tiny home – Rachel Dempster – SUNSHINE COAST REAL ESTATE AGENT

Humans of the Coast | S5 E1: A Conversation With Dolf Vermeulen Creative

Ross Dempster — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 17:14:55 +0000

If you haven’t heard the name Dolf Vermeulen yet, you will soon enough. This talented local filmer/photographer is becoming a household name thanks to his incredible talents, which have landed him some serious street cred this month.

Dolf is the brainchild behind the stunning new digital short A Tribute to the Sunshine Coast, which has been circulating on social media over the last few weeks. This heartfelt video features jaw dropping footage of The Coast, captured over several years. It’s set to a soulful musical arrangement, and paired with a vivid script, written by Amber Turnau of Substrate Studios and narrated by stenukws (Rita Poulsen) of the shíshálh Nation. This visually arresting piece has really struck a chord with people and received an outpouring of support; including some love in outdoor publication Mountain Life Magazine and our local rag The Coast Reporter.

So, where did a stunner like this originate?

“Over the last two or three years, I’ve just been stockpiling some amazing shots that I’m really proud of. I thought I should make a project that would allow me to share it,” Dolf explains, adding that he wanted to incorporate a meaningful message. Enter: stenukws, who shared her insights to help bring the narrative to life.

When he came to me with his vision for this project last year, I jumped at the chance to support it. Dolf, who moved to the Sunshine Coast with his family at the age of two, is the man behind the lens of my beautiful real estate imagery. I like to think of him as a key ingredient in my secret sauce as a realtor. His rich photography helps capture the gorgeous homes I sell up and down the Sunshine Coast.

I first met Dolf four years ago when he walked into the RE/MAX office, bright eyed bushy tailed (we had both just launched our businesses). I could see something in Dolf straight away. Having worked with creatives in the advertising industry for 20+ years, it was clear to me that he had some talent. I just thought: “This is my guy” for everything I had planned for my brand.

You might be surprised to learn that Dolf is a self-taught photographer and videographer, who might have ventured along a very different path had it not been for a series of events. The Robert Frost poem The Road Not Taken could tell you a thing or two about making choices that change the course of your life forever. In this case, it’s paid off big time for Dolf.

“I kind of had these big dreams of becoming a businessman and I guess making a lot of money and maybe having my own business,” says Dolf. “That switched for me when I was in university. I took one semester off and did some travelling. I was on a really tight budget and it was during that time that I realized that I had very little money, but I was so happy.”

If you already follow Dolf, you’ll notice that his visual storytelling often revolves around wild places and wildlife—typically shot here in BC or while travelling. This interest hit a fever pitch a few years ago, when a fishing lodge in Haida Gwaii hired him as their in-house photographer (his first paid photography job): “I think photography and the passion for the outdoors grew together in support of each other.”

The rest, as they say, is history.

Since his first gig on BC’s rugged coast, Dolf has gone on to work with a variety of clients, ranging from real estate and architecture to the marine industry. Check out his beautiful commercial work.

“It’s always been nature that inspires me. So whenever I can tie that into a project, it’s super exciting. I really like to work on tourism-related projects—especially nature-based tourism,” he says.

While he’s experienced many incredible moments on the Sunshine Coast, one particular memory comes to mind: He and his girlfriend, Katri, were hiking in the high alpine of the Coast Mountains as the sun rose and its radiant glow enveloped the range with tangerine hues. A magical morning, an epic shot, and a special memory (which you can spot in the tribute video).

Although Dolf has travelled abroad and lived in other places, he always returns to this place, his forever home that brings him so much joy.

“Living on the Sunshine Coast, I’ve grown to really love it. As much as I love travelling, I think one of my favourite parts is always coming home,” he muses. “It really gave me a whole new appreciation for The Coast.”

Connect with Dolf at dolfvermeulen.com, as well as his Instagram and Facebook Page.

