In the heart of downtown Oakville, Atelier Sun has crafted a residence for an art collector that is a true testament to the interplay of forms, light, and emotion. Drawing inspiration from the evocative paintings of Mark Rothko, this architectural marvel is a study in proportion and feeling, transforming its appearance and ambiance throughout the day.

The white stucco exterior of the house acts as a canvas, punctuated by black siding and window openings. During the day, these elements act as striking accents against the pristine white surface. As dusk approaches, the architecture's outline melds into the darkening sky, and a warm glow from the interior lights spills through the windows, casting a luminous hue on the façade. This dynamic interaction of light and shadow imparts the building with a set of pure pictorial properties—color, surface, proportion, and scale.

Inside, the design language remains consistent, with white walls and white oak wood floors providing a seamless, monolithic backdrop. The open living concept is anchored by a series of millwork that separate the living and dining areas from the foyer. These textured millwork and stone elements create gateways and framed views, enhancing the overall mood and experience of the space. Windows capture views in all directions, allowing natural light to penetrate and dance within the interior at various angles throughout the day. The light not only emphasizes the geometric harmony of the architecture, but expands the range of feelings a space can hold.

"Just like Mark Rothko’s paintings, we wanted to evoke emotion through the architecture and interior design," explains Andrew Sun of Atelier Sun.

The result is a residence that is not just a home, but a living, breathing work of art, where every element—from the overall form to the smallest detail—works together to create a space that is as emotionally resonant as it is visually stunning.