Overview

We were very blessed to work with these clients who came to us with a wooded lot in North Saanich and wanted to create a home for themselves that worked with their lifestyle and aesthetic. Both clients are avid bikers and kayakers and wanted to be able to get out and enjoy the outdoors and be able to feel like they lived in the wilderness of B.C.

We completed as little tree removal as necessary, including putting effort into maintaining the fern and salal landscape that encompassed the woodlands surrounding the project. Staging area for construction and material storage were also limited, and scheduling the subtrades for their work was tight, but with competent site management, we left the site in a natural state.

The energy efficiency was close to net zero, but the solar component and the proximity of the many trees made it difficult to attain a complete net zero level. We included a 6” rock wool exterior insulation layer around the entire home, under-slab insulation and other key items to maximize the efficiency of the living areas. Additional seismic components were also included to increase the longevity of the home and protection of the occupants should a seismic event occur.

The interior spaces are attractive and feel larger than they are, enhancing the cozy space by the intentionally designed window vistas into the property. The open-tread stairs lead you through a vaulted, skylight-lit stairway into the upper fitness loft and then into the primary bedroom suite space. This suite includes large bedroom windows and a second-floor deck to enjoy the vistas beyond of the treed landscape.

Joining the two sections of the building, you is a pass through utility hall leading to the garage. In this hall there is ample closet space, a laundry and mudroom area and a main floor bathroom. Mechanical spaces are hidden in the attic and crawlspace. Views from the garage windows are also welcoming where you can encounter the forest beyond.

Finally, we included the design of a legal separate secondary suite into the plan for guests or future rental income. The suite entry was created to be completely separate but also include its own creative entry window off the enclosed deck for some covered outdoor BBQ or deck space.

The views from both the home and suite are relaxed woodland views, obscuring other dwellings nearby and allowing our clients the opportunity to relax in private whether indoors or out. If you love a modern, private space and great views, we can help create just the home for you!