Passive Plus Forest Retreat

This retreat in Pemberton embodies our belief in creating spaces that are both beautiful and sustainable. With its advanced energy solutions, cantilever design, and harmonious blend of materials, it's a place that offers comfort, style, and peace of mind. This was more than just a building project; it was an opportunity to show that a home can be both luxurious and environmentally responsible. Within this retreat we strived to bring together innovative design, sustainable living, and respect for the surrounding natural elements. The clients were looking to collaborate on a home design where the structure would perform to Passive House Plus standards, be functional, and have a high level of detail. They used the Swedish word “lagom” to describe the subtle and understated home they envisioned—the closest English translation is “just enough but not too much”. To integrate the building with its sloped environment, we angled the supporting columns to mimic the surrounding trees and chose galvanized steel to withstand the elements. For the lower floor and soffits, we used equitone cladding, providing a durable and visually appealing finish. The upper floor features custom-bent metal cladding, installed at an angle, adding a modern edge to the building's exterior. This structure introduces fire-resistant cladding, decking (and supports), as well as exterior shutters to allow the house the ability to resist the natural elements in a world of increased environmental extremes. One of the home's standout features is it’s cantilever design. This architectural element extends the house over the slope, creating shaded outdoor areas that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Among these areas are a lap pool complete with a custom sliding deck cover and a sunken outdoor kitchen, perfect for family gatherings or peaceful solitary moments.