Humans of the Coast | S4 E1 “Tiny Homes On The Sunshine Coast and Beyond”

Ross Dempster — Wed, 27 May 2020 05:03:05 +0000

Have you ever dreamed about downsizing (I mean really downsizing) and living in a small space? In recent years—and especially since Covid-19—there’s been a lot of talk about tiny homes and the potential for living a minimalist lifestyle. Living small has many financial, environmental and societal benefits.

Pam Robertson, Founder, CEO, and Operations Manager of Sunshine Tiny Homes here on the Sunshine Coast, has been building tiny homes since 2015.

“About four years ago, a tiny home came through my newsfeed on Facebook and I latched onto it. I’ve not had a compulsion like that before,” Pam explains of her initial introduction to this new way of living.

She started with a personal project. Together with her mom, she built a tiny home, which took a year-and- a-half. She officially launched her business in 2018 and has already built several tiny homes, with a steady flow of new enquiry coming in. Her long-term vision is to take the business national– and eventually global.

Pam also walks the walk herself.

“I live tiny,” she explains. “I’m minimalist, I actually didn’t realize I was until my friends called me that.”

Building a tiny home requires a great deal of planning and thoughtfulness. With size constraints, strategic thinking is required to map out the placement of foundational mechanical elements, electrical, and plumbing. Sunshine Tiny Homes provides standardized floor plans, with options to upgrade and customize, thus eliminating that overwhelming question of where to begin the build.

“The clients get to choose what the finished product looks like, what their tiny home looks like,” Pam says. “So they all get to have a bit of character to them, which is what I think is putting us over and above some of the tiny home builders that are our competitors.”

So, who is buying and living in these wee buildings? While the demographics may vary, the mindset around living with less stuff is the common denominator. Some are empty nesters, downsizing from a big house and lots of items and some have always lived a minimalist lifestyle, now wanting to take it one step further.

Regardless of where you start, it can still be difficult to rid yourself of the emotional attachment to things. Pam provides her clients with downsizing strategies. One tip she shared with me is to take photos of those knick knacks that are collecting dust on your shelves, get rid of the physical items and then add the photos into a digital picture frame so you have the nostalgia without the clutter. There are many more approaches, just like this.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth Innes is local Sunshine Coaster who built her own tiny home with her partner Craig Peterson. She says she works hard to maintain her detachment from material things so that they don’t hold as much power over her.

She owns an an adorable little 20-foot, 167 square foot tiny home with beautiful craftsmanship comprised of cherry mahogany, cedar and pine finishings. There’s a full bathroom with a rain shower and a toilet hooked up to septic and a large sink. It’s a wet bathroom, which means that everything gets wet in the bathroom when the shower is on. As such, the floors and walls are sealed so that everything stays watertight. Her kitchen has a three-burner propane stove, a full-sized fridge and sink. Elizabeth and Craig are now selling their beautiful tiny home – for more details please contact me directly.

“One of the things they say about building a tiny home. Because you’re building tiny, you can put good quality into it.”

There’s no doubt that people are beginning to take tiny homes seriously.

“At one point tiny homes were a trend, now they’re becoming a sustainable, viable alternative housing solution,” says Pam.

With the tiny home movement gaining ground rapidly the world over, governments at all levels are trying to keep pace and develop appropriate policy to accommodate and regulate the dwellings. It’s a constantly evolving situation, and Pam is on the board of the Tiny Home Alliance Canada to help advocate for tiny home owners.

For example, at the moment on the Sunshine Coast, you can purchase property, but must have plans to build a permanent home on it. That said, you can apply for a temporary use permit, which allows for a temporary structure (such as a tiny home) while you’re building your permanent structure. There are many other grey areas and nuances such as this.

While the initial shell of a tiny home costs as low as $25,000, the average pricing for a 24-foot tiny home can run between $85,000-$90,000 after personalizations and upgrades. Clients can opt to enhance their space with a luxury bathroom that features a stand alone tub, or a Dave Coyle kitchen, staircases, recessing fridges, murphy beds, convertible furniture and more.

