Original green architect now right at home in the office
Ottawa’s original green architect has designed and built her own condo building and invited friends to live there, too
When Linda Chapman and her husband, Barry Cooper, decided it was time to downsize, the architect drew up plans to design and build their own home and invited longtime friends to join them.
With a vision of living and working in a condo that met her rigorous energy-efficient and green standards and desire for a builtin community within walking distance of amenities, Chapman began the process of building a four-unit condo on a double lot she purchased in 2009 in New Edinburgh. After selling a unit to good friends who loved the idea, they in turn told their friends who also jumped on board. Chapman got down to work and oversaw the entire project, which was built by Engel Construction.
“It was a crazy time. I have a whole new appreciation for developers and financing projects — my hat goes off to them. It’s a whole different skill set,” says Chapman, who admits she broke even on the project.
The couple moved into MacKay Mews, their ultra-modern, fourplex development on MacKay Street, last spring. Located near shops, restaurants and the grounds of Rideau Hall, Chapman says they are ready for the next stage in their lives.
Super-insulated, the airtight building was built to a passivehouse standard and has a sophisticated air exchange system and triple-glaze windows. It is clad in corrugated galvanized steel — Chapman’s signature design — and white cement boards.
“By 2030, all homes in Canada will be built to a passive standard. There is a cost — it’s not cheap. Hopefully, governments will give more rebates, but we need to make a dent in our energy consumption.”
Originally from Toronto, Chapman moved to Ottawa after the real estate crash in the 1990s and opened a solo practice specializing in green architecture and strawbale construction.
She cemented her reputation as Ottawa’s green architect guru when she led the building of Mountain Equipment Co-op in 1999 along with Christopher Simmonds Architect Inc.
“We designed MEC to a LEED gold standard before there was such a rating in Canada. I’m lucky I have a niche client who is interested in green.”
With her dentist husband now semi-retired, Chapman, who closed her Centretown practice and now works from home, is keen to focus on four to five “fun” projects a year.
“We call this our aging plan for our golden years and wanted a more urban lifestyle. It’s wonderful to be able to walk everywhere,” says Chapman, who lived with Cooper in a four-bedroom, country-style home in Chelsea, Que., for more than a dozen years.
Located up a set of steep stairs, Chapman’s 2,000-square-foot condo opens into a bright, open-concept kitchen and living area. Walls are painted white throughout with pops of colourful art and a delightful mix of mid-century modern furnishings. A serene Japanese esthetic pervades the home and Chapman admits a trip to Southeast Asia is on their bucket list.
A Caesarstone dining table, which was once in Chapman’s boardroom office on Argyle Avenue, sits in the middle of the room with funky straight-back, 30-yearold dining chairs with padded seats.
“I love older furniture as it’s made with real wood,” says Chapman, who shops at Vintage Moderns, A Fine Thing Antiques Ottawa, The White Monkey and Toronto’s Modern Weave.
Appliances are hidden behind the two-tone walnut cabinetry from Muskoka Kitchen and Bath, while the expansive island has a handy dishwasher tucked below for easy access.
The countertops and backsplash were fabricated by Stone Design Concept in a marble look-alike called Zodiaq Calacatta Natura.
Chapman has a penchant for floating cabinets and the visual impact of asymmetrical design.
“I love things that float in spaces,” she says.
“I’ve had a few guests question why I wanted a square hood fan above the stove, but to me it’s art.”
The chic living area with raised gas fireplace looks out over a sweeping balcony with views of Ottawa’s skyline. A little nook contains Cooper’s record player, stereo equipment and impressive CD and vinyl collection. A mandolin player, Cooper’s instruments can be found on display throughout the home.
Chapman’s sunny office also features her grandmother’s reupholstered loveseat where the couple curl up to watch television. Several glass trophies in recognition of her winning projects from the Greater Ottawa Home Builders’ Association are lined up along a window sill.
Upstairs, the master bathroom has a European feel with freestanding shower next to a soaking bathtub.
“I didn’t want any glass in the shower and used Ikea cabinetry. I love how the asymmetrical design works here.
“It feels minimalistic, open and airy.”
A second bedroom, just off the landing that overlooks the living room, doubles as a guest room and Cooper’s office.
The couple enjoy entertaining — Cooper is known as Mr. Barbecue — and visiting with their neighbours at MacKay Mews.
The building has four parking spaces, a garbage room and communal exercise room where the residents have pooled together their gym equipment, like a rowing machine and treadmill.
“We all sit on our condo board and genuinely enjoy each other’s company and often have drinks and dinner together.
“It’s a special place and has worked out perfectly.”