The Conifers: Modern living among old growth

A cedar and black aluminium clad West-Coast Contemporary cabin Custom Build surrounded by coniferous forest — **OCb01—THE CONIFERS**

A West-Coast Contemporary cabin Custom Build by Lincoln Construction
**Home Designer**: Gnar Inc., Whistler, BC
**Builder**: Lincoln Construction , Sunshine Coast, BC
**Design Services**: BC Passive House, Mount Currie, BC
**Sustainability Consultant**: CarbonWise, Vancouver, BC
**Location:** Lower Sunshine Coast, BC
**Completion Year**: 2023
**Details**: 2 beds/ 2 baths/1028 sq. feet/BC Energy Step Code 5

Photographer:
Kevin Jamieson
KRJ Photos

INTRODUCTION

Nestled amidst the upland forested area of the Sunshine Coast, BC, The Conifers stands 3 storeys tall, a symbol of harmony between the old and the new.

Every layer of the residence tells a tale of contemporary design, sustainability, and an intimate connection with nature. With ocean views from every level, this 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom sanctuary serves as a tranquil retreat for those who love a space that celebrates the outdoors as much as artfully designed interiors.

INSIGHT

The Conifers is a dream realized. The homeowner (T) dreamed of a space where eco-conscious design meets West Coast aesthetics. T wanted a home that offered the coziness and warmth of a traditional cabin while still indulging in the comforts of modern luxuries and design.

As a conscientious nature-lover working in sustainability leadership, T decided that a home that could stand as a statement of responsibility towards our planet would be the most sensitive way to move forward with a new build. With carbon reduction forming the core ethos and an energy-efficient home as the goal, the project began.

T chose to work with our esteemed partners GNAR inc. a sustainable building design firm based out of Whistler, BC. Together, they transformed her aspirations into tangible blueprints, crafting a vision that merged T’s imagination with reality.

THE VISION

THE BUILD

Reclaim & Reuse: Merging contemporary elegance with nature and sustainability, the reclaimed cedar cladding from UnBuilder adds distinct character to the build and the use of natural materials for moisture protection is especially appealing in such a stunning natural environment.

Harnessing Solar Gains: Careful planning and architectural ingenuity on Gnar Incs part ensured that the home remains energy-efficient, harnessing solar energy to pass through glazing and gently heat the home.

Watertight Wonders: Recognizing the need for top-tier insulation and security, we integrated high-performance Innotech windows and doors. Revered for their unparalleled quality, these installations guarantee thermal efficiency, safety, and aesthetic brilliance. Innotech tilt and turn windows achieve exceptional energy efficiency, air tightness, water resistance and sound control.

Implementing Passive House Standards: Although not a passive house, the incorporation of British Columbia Passive House panels was pivotal in ensuring The Conifers met BC Energy Code Step 5 standards.

Decked Out: The choice of cedar for the wraparound deck was twofold. While cedar offers durability and aesthetic appeal, its natural preservatives stand up to the elements in all climates.

THE OUTCOME

Award-winning

Winner of the prestigious ‘Small Buildings Award, BC’ — BC Embodied Carbon Awards ‘23

“This is a single home where the client went beyond regular construction standards. The design team reduced whole life carbon, prioritising both embodied carbon and operational carbon reduction and achieving step code five.” — Zebx, Vancouver Zero Emissions Building Exchange

“Is this the most sustainable house in B.C.?” — Pique News Magazine

Integration with Nature

With the property surrounded by mature trees and each level offering ocean views, the design blurs the lines between the indoors and outdoors. The home stands not as an intrusion, but as a harmonious extension of the woodland.

BC Energy Code Step 5 designation

Meeting the stringent standards of BC Step Code 5, this residence stands as a beacon of energy efficiency and sustainable building practices ensuring comfort with minimal environmental impact. This high step-code home has been constructed as net-zero energy ready (NZER), meaning it produces as much energy as it consumes.

Featured

Sleek simplicity

A harmonious blend of minimalistic design and functional elegance, this modern kitchen seamlessly marries state-of-the-art appliances with pristine finishes.

Light luminescence

Bathed in natural light, this ultra-modern kitchen showcases gleaming countertops, streamlined cabinetry, and innovative fixtures.

Cedar heights

The cedar deck is perfect for enjoying a breathtaking view that captivates the essence of its surroundings.

Brilliant corners

Each corner of this intentional space serves a purpose

Timeless materials

The striking contrast of black aluminum meets the warm tones of cedar wood cladding, embodying a sophisticated blend of modern design with nature's timeless touch

Welcome woods

As the path meanders through the ancient woods, a modern cabin emerges.

Tilt & Turn

Innotech tilt and turn windows achieve exceptional energy efficiency, air tightness, water resistance and sound control.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The Conifers is more than just a dwelling; it's a guide to the future of sustainable living in BC, where design, functionality, and respect for nature converge. This type of build sets a gold standard for eco-conscious residences and shows what's possible when innovation and open-mindedness play together.

Got an idea for a custom build that you’re ready to bring to life? Get in touch for a free consultation.

If you enjoyed exploring The Conifers, check out The Fjord, another Lincoln Construction custom build.

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