Regina home wins architectural award

Jane Arthur and her husband David embarked on a one-of-a-kind construction project back in 2014. Fast forward a decade later, and their home in Regina’s Cathedral neighbourhood has clinched the title in the Urban House and Villa category at the prestigious World Architecture Festival.

“It all started on a whim when we contacted them expressing our interest in building a house, especially since David is a skilled craftsman himself. We thought of it as a unique craft project, although building a house is quite a grand endeavor. And from there, things just took off,” Jane shared.

The house was meticulously designed by the renowned 5468796 Architecture firm based in Winnipeg. Colin Neufeld, the principal architect at 5468796 Architecture, emphasized the significance of this accolade.

“This project holds a special place in our hearts. Working with such wonderful clients in such a unique setting was truly inspiring. Even though we’re from Winnipeg and not Regina, we have a deep appreciation for the Prairies. We firmly believe that the Prairies have the potential to produce world-class architecture, buildings, and professionals, and we strive to showcase that,” Neufeld explained.

Interestingly, this recent title is not the first one bestowed upon the Arthur house. In 2020, the home received a similar honor in the design category after the original concept was submitted for consideration.

While garnering awards was not the primary goal when constructing the house, Jane expressed the joy of having their hard work recognized.

“It was definitely exciting and validating of the choices we made. Of course, there’s always something that can be improved or changed, but overall, the concept of the house has really come together well. It’s a beautiful home to live in,” she reflected.

For Jane and David, this project was more than just a construction endeavor. It became their sanctuary, with David assuming the role of contractor and crafting all the furniture within the house.

“We envisioned a house that showcased craftsmanship, given David’s expertise in the field. We also aimed to use natural materials that would age gracefully over time, making it a timeless abode that would stand the test of time,” Jane elaborated.

Moreover, the house was designed with their love for gardening in mind. During the warmer months, the surroundings bloom with vibrant flowers, particularly tulips, adding to the charm of the property.

The process of obtaining permits for the unconventional house was quite challenging, with David overseeing the construction, much of which was done in Winnipeg and then transported to Regina for final assembly. The timber frame, comprising the top floor of the house, was imported from Winnipeg, adding to the uniqueness of the structure.

With curved walls and intricate details, the house exudes a sense of serenity and refuge, making it a truly special place for Jane and David to call home.