Award of Merit

Bohemier Residence
Winnipeg, Manitoba

Category: Recent Work
Architect: Cohlmeyer Architecture Ltd. & 5468796 Architecture Inc.
Owner/Client: Bohemier Family
Structural Engineer: Hanusghak Consultants Inc.
Contractor: Sakiyama Construction

The Project

The Victoria Crescent site of this private residence encompasses two former river lots in one 100 foot by 400 foot heavily treed parcel on the Red River.

The essence of the old house on the site, not its physical presence, becomes the centre of the new residence. The original foundation is preserved as a sunken courtyard, turning the former spatial arrangement inside out – house to courtyard, yard to house, solid to void to solid – allowing the ghost of the old house to remain. A bridge links the carport to the main entry across the sunken courtyard, taking one over and through the void, into the house. A hidden panoramic view of the river beyond is revealed upon entering the vaulted hall, further connecting the landscape with the interior.