Multi-functional residence in Cotes Island, Canada by Balance Associates Architects

Located in Cortes Island, British Columbia, Canada, this simple but impressive residence was designed by Balance Associates Architects in 2011. The project team was composed of Tom Lenchek AIA, Principal; Kyle Zerby AIA, Project Architect and their job was to design a home that could be used as a vacation getaway and also as a fulltime residence in case the owners want to spend more time there. It was a challenge because of the landscape but in the end they managed to use those elements in their favor.

Vacation residence canada7

The 1,850 sqf residence is particularly welcoming during the summer when it’s a perfect getaway place where the owners can relax and clear their heads. Because of the location, the house is exposed to the Straight of Georgia which delivers extremely high wind speeds and salt spray during winter storms, so it’s less pleasant to be there during that season. However, the residence is embedded into bedrock and steel columns that provide a solid structure and protection.

Vacation residence canada7
Vacation residence canada7
Vacation residence canada7
Vacation residence canada7
Vacation residence canada7
Vacation residence canada7
Vacation residence canada7

In terms of interior design, the entry space is decorated with solid concrete forms and from there you can access the central great room. This area includes the living, dining and kitchen and opens up to a south facing exterior deck. Near that space there are also a guest suite and a study, located to the west and a master suite to the east. The house beautifully blends into the surroundings and offers relaxing and beautiful views to the lake and forest.