top of page
01_ DBA-TERRACE-JP-0251.jpg

GARDEN HOUSE ON CHEBUCTO

Located behind an existing home on Halifax's historic Chebucto Road, this backyard suite demonstrates how thoughtful infill can enrich established neighborhoods through careful, small-scale intervention.

Conceived as a contemporary garden house, the 735-square-foot dwelling creates a quiet retreat within the mature landscape of the city's West End while preserving the character of the original property. Developed in collaboration with metal fabricator Marc Schaedler of Urban Handcraft, the project explores the architectural potential of steel beyond its conventional role as an accent material. Structure, cladding, millwork, lighting, furnishings, and architectural details work together as a unified system, creating a durable, expressive material language designed to weather gracefully in Atlantic Canada's climate. Working within a compact footprint and the constraints of Halifax's backyard suite regulations, the design maximizes both openness and functionality. A sheltered courtyard establishes a strong relationship between the suite and the existing residence, while generous glazing brings natural light deep into the interior. Inside, a double-height living space creates a sense of volume that belies the building's modest scale. Polished concrete floors, an exposed steel structure, and a sculptural stair define the primary living area, while custom-fabricated steel elements integrate cabinetry, lighting, shelving, railings, and furnishings throughout. A loft bedroom overlooks the main living space, reinforcing the home's open, flexible character. Fabricated almost entirely off site and assembled with precision, the project demonstrates the efficiencies of modular construction while showcasing steel as both a practical building system and a refined architectural material. The result is a compact dwelling that balances innovation, craftsmanship, and everyday living.
02_ DBA-TERRACE-JP-0262.jpg

The project explores the architectural potential of steel beyond its conventional role as an accent material. Structure, cladding, millwork, lighting, furnishings, and architectural details work together as a unified system, creating a durable, expressive material language designed to weather gracefully in Atlantic Canada's climate.

PROJECT DETAILS

Size: 735 sq ft

Project Type: New Construction

Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia

General Contractor: Urban Handcraft

Team: Stefano Sani, P.Eng (structural), Plants for People (landscape design)

Photography: Julian Parkinson

Publications: Dwell+

  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn

© 2026 DB ARCHITECTURE

Where Collaboration Meets Craft.

902-477-2022

2093 Maitland Street, Halifax, NS, B3K 2Z8

bottom of page