Gulf Island Vista
Building on remote islands presents a series of challenges. The crew at Kettle River believes the key to remote projects is meticulous planning and prefabrication – if we can build it in the shop, it’s one less day sleeping in a tent. Kettle River worked closely with the general contractor, Rick Rowland on this project and it is best described as a prefabricated custom home. Timberwork and Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS) were factory built and barged to the island. Erection of the timber frame and panels took 3 weeks. This project also showcases another KRTW innovation – direct glazing. Instead of using pre-built window units in the great room, KRTW proposed integrating the glass directly onto the timber, the result was a stunning ‘timber wall of glass’ unencumbered with finicky trim details. Furthermore, the cost of the sealed glazing units installed was less than half the cost of installing and trimming out equivalent windows.
Rick Roland, Owner, Insidestory Design, Courtenay, BCI am a ‘High-End Custom’ builder focusing on remote projects. Due to the insane logistics of these challenging locations, top quality suppliers and subs are essential. I’ve completed three separate projects where Kettle River designed and supplied the timber package. On one project, they also assisted with the installation. These projects ranged in complexity from ‘ridge, rafter and plate’ roof systems to full-blown ‘post and beam’ structural assemblies. The attention to aesthetic detail was only surprised by their professional approach and unparalleled level of service. I will be working with them again.
