Gulf Island Timber Retreats

These Gulf Island retreats were created by the Vancouver-based architecture firm Osburn/Clarke. They were commissioned to design four guest cabins, each with the same footprint but different in configuration, layout and location.

 

The cabins are designed as summer retreats. The buildings have a simple layout and an abundance of glazing to create a bright, airy space that is connected to the surrounding forest environment.

Gulf Island Cabins by Osbourne Clarke

 

Gulf Island Cabins by Osbourne Clarke 3

Gulf Island Cabins by Osbourne Clarke 4

 

Gulf Island Cabins by Osbourne Clarke 5

Gulf Island Cabins by Osbourne Clarke 6

Gulf Island Cabins by Osbourne Clarke 7

Gulf Island Cabins by Osbourne Clarke 8

Gulf Island Cabins by Osbourne Clarke 9

Gulf Island Cabins by Osbourne Clarke

During the summer season the cabin’s lighting is powered by a battery system charged by solar panels, providing low voltage LED lighting. Water is recycled on-site by using rainwater run-off from the roof and storing it in grey-water tanks.

In the off-season the buildings can be shut down with an exterior shutter system, protecting them from the elements.

Via Osburn/Clarke Productions Inc.

Niall Burke

Structural engineer by day, tiny house designer by night. Niall has a keen interest in small spaces, green design, and sustainability. He started developing Humble Homes while studying for his masters degree in engineering. He is the founder and managing editor of Humble Homes.

1 Comment
  1. I love the gulf streams retreats. What is the approximate cost to build one as described?