Perched along the rugged Bay of Chaleur in New Brunswick, Canada, The Sandbox is a contemporary, three-story timber-clad residence designed by Halifax-based Peter Braithwaite Studio. Completed in 2023 for a couple who run a local excavation business, the home was conceived as a resilient and thoughtful beach house that celebrates both its dramatic coastal location and the local construction trades. The design is a deliberate contrast of elements, combining a minimalist, boxy form with robust, durable materials chosen to withstand the harsh Atlantic climate of heavy winds and rain. The exterior is clad in Eastern white cedar and weathering steel, which will gracefully age and patina over time to blend with the weathered shoreline. A striking Corten steel staircase wraps around the building's exterior, leading to an elevated viewing deck that offers expansive vistas of the bay. This industrial detailing, along with the home's sturdy construction, gives it a tough, resilient character. Inside, the home is a celebration of craftsmanship, light, and an open layout designed to connect with the landscape. A custom-built kitchen island serves as a central hearth for social gatherings, while strategically placed windows frame views and fill the space with natural light. The material palette is a thoughtful mix of timber, plywood, and other natural materials. A master bedroom hovers over the living area, featuring a glazed corner that allows for immersive views of the bay. The home's design and build were approached on a humble budget, with local connections to regional trades and manufacturers fostering lasting relationships and resulting in a well-crafted dwelling built to last. Project credits Architecture and Design-Build: Peter Braithwaite Studio Client: Joshua and Chelsea Jenks Photography: Ema Peter