environment in the rear entertainment spaces during the evening hours.

The unique chimney profile that Jesse designed serves to add a contemporary touch to the facade while still paying homage to the proportions of the original design style. These stone masonry details are, without question, the star of the show. However, the placement of these chimneys within the roofline serves a specific purpose as well. By setting the chimneys lower Jesse “grounds” the design, lowering its overall height and visual profile upon approach.

The arched front and garage door openings are a simple feature that add a visual “update” to the style. And while these features may seem simple, the subtly sleek profile Jesse designed for these archways tells a different story. The front door features a stepped bevel detail that surrounds both the front door itself as well as the vestibule entrance. The garage, on the other hand features stone column details on either side of it that hold up a smooth limestone panel detail in place of the commonly used keystone feature.

The diamond slate roof and diamond pattern window mullions were both period-specific selections that support Jesse in his hunt to capture the character of this age-old design style. These features also add an inherent hue of sturdiness and stability to the design, especially when you notice the full stone dormer that floats within the diamond slate-clad roofline. Historical accuracy becomes a specialty when you love touring these old manors and country homes, and in this case, it shows.

The rear facade and backyard entertainment area were designed with a similar thought of design authenticity and detail in mind. We want to point out that this rear facade is yet another great example of how Jesse uses this facade to characterize the backyard amenities and entertainment spaces. In Jesse’s eyes, this facade should be the most characteristic as it serves as the backdrop for your enjoyment of master-planned amenities that feel like an extension of the interior spaces.

The stone bay window and Juliet balcony that is accessible from the principal bedroom are notable features within the rear facade design plan. The bay window is clad in smooth limestone panels, serving to break up the rough-faced texture of the rustic limestone facade.

The balcony overlooks the pool, featuring a beige and brown diamond pattern that adds a subtle eclectic charm to the environment Jesse created. The pool is visible from almost every space located at the rear of the floorplan, aiding in the creation of the indoor/outdoor connection.

The rear covered porch creates a charming lounge space that you can use for shade, protection from the elements, and as an entertaining space. This space looks onto the rear gardens and is surrounded by stone planter boxes clad with the same stone as the exterior facade to further create a sense of design cohesivity. These planter boxes were filled with specific plant selections, arguably Jesse’s favorite part of any project we commit to.

The English Manor