New this year, Haley Dodge SC is offering financing on Sunshine Coast Tiny Homes at 5.59%APR for $0 down, 20-year ammortization. They will soon have two display models on the lot, which will offer a great chance to explore the homes at a convenient location. Sunshine Tiny Homes can ship anywhere in Canada and is also working on shipping to the United States.

So, if you are thinking about downsizing to a smaller life, contact Sunshine Tiny Homes, located at 435 Harbour Road, Port Mellon. Find them online at sunshinetinyhomes.com, Facebook.com/sunshinetinyhomes, and @SunshineTinyHomes.

From Tiny Homes to Floating Homes

Speaking of unique and quirky living spaces, I’m thrilled to announce a listing in the Marina at Gibsons Landing. 1 Shoal Channel is a gorgeous two bedroom, one bathroom floating home situated right on the bustling waterfront of Gibsons. Currently owned by artist Colleen Lumb https://colleenlumb.com/, this home is being sold furnished. With views of the marina and and close to all my favourite restaurants including Smitty’s, Lunitas and Buono Osteria, this two-level home is bright and spacious with plenty of deck space for your boat. Get in touch if you’d like a viewing!

BC Assessments Going Up? How To Prep Your Home For Selling in 2018

Ross Dempster — Mon, 15 Jan 2018 03:33:59 +0000

BC Assessment has released its annual property values report and it’s good news for Sunshine Coast residents. On The Coast, single-family detached homes increased by 25%, while condo property values saw an increase ranging from 10% to 25%. Some vacant land lots saw an increase of up to 35%.

According to the Coast Reporter, the total property values on the Sunshine Coast sit somewhere between $10.35 billion and $11.99 billion. BC Assessment indicates that Gibsons has seen the largest average increases in all property classes. Here, residential assessments are up 17.93 % on average. In Sechelt, residential home values increased by 17.44%.

When your property value increases, it’s only natural to start thinking about the potential of selling your home. If you’re thinking about selling in 2018, here are three ways to prepare for listing your property:

1. Start with your goals

When you first decide to sell your home, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of home improvements and getting the property listed. However, before you dive in, take some time to sit down and write out your goals for the home. Here are some questions I ask my clients when we first meet:

What are your reasons for selling?
What are your timelines for moving?
Is timing or pricing most important?
Do you anticipate any challenges with selling your home?
What we will do first: list and sell, or buy a new home?
If your upgrading to a more expensive home, are you pre-approved for your mortgage for your new purchase?

2. Create a home improvement plan

Even simple updates, like a fresh coat of paint and new appliances can make a huge difference in perceived home value. Small improvements like tightening door handles, fixing leaky faucets or replacing blinds, can be cheap and quick. Meanwhile, larger improvements like new kitchen cabinets, interior painting, exterior landscaping or even full on renovations will take more time and budget to accomplish.

Make an inventory of home updates that need to be made and prioritize them in order of what tasks will have the greatest impact on your home value. Create a budget and work-back schedule to keep yourself focused and on track.

3. Bring on the right partners

Start looking at the property as a business venture. Every successful business has the right people at the table, and your home listing is no exception. Finding the right real estate agent is part of the equation, but you may also need to source contractors and home staging experts to help showcase your home in the best possible light.

Review your goals and your home improvement plan and find experts who have an aligned vision and values. It’s so much easier when you are working with a great team.

For more steps on preparing your home, read my previous post, “How To Sell Your Home In 10 Easy Steps”.

Interested in selling your home in 2018? Contact me for a consultation!

Humans Of The Coast | S1 E7 “THE ART LOFT at this is it”

Ross Dempster — Thu, 30 Nov 2017 22:36:22 +0000

Not many people can say they’ve made art for the Royal Family. But, Sunshine Coast artist Robert Studer sure can. He’s also made pieces for the Duke and Duchess of York, and a host of other dignitaries.

