Gulf Islands House
This was a straightforward project, a two bedroom home for a young family with a modest budget. The small 1/3 acre site is unremarkable except for a good aspect (lots of sun, and shelter from winter storms) and the presence of four old apple trees. Given these parameters, the objective was to derive maximum benefit from the sun and the site, so orientation to the existing trees, to the sun, and to cool breezes from the adjacent valley were carefully considered.
The project has proven to be a success. The house is a pleasure to live in and is very cheap to operate, using only about 25% of the energy of a conventional house of the same size. From sunrise to sunset, the sky is a constant presence, making everyone aware of the character of the day. Electric lights are needed only at night, and the house can be heated even in the deepest winter using just the wood stove. In the winter, the house is very social, with all of the action happening in the main room. In the summertime, when the doors are open, it is as cool as sitting under a tree, and the light reflected off the dried grass outside is warm and even.
Client: Private Homeowner
Location: Mayne Island, BC
Completion: 2010