subject: Living In Victoria West Coast Homes [print this page] The natural beauty that surrounds us here on the west coast is a strong element contributing to the style of homes that are being built here. We take inspiration from the forest, mountains, rivers and the ocean. Using the materials that nature provides, often in forms that are less processed and more rustic, is a recurring theme. Rough cut timbers, stone, and muted earth tone colours typify the west coast vibe.
The temperate climate of the west coast allows us to be generous with the use of glass in our homes, which brings in our soft light, and the feeling of being outdoors year round. In fact, many properties are designed now with outdoor rooms which may include full kitchens, ample comfortable seating, and fireplaces or water features. These components are designed to create a welcoming gathering place for friends and family to spend time together.
Energy efficiency is still important in our climate, and is achieved through effective insulation, double-glazed, low-e windows, HRV (heat recovery ventilation) systems, tankless hot water heaters and heat pumps. Solar electricity generating systems are used less frequently than simple passive solar heat gain designs due to our climate.
In the Greater Victoria area it is uncommon to find homes built with full underground basements. This is partly due to the mild temperatures making it unnecessary, and partly because they call Vancouver Island The Rock for a reason it is not uncommon to find solid bedrock not too far down, and costs to excavate are prohibitive. In places where the rock is deep enough to be out of the way, the water table is generally high enough that an in-home swimming pool would be the only reasonable underground option!
In fact, a common layout for homes in Victoria would be basement entry, with main living areas and bedrooms on the upper floor of a two story design. The largely above ground basements often contain secondary living areas (rec rooms), utilities, and extra bedrooms or storage.
Of course these are generalizations, and many other types of homes can be found in the Greater Victoria area, but for those who are planning a move toVictoria, the west coast home style described is certainly something you can expect to find here.
