This vacation home was lovingly renovated to serve as a family retreat spurred on by the realities of a changing world during the height of the COVID-19 Pandemic. The homeowners spent nearly two years envisioning what the project would look like before they approached architect Andrew Ramsgard to get the renovation started.
“COVID-19 changed a lot of people’s lives, and the staycation became a very real thing for some families. Being able to enjoy the outdoors was the primary reason for this home’s renovation, but also the safety and security of the backyard environment,” architect Andrew Ramsgard explained. “Everyone’s home is a castle, and in the case of this project it becomes just a fabulous place to enjoy.“
The outdoor heavy timber pavilion area was designed for enjoying summers outdoors while keeping privacy and safety at heart. No detail was overlooked during this remodel, with special attention paid to the elusive feeling of tranquil coziness achieved through the use of a strong Douglas fir crux A-frame and natural wood accents.
“The coziness of the wood a timber frame offers just can’t be beat, there is nothing like it,” Andrew told us. “I enjoy all kinds of architecture, I like modern, contemporary styles, classics… and I like all different kind of materials. But when it comes to warmth and the feeling of coming home, wood is the way to achieve that feeling in a building.”
“I have a long background with New Energy Works and the company founder Jonathan Orpin dating back to the early 1990’s. Back then Jonathan and I were talking about having me come and be the head of design and the architect of record for the company,” Andrew mused. “At that time, I was just starting my own career and my own business, but if he had caught me 6 months earlier it would have been a done deal! It has been a long and really wonderful relationship to stay connected with and working with New Energy Works over the last 30+ years. I really enjoy the relationship we continue to have.”
Project Credits:
Architect: Ramsgard Architectural Design
Builder: Furcinito Builders Inc
Engineer: Fire Tower Engineered Timber
Photos: Tim Wilkes
See our case study:
Redefining the Staycation | New Energy Works