Coolihans Residence

Caledon, ON

Design & Build: Harnett Homes, LTD

Project Overview

Set within the rolling hills of Caledon, Ontario, the Coolihans Residence is currently under construction as a custom home designed to blend timeless architecture with modern living. Carefully positioned within a mature woodland setting, the residence responds to the site’s natural topography while maximizing views through expansive glazing and thoughtfully integrated outdoor spaces.

Designed with durability and low maintenance in mind, the home combines contemporary detailing with natural materials that complement its rural surroundings.

Material Selection & Design Intent

The exterior features CUSTOM charred Western Red Cedar in a select tight knot grade, chosen for its rich texture, natural character, and long-term performance. The presence of knots and subtle variation adds warmth to the modern cottage aesthetic, while the charred finish provides a refined appearance that complements the exposed timber detailing throughout the design.

The project team selected a 1×8 profile to reinforce the home’s clean architectural lines while taking advantage of the durability and weather resistance offered by the Shou Sugi Ban charring process.

Specification & Project Collaboration

During the design phase, RESAWN provided a range of shou sugi ban samples to help the project team evaluate different finishes and determine the best fit for the home’s design, budget, and performance requirements. After reviewing the available options, the team selected a custom charred Western Red Cedar solution tailored to the project.

To support installation and evaluate long-term weathering, a full-scale field mockup was constructed on site. Throughout the specification process, RESAWN also provided installation guidance and technical documentation to help ensure the cladding was detailed and installed as intended.