Robert and his wife, Beth, are both accomplished artists and owners of The Art Loft Airbnb in Roberts Creek on the Sunshine Coast. Under their umbrella company ‘this is it’, Robert and Beth run the Airbnb and their respective artist brands: Beth Hawthorn Design and Robert Studer Creative.

Beth is a graphic designer and mixed media artist. Robert creates custom works and art exhibits for homes, corporate spaces and other high-end clientele. His signature pieces feature glass, metal and natural objects. In addition to the commissioned work he completed for the Government of Canada, his work can also be found in buildings created by renowned architects and interior designers.

Here on the Sunshine Coast, you’ll find creativity and culture around every corner. There must be something in that salty sea breeze that attracts artists, performers and makers to our beautiful coastline. The secluded hamlet of Roberts Creek is an epicentre for the flourishing art community.

Robert and Beth first moved onto their five-acre property 11 years ago. At the time, the only structures on the property were a few outhouses and a bare bones, multi-level horse barn, built by a “bachelor cowboy” who lived a very simple life.

The irony is that they weren’t too impressed with the space when they first reviewed the listing. But a viewing changed all that.

The pair had “lofty” ideas for this property. “One of the reasons we moved to the Sunshine Coast from Vancouver was to put our business and our home on the same property,” says Beth. “That was the whole point of it.”

Once completing their home renovations, they set to work on building the studio. At least 50% of the design is crafted from upcycled or recycled wood, metal and glass salvaged from architect friends, old saw mills and various other businesses.

The Art Loft has a West Coast- inspired exterior, but the interior has an ultra-modern, clean design aesthetic. The space is more than just a place for visitors to hang their hats – it’s a window into the flourishing art scene on The Coast – and some might say a catalyst too.

“This space can transform into several different configurations,” says Robert, explaining that the walls were purposefully painted white for exhibiting art, and they have wheels so they can be shifted around. “It provides an opportunity for us to have really unique, creative events take place: performances, gatherings, large installations. Whatever we want to do.”

One of their signature events is their annual Sunshine Coast Art Crawl exhibition, held at the studio. Each year, they carefully curate their art exhibit, and craft a buzzing atmosphere fueled by inspiration, creativity and creative play.

Robert still remembers one epic event they hosted at The Art Loft for the Roberts Creek Arts Festival, which included circus acts, stilt walkers, live food and art demonstrations, and an incredible turn-out.

Now, with the Airbnb having just launched, Robert and Beth are excited to welcome new visitors to The Coast; encouraging them to explore the culture of our community – as well as the natural beauty. After all, nature is the best muse of all; with her hidden grottos and secret waterfalls – both of which are within walking distance of the B&B.

As the Sunshine Coast enters its new renaissance, Robert and Beth are pleased to be part of it – and to help shape the evolution.

“Come here with your dream and work towards fulfilling it,” says Robert. “[The Sunshine Coast] is a remote area that will evolve a certain kind of culture and I want to contribute to that change in a quality, meaningful and creative way.”

Experience THE ART LOFT for yourself! Enter my Coastal Life Contest for a chance to win a 2 night stay, a $50 gift certificate to Kube Studios, plus a growler and $25 gift certificate to Highway 101 Distillery and Brewery.

Find this is it online at thisisit.ca, or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Humans of the Coast | S1 E7 “Kube Studios – An Artist Incubator”

Ross Dempster — Tue, 21 Nov 2017 16:40:09 +0000

From floor to ceiling and wall to wall, every nook and cranny in The Kube Studios is filled with bright and eclectic artisan pieces. One part art gallery, one part artist incubator, and one part retail store, Kube is a bright, vibrant space filled to the brim with inspiration.

Located in Gibsons, the 2,600 square foot space started with humble beginnings as a three-person venture in the home of Christa Joe, a 20-year resident of the Sunshine Coast.

Christa soon unearthed the budding opportunity to provide a larger studio space and support network for local artists. Soon after she began to evolve her business model, she met Jill Pilon, who had recently relocated from East Vancouver. Jill had brought with her fresh ideas and a vision for how to nurture the artist community on the Sunshine Coast.

