Boar Shoat House

Off-grid living is something that is sure to appeal to a lot of people out there, especially in these times of social distancing, and when the off-grid home in question is as visually impressive and relaxing as the Boar Shoat House from Imbue Design Architects, that desire is sure to go through the roof. Contemporary, understated design is the order of the day with this classy piece of architecture and we’re big fans here at Coolector HQ.

Located in Idaho, Boar Shoat House from Imbue Design Architects is a low-lying off-grid residence positioned on a desolate, grassy lot and has been created for a family to help distance themselves from social stresses of modern living. The architects designed this for a family looking for an isolated place it could go to as a retreat in Paris, Idaho.

Sizeable Footprint

There is a substantial footprint to work with on Boar Shoat House from Imbue Design who have nestled the 2,125-square-foot (197-square-metre) compound, which comprises a garage, main residence, and guest house, into a grassy berm which is surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. The clients wanted a retreat – a refuge where he and his family could separate themselves from social stresses, withdraw digital connection, and commune with nature and each other.

Consisting of three separated structures clad with strips of brown metal panelling from Kingspan which enclose an expansive outdoor living space, the Boar Shoat House from Imbue Design is a great looking retreat ideally suited for rest and relaxation. The large roof canopy is layered above and connects each of them to form a single volume. Cut into the covering is an oculus that cascades light onto the patio, and extends outward from the tri-form structure.

Designed as a crash pad and base camp, three small structures gather under an open-air pavilion with the Boar Shoat House and encapsulates the client’s main idea for the project – namely, a sparse, minimalistic shelter within the Bear River range. As there are no utility connections close by, the house uses several passive and off-grid design strategies, which includes photovoltaic panelling on the roof and insulation and sealing techniques to achieve a tight building envelope.

Green Living

There is an array of solar panels on the roof of Boar Shoat House which generate the electricity and heat to power the house, while water is delivered via a cistern container, located in the garage, that is refilled regularly by a local supplier. Each of the windows and sliding glass doors are situated to take in sunlight that warms the interiors in wintertime, while the roof overhangs are designed to shade and minimise heat in summer months.

Within each of the buildings, wood planks are used to line the ceiling and concrete floors are left untreated to keep the markings that will be left on them over time. All of the interior walls are white to form a backdrop for the artwork created by the client’s daughters and there is a pleasing sense of minimalism throughout the entire home.