The Barker cabin on Savary Island, B.C. is an off-grid summer retreat. The concept embodies childhood memories of a cabin once owned by the family’s grandparents. It was imagined that the doors would be wide open with a welcome flow of vacationers running in and out to the beach while someone else might be reading in a quiet nook overlooking the scenery. The floorplan is very transparent and centralized for gathering inside and out, with a private loft and bath on the upper level and the kids bunkroom opening onto the lower deck for maximum flexibility. Affordability and low maintenance were key issues in the design. Large overhangs protect from both coastal winter storms and summer heat while passive solar clerestory windows allow for abundant natural light during the darker months. Solar panels, wood heat and a back up generator provide power.

Owner/carpenter Jim Barker has been finishing the cabin over time, creating his own details and furniture with local beach wood and cedar. It’s delightful to see the cabin being enjoyed with such care.

Builders: Ken Palfrey (Palfrey Construction) with Jim Barker
Size: Approx. 1100 sq ft.