“We really needed to ramp up our studio space and make it more of an art incubator,” Christa says. “When [Jill] came on board, we decided to do the expansion and now we can accommodate 11 artists as opposed to 5. We have a classroom space and everything. I think we do finally consider ourselves an art incubator on The Coast.”

The Kube has 10 artists in residence, who have studio space, gain access to inspiring workshops and are supported by co-op marketing efforts through the business.

Kube’s art gallery and retail space features art and hand-crafted artisan pieces from the Sunshine Coast, as well as creative works from as far away as New York. They’ve attracted quite a following and host an art opening and wine night on the first Friday of the month featuring a different artist each time.

Christa has also forged strong partnerships with several women’s empowerment organizations, and sells gorgeous textiles, bags and other items that help support women in nations, such as Ghana, Rwanda and Turkey.

Jill has helped create a burgeoning workshop program for The Kube Studios – with offerings for both adults and children of all skill levels. There are a variety of sessions each year, covering creative skills like painting, textiles, weaving, wool dying, photography, skin care, wreath making, macrame and more. They even do private women’s wine and paint nights for special occasions.

“Primarily, the reason why I really wanted to ramp up the workshops is because when I left East Van, I kind of left my artist community there,” she explains. “So, [I wanted] to continually be inspired and not have to take a ferry. …. I wanted to bring a little bit of the artist community over here so it keeps things fresh and new and interesting. When you’re constantly inspired it just keeps you going.”

While art is a huge part of Christa and Jill’s lives – and many who frequent Kube Studios for inspiration, support and community – there is no greater joy or inspiration than spending time by the ocean. The ladies both reminisce about bonfires by the beach and summer night swims, as well as heavenly hikes in the backcountry.

I asked the ladies if they had any advice for folks looking to start up a business on The Coast. Here’s what Christa said:

“Do it. The coast is growing. There’s just an influx of new people. We’re hungry for change and I think that if people are looking to open up a business now is the time. If you don’t jump at the opportunity to do it, someone else is going to.”

Fill up on Kube Studios artisan goodies this winter by entering my Coastal Living Contest. I’m giving away two, 2-night stays here on the Sunshine Coast. Each package includes a $50 gift certificate from Kube Studios. Enter now!

Find Kube Studios on Facebook and Instagram and visit them online at thekubestudios.com.

Humans Of The Coast | S1 E6 “Sleep Out Bed + Breakfast”

Ross Dempster — Fri, 10 Nov 2017 05:01:31 +0000

What happens when you move from the bustling streets of Toronto to the sun-soaked shores of the Sunshine Coast? Just ask Rebecca and Gord, who moved to The Coast 13 years ago and never looked back.

While the pair opened up their Roberts Creek Airbnb, The Sleep Out Bed and Breakfast, in July 2016, the dream of having a B&B came long before. The seed was planted when they first bought the property 10 years ago. But, great ideas take time to percolate – especially when you’re living the coastal life!

Before The Sleep Out transformed into the rustic-chic haven it is now, the space served as an indoor skate ramp for Rebecca and Gord. Their kids even used it sometimes too.

After saving and planning for years, they began renovations and proudly opened the doors to their Airbnb just over a year ago.

The Sleep Out, which is a stone’s throw from Roberts Creek, sleeps four and has a bright and rustic feel. Careful attention to detail is paid in every nook and cranny of the space, from the rustic kitchen island, hand-crafted from reclaimed wood by Gord, to the eclectic finishings curated by Rebecca from garage sales and thrift shops.

One of the most gorgeous features of the space – formerly a woodworking shop – is the french doors separating the bedroom from living room. The window hanging above the doors is actually Rebecca and Gord’s first vintage purchase from their time in Toronto. They transported it all the way to BC and kept it for a rainy day.

