Projects That Weather the Storm

Here's what we've been working on – real buildings for real Canadian winters. Each project taught us something new about designing spaces that don't just survive harsh climates, they thrive in 'em.

Alpine Residence

Whistler Alpine Residence

This one was a challenge – building on a steep slope at 1,200m elevation. Client wanted floor-to-ceiling windows but we're talking -25°C winters here. Ended up spec'ing triple-pane with argon fill and designing these deep overhangs that keep snow off the glass. Geothermal heating does most of the heavy lifting.

Residential Winter Climate Energy-Efficient
Tech Campus

Kelowna Tech Campus

35,000 sq ft of office space that stays warm without breaking the bank. The secret? Passive solar orientation and a thermal mass system we borrowed from Scandinavian designs.

Commercial Energy-Efficient
Heritage Restoration

Gastown Heritage Home

1912 character house that was basically hemorrhaging heat. Had to walk a tightrope between heritage preservation and making it livable. Upgraded the envelope from the inside, kept all the original millwork. Now it's actually comfortable year-round.

Heritage Residential
Lakefront Cabin

Okanagan Lakefront Retreat

Four-season cabin that gets proper winter exposure. Designed the roof pitch at 45 degrees so snow slides right off – learned that lesson the hard way on earlier projects.

Residential Winter Climate
Mountain Lodge

Big White Mountain Lodge

Hospitality project for 80 guests that needed to handle serious snowfall – we're talking 7+ meters annually. The structural engineering alone took months. Built the entrance as a wind lock system, massive radiant floor heating throughout, and designed the utility access so staff don't have to dig through snow drifts.

Commercial Winter Climate Energy-Efficient
Passive House

North Shore Passive House

Our first certified Passive House project. Air-tightness testing was nerve-wracking but we nailed it. Heating costs? About $40/month even in January.

Residential Energy-Efficient
Brewery Conversion

Railtown Brewery Conversion

Turned a 1920s warehouse into a working brewery and taproom. Original timber beams were in great shape, just needed proper insulation between the brick courses.

Commercial Heritage
Nordic Inspired Home

Squamish Nordic-Inspired Home

Clients fell in love with Scandinavian design after a trip to Norway. We adapted those principles for BC's coastal climate – similar latitude, way more moisture. Lots of natural wood, south-facing glazing, compact form factor. The heat recovery ventilator was crucial for maintaining air quality without losing warmth.

Residential Winter Climate Energy-Efficient
Community Center

Prince George Community Hub

Public building that needed to work for -30°C winters and stay under budget. Solar panels on the roof offset about 60% of electrical costs.

Commercial Energy-Efficient

Got a Project in Mind?

Whether you're dealing with extreme cold, heritage constraints, or just want a building that doesn't fight against the climate – let's talk about it.

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