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Skybox: A Modest Nova Scotia House by MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects

architecture-design · 2026-08-26

Skybox, a two-bedroom residence in Upper Kingsburg, Nova Scotia, has been finalized by MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects, drawing inspiration from traditional fishing shacks. Spanning 1,050 square feet, the home is perched on a steel framework, featuring an entrance deck that is set back from the street. The lower level comprises two bedrooms and a bathroom, while the upper floor includes the kitchen, dining, and living areas, enhanced by north-facing windows and a linear kitchen island. Clad in corrugated metal to withstand local weather, the architects view this project as a contribution to their exploration of 'village-making.' The Halifax and Lunenburg-based firm, led by Isaac Fresia, has earned over 170 accolades since its inception in 1985.

Key facts

  • Skybox is a 1,050-square-foot house with two bedrooms in Upper Kingsburg, Nova Scotia.
  • Designed by MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects, led by Brian MacKay-Lyons and Talbot Sweetapple.
  • The house is elevated on a slender steel structure above a sloping site.
  • The upper floor features a 'great room' with north-facing windows and a kitchen island with views over Romkey Pond and Hartling Bay.
  • Materials include exposed timber, steel ties, granite slabs, and corrugated metal cladding.
  • The project is part of the firm's ongoing research on 'village-making'.
  • The firm has received over 170 awards since its inception in 1985.
  • Project lead was Isaac Fresia; other principals include Melanie Hayne and Shane Andrews.

Entities

Artists

  • Brian MacKay-Lyons
  • Talbot Sweetapple
  • Melanie Hayne
  • Shane Andrews
  • Isaac Fresia

Institutions

  • MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects

Locations

  • Upper Kingsburg
  • Nova Scotia
  • Canada
  • Halifax
  • Lunenburg
  • Colorado
  • Massachusetts
  • Romkey Pond
  • Hartling Bay

Sources