One of the most unique aspects of the Sleep Out is the lovely welcome baskets, which Rebecca customizes for each guest. The vintage gift box includes yummy bubbly, eggs from chickens who live on the property, as well as organic chocolates and other delicious local treats.

“I think it’s more of a traditional bed and breakfast, which is what I’m going for,” Rebecca says. “I’m trying to give a more authentic experience.”

When the two are not running their Airbnb, Gord is a broker for vinyl pressing, has a record label and is an account manager for an employee assistance program. Rebecca manages the home, which includes three children (15, 10 and 2), a french mastiff, a cat, a flock of chickens and a garden full of vegetables & fruits. And, with her keen eye for home design, I wouldn’t be surprised if a new side hustle is on her horizon too.

I asked Rebecca what advice she had when it comes to starting a venture here in our community.

“Just be authentic and don’t take yourself too seriously. Especially coming from the city. This is your chance to be the real you,” she says.

And for this lovely family in Roberts Creek, ‘being the real you’ means living a life that allows for morning swims at low tide, a constant reminder that you made the right decision all those years ago.

Do you want to experience the Sleep Out for yourself? Enter my Coastal Life Contest for a chance to win a 2 night stay, a $50 gift certificate to Kube Studios, plus a growler and $25 gift certificate to Highway 101 Distillery and Brewery

Making It Work On The Coast | S1 E8 “How Gary and Jen Left the 9-5 Behind”

Ross Dempster — Tue, 07 Nov 2017 04:51:42 +0000

Location: Tuwanek

Outdoor: Porpoise Bay

Social Recco: The Lighthouse Pub

What happens when you leave the rat race and head for the coast? With a little creativity and some hustle, the options are endless.

Having your property featured on the likes of Buzzfeed and CBC is something many of us can only dream of. But, that’s just what happened for Gary and Jen, owners of Alfie the A Frame, on the Sunshine Coast. This cute little cabin, tucked away in Tuwanek, is one of Airbnb’s most wishlisted in Canada!

The pair, originally from Vancouver, have owned property on the Sunshine Coast for 10 years – and have lived here for four. Even back in 2007, the costs of housing in Metro Vancouver prohibited them from home ownership right away, so they decided to partner with a friend to purchase their first home in Tuwanek (which is located near Porpoise Bay).

After some time, they grew tired of the day-to-day grind of their corporate jobs and stressful city lives, in search of more balance and flexibility. And with that, they decided to design the life they wanted.

Jen, a human resources professional, and Gary, a computer programmer in the gaming industry were not only looking for a change of pace but a complete lifestyle transformation too.

When they first moved to the Sunshine Coast, both of them continued to work in Vancouver part-time. However, as their full transition to coastal living progressed, the couple decided to rethink how they made money all together.

What if they could leverage the popular tourism industry on the Sunshine Coast to run an Airbnb? One property turned into three, and they now run two additional properties besides Alfie: The LIly Pad and Original Sixty Seven.

While Airbnb helps pay the bills, Gary and Jen also have an insatiable appetite for travel. To help fund their adventures, Jen has a side hustle making artisan roasted nuts. Watch for West Coast Nuts at Farmer’s Markets and Persephone Brewing, with tasty offerings, such as maple bacon almonds and orange ginger pecans. She also works in the tasting room at Persephone. Meanwhile, Gary takes up occasional freelance programming gigs, and is renovating an investment property too.

Career Advice For Living On The Coast

One of the biggest questions people have when deciding whether or not to move to the Sunshine Coast is around jobs and earning an income. Gary has some great advice for people who are curious about the job market:

“Try to be entrepreneurial and don’t feel you need to do your same job over here. It’s OK to do an array of jobs. The guy who rents cars also has a you brew wine shop. You have to explore opportunities to make money work.”

Jen adds that there are plenty of jobs on the Sunshine Coast, but much of the opportunities come through word of mouth and relationships versus the traditional job postings one might see in an urban setting. She advises getting to know people and chatting about your skills and passions.

