Scandi-Modern Retreat

The owners of this modern Scandinavian-style custom home had purchased an empty lot and were looking for a builder with the skill and knowledge to help them with the design, as well as construction. After doing their research, and interviewing a series of builders, they hired Lentel.

The 2.5 storey home has some unique features, starting with the minimalist Scandi-modern design, which called for a shingled cedar exterior and strong profile, with no roof overhangs or exterior window trim. The home’s exterior has the neutral light palette and wood tones typical of this design style.

Portions of the home were constructed using large 12” x 12” fir timbers of various lengths, with the longest being 23 feet. It was a challenge for our team to source large enough timbers that would produce minimal splitting over time.

The beams also posed a challenge when it came time to rough in the plumbing – the routes for piping were limited in some areas due to the locations of the beams. The homeowners did not want to build drop ceilings to accommodate the pipes, so our team creatively solved the issue with modifications to the layout of the ventilation system.

Typically, Scandinavian interior design focuses on sustainability, simplicity, neutral colours, and natural elements. On the main floor, large windows and sliding glass doors in the living and dining rooms visually extend the boundaries of each space into the garden. The homeowners have plenty of peaceful spots in which to relax outside, with covered porches front and back, and a second-floor deck at the front of the house. The half-storey on the top floor further enhances their lifestyle with an air-conditioned exercise area.