Setless Architecture has crafted a striking residence perched on the edge of the Niagara Escarpment in Dundas, Ontario, right above the Bruce Trail. Wrapped in dark brick and warm wood, Fallsview Residence blends into its natural surroundings while embracing contemporary design and curated comfort.
From the start, the build had to respect strict conservation guidelines due to its location within a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. But instead of limiting creativity, these constraints led to a design that feels grounded, intentional, and deeply connected to its environment.
The home’s low, elongated form and earthy materials, like brick and wood, echo the tones of the escarpment and surrounding forest, offering a quiet counterpoint to the dramatic Spencer Gorge views below.
Floor-to-ceiling black-framed windows are a defining feature of the home. More than just a source of daylight, they act as portals to the landscape: framing treetops, letting in shifting patterns of sunlight, and keeping the outdoors always within reach.
One of the home’s living areas is bright and serene, with white walls that frame leafy glimpses of the surrounding forest. It’s a space designed for stillness and reflection, where light shifts throughout the day and nature feels just a glance away.
The second living space brings more warmth. Centered around a fireplace and finished with custom steelwork, it can expand outward when sliding doors open to the covered deck, creating a natural flow between indoors and out.
The kitchen is both functional and artistic. Ample storage is paired with a cut-out display niche, perfect for showcasing artwork from the homeowners’ collection. It’s a space that balances utility with personal expression, echoing the thoughtful details found throughout the home.
In the bedroom, nature comes inside in more than just the views. A wood-covered feature wall channels the surrounding forest, bringing texture and warmth to the serene space. Simple, calming, and grounded, the room is a retreat within a retreat.
Through considered materials, respectful design, and a focus on light and art, this home offers a deeply peaceful way to inhabit one of Ontario’s most beautiful landscapes.
Photography by Sandy Rush Photography