“Once you make the move over here and you start meeting people, people will give you opportunities. If you seem capable and enthusiastic, they will basically hand them to you on a platter,” she explains.

What to Expect When You Move

Beach bonfires, solo nature hikes without the crowds and adventures galore are just some of the benefits of living on the Sunshine Coast. But the one thing Jen wasn’t expecting was her appreciation for peace and quiet and the satisfaction of truly appreciating your home.

“I was never a homebody, so not being home much didn’t really bother me. It wasn’t until moving here [that I realized] I actually like being at home, and I love having people over, and I love cooking again!” she says. “So in the end, what I turns out I wanted was to have [a quieter life] without really knowing it at the time.”

It’s not all chilling out though. There is quite a hopping events and activities scene on the Sunshine Coast – if you know where to look. While on the surface it doesn’t seem like there’s much going on because there isn’t one central resource, the community is overflowing with cultural events, activities and more.

Gary and Jen left their 9-5 lives behind four years ago. And, in that short time, they’ve managed to create the flexible, fulfilling, adventure-filled life they were craving. So, what are you waiting for?

Want to learn more about living on The Coast? Get in touch for a consultation!

The Backcountry Hut Company: Your New “Surf Shack” Or A Full-Time Home?

Ross Dempster — Fri, 20 Oct 2017 03:36:31 +0000

With today’s competitive housing market, many people are beginning to look outside the box – or rather, inside the box – for solutions to a sustainable living situation. All you need is a piece of land and a build-it-yourself hut to create the ultimate West Coast lifestyle.

The Backcountry Hut Company, based in Vancouver, is quickly gaining global attention for their beautifully designed flat pack homes. The solution was inspired by IKEA’s approach to creating DIY assembled designer furniture for the masses.

Recently coined a “surf shack” in numerous media reports, these homes have huge potential for so much more. While the concept does lend itself well to backcountry huts for private groups, outdoor organizations or tour operators, the “frontcountry” designs make these homes a viable option for a full-time home too. This modular home design – which received a 2016 Canadian Architecture 2016 Award of Excellence – can be used for a private backcountry hideaway, a gorgeous and stylish laneway home, or even a single family dwelling on a beautiful acreage. What’s more, the pre-fab kit is so mobile that it can be flown in via helicopter to some of the most remote places British Columbia has to offer.

“This was a passion project that Michael [Leckie] and I developed based on a love of the outdoors, architecture and a number of objectives that we wanted to accomplish,” says co-founder Wilson Edgar. The pair founded the company with Cyrill Werlen, manufacturing partner.

The timing couldn’t be better for the BHC team. It’s the perfect storm of a housing crunch, an exploding backcountry industry, and the overall return to minimalist living. Currently BHC is working with clients across Canada and the United States.

The home kits start at around $55,000 CAD. Their most popular model at the moment is the 3 Module hut, a 748 square-foot space that could house a family of four in the frontcountry or 24 in the backcountry.

“Why our product is seeing so much interest is the Architect Award Winning Design with a kit of parts of the best quality building materials and products,” says Wilson.”Not many homes are designed on a Glulam Timberframe system incorporating designer windows and full glazing wall option that is 25-feet tall.”

So, have these homes made their way to the Sunshine Coast, where zoning often allows for a second dwelling on the property? According to Wilson, there has been some interest from The Coast and he has a number of clients currently in search of land on which to build their BHC home.

I recently asked Wilson what makes the BHC huts special:

“We have designed our product to offer a durable structure that is very sustainable. We looked at the tinyhome movement, we are not that,” he explains. “We are providing the market a liveable space for 1 person or 4 to live in a well designed space front country and up to 24 in the backcountry. The structure is designed to have a very long lifespan well surpassing average home construction in Canada and the US.”

If their recent success is any indication of what’s to come, you may just be seeing BHC huts popping up on The Coast in the very near future.

Learn more about The Backcountry Hut Company by visiting them on at thebackcountryhutcompany.com. Also, find them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Looking for a property for your modular home? Get in touch and let’s chat!