Bowen Island House / bai architects

Bowen Island House / bai architects - Beam, FacadeBowen Island House / bai architects - Image 3 of 23Bowen Island House / bai architects - Image 4 of 23Bowen Island House / bai architects - Windows, ForestBowen Island House / bai architects - More Images+ 18

Bowen Island, Canada

Text description provided by the architects. Location

Bowen Island is approximately 30 minutes by ferry from Vancouver, BC. The property is south facing, with a view over the Straight of Georgia and Vancouver.

Bowen Island House / bai architects - Facade, Forest
© Michael Boland

Inspiration

The design was inspired by the old fish and boat storage structures common in the fishing villages dotted along the B.C. coastline. Integrated into the process from these structures is a simple, linear, utilitarian methodology where roof and walls are cladded in the same materials, creating a seamless transition between structure and size.

Bowen Island House / bai architects - Beam, Bedroom, Deck
© Michael Boland

Lighting

At night, the south facing facades constructed of floor to ceiling butted glass glow with interior light, and act as a beacon to the shore. The north side main entry is also fully glazed and acts as a welcome gesture to guests as they approach the home from the end of a long walkway.

Bowen Island House / bai architects - Table, Wood, Chair, Beam, Windows
© Michael Boland

Design challenge

From day one we faced the challenge of an existing building design scheme, which mandated an Arts and Crafts vernacular. The building envelope also mandated a retention of the existing coastal fir stand. Our goal was to retain the existing stand of Arbutus trees and coastal Firs and to wrap the program around these assets, which was accepted by the developer. The retention of these natural assets would be a fair trade to the Arts & Crafts vernacular.

Bowen Island House / bai architects - Beam, Facade, Windows, Handrail
© Michael Boland

Project gallery

See allShow less
About this office
Cite: "Bowen Island House / bai architects" 24 Jul 2011. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/153116/bowen-island-house-bai-architects> ISSN 0719-8884

You've started following your first account!

Did you know?

You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.