The story of this house renovation embodies the rare idea of entirely ‘re-purposing’ a small modest introverted ‘seed’ from another era into an equally small but highly resolved modern home built according to sustainable principles. Rather than adding on more square footage or ‘quantity of space’, the focus was on providing more ‘quality of space’ throughout by opening the house up through its center, improving views and relationships with nature, while increasing material refinement and improving energy efficiency. ‘Simplicity and honest expression of each material’ were the generative design principles used. The process was one of client commitment and collaboration with the many trades and artisans involved. The result is an open, inviting, calm and intimate home nestled within a rich coastal garden setting.

Locally sourced and reclaimed materials include: hand forged hardware, railings and stairs, solid wood kitchen cabinetry and furniture, reclaimed solid fir doors throughout, salvaged fir flooring, reclaimed fir beams, zinc roofing, local cedar shingles, reclaimed brick walkways, local chimney stone, and a fuel efficient radiant wood fireplace heater. The custom designed mechanical system and the energy rating achieved were the highest quality for its class of structure.

Builder: Jacob Rodgers of J. Norris Construction

Architecture/Interiors/Lighting/Cabinetry: websterdesign in collaboration with the owners and Jacob Rodgers

Landscape Design/Build: BioScapes Landscaping, Gibsons
Doors: Plexus, Naramata, B.C.
Forged Railing and Stair: Blacksmith Miran Elbakyan
Interior Photo’s: Jason Steeghs