Brigade Home

Location: Gambier Island, British Columbia, Canada

Type: New Build Residential  

Year Completed: 2013

Size: 1,700 sf

Architect: Mcfarlane Green Biggar

Photographer: Jean Philippe Delage

The Gambier Island House is a secluded weekend retreat designed for a young Vancouver couple and their two children. Set along the eastern shore of Gambier Island, the steep, forested waterfront site is accessible only by water and operates completely off-grid, with independent systems for heat and electricity. Embracing the rugged character of its surroundings, the design is intentionally simple, using modest materials and forms that sit lightly on the land. Two stacked volumes perch above the rocky cliff, clad in wood, cement board, and expansive glazing that provides protection from the elements while opening the home to its spectacular setting. The three-bedroom, two-bathroom residence is organized around an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living space. Clean architectural lines frame sweeping views across the water toward the surrounding mountains, while generous rooftop decks extend the living spaces outdoors and create a seamless connection to the landscape. The hybrid structure is primarily constructed from wood, complemented by selective steel elements and minimal concrete. This approach reinforces the project's central design philosophy: creating a comfortable and contemporary retreat while minimizing its impact on the rugged natural site.