Category: Contemporary House

What kind of house should be built today? 

In British Columbia, there is a fantastic chance to combine the beauty of nature with contemporary living while designing a new building. You may build to optimize your relationship with the breathtaking surroundings by taking into account window placements, adopting open-concept designs, incorporating natural materials, and establishing seamless outdoor living areas. These design techniques will enable you to fully appreciate the breathtaking grandeur that British Columbia has to offer, whether you’re sitting in your living room looking at the mountains or spending a peaceful evening on your deck.

Here are a few considerations that can be put into the design:

Open Concept Layouts: Contemporary homes often feature open-concept layouts that promote natural light and flow. 

Outdoor Living Spaces: Create outdoor living spaces like patios, decks, and gardens that extend the usable space of the home. 

Contemporary Aesthetics: Embrace clean lines, simple shapes, and a minimalist aesthetic. 

Integration of Nature:  Design outdoor living spaces, such as patios, decks, and gardens, to enhance the connection with the surrounding natural environment. 

Functionality and Practicality:  Ensure the home is designed for efficient use of space, adaptive to the home working trend,  thoughtful storage solutions and practical layouts. 

Bold Lighting:  Use a mix of natural and artificial lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, with a focus on energy-efficient options.

Internal Courtyards:  Consider internal courtyards to bring nature indoors and create a unique living space. 

• Timber Accents:  Use timber accents to add warmth and texture to the design.

• Position and Orientation:  Pay attention to the position and orientation of the house to maximize natural light and minimize energy consumption. 

Smart Technology:  Incorporate smart technology for comfort and efficiency with the help of modern technology. You can regulate the lighting, temperature, and even window blinds with smart home systems, which can help you control how much heat and natural light enters your house.

What kind of house should be built today? 

Contemporary homes in BC, Canada, should be environmentally resilient to protect against the increasing impacts of climate change, including extreme weather events, and to reduce the environmental footprint of buildings. Buildings resilience to the environment can help protect residents from the hazards of extreme weather, ensuring safety and comfort.  Resilient buildings can reduce the costs associated with repairs and reconstruction after extreme weather events, saving money and resources.  They can contribute to the overall resilience of communities, making them better able to withstand and recover from climate-related disasters. 

The BC Codes 2024 (the BC building code), which is based on the National Codes 2020 with some BC specific variations to reflect the province’s geography, climate, local government needs, industry practices, and provincial priorities .  There are changes effective from March 2025 which includes: 

• Improved earthquake design changes for housing and small buildings with high seismic hazard values
• Living space is designed not to exceed 26 C
• Install a Radon-extraction / mitigation system for health protection against Radon.  Radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas, is a leading cause of lung cancer, and a mitigation system effectively reduces radon levels in your home, protecting the occupants’ health 

In addition to the building code requirements, contemporary houses can be built with the focus on energy efficiency, water management, and building materials that can withstand local hazards like earthquakes and wildfires, while also incorporating green infrastructure. Some considerations are:

Green Roofs:
Incorporate green roofs for initial stormwater management, while carefully considering roof warranty and wildfire risks.

Adapt to Future Conditions:
Design buildings to withstand future wind and snow loads.

Stormwater Management:
Use permeable paving, rain gardens, and drainage systems to divert water away from houses.

Flood Protection:
Ensure mechanical equipment is located above the flood construction level and consider indoor amenity spaces for emergency supplies and cooling.

Non-Potable Water Systems:
Incorporate non-potable water systems, including extra space for treatment equipment and storage tanks.

Fire Resistance:
Employ fire-resistant roofing and siding materials.

Water Resistance:
Use water-resistant building materials.

Sea Level Rising:
Limiting development in the coastal areas

What kind of house should be built today? 

In BC, modern houses should prioritize sustainable materials to minimize environmental impact, conserve resources, and contribute to a healthier, more resilient built environment for future generations, aligning with BC’s commitment to sustainability.  Using sustainable materials can bring environmental benefits such as reduced carbon footprint, resource conservation, preservation of ecosystems, and reduced pollution.   It is also better for health and well being by improving the indoor air quality.  Sustainable homes are often seen as a more desirable and valuable investment, leading to higher resale value.  Energy-efficient and durable sustainable materials can also  lead to lower energy consumption and maintenance costs in the long run. 

Locally Sourced Materials: Prioritize using materials that are locally sourced and have a low environmental impact. 

Recycled and Renewable Materials: Consider using recycled or renewable materials like reclaimed wood, bamboo, cork or sustainably sourced lumber can reduce the environmental impact of construction. 

• Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) are considered a sustainable building method in Canada, offering benefits like superior insulation, reduced energy consumption, and the use of recycled materials

• Mass Lumber offers a renewable and carbon-storing alternative to traditional concrete and steel construction, contributing to a lower carbon footprint.  Mass timber construction utilizes advanced manufacturing techniques that maximize wood usage and minimize waste. 

Low-VOC Finishes: Use paints, adhesives, and other finishes with low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions for better indoor air quality.

What kind of house should be built today? 

Contemporary homes in BC, Canada, need to be energy-efficient to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower energy costs, and promote sustainable living, with BC’s building codes evolving to reflect this with standards like the Net-Zero Energy Ready (NZER) standard. BC is aiming to make all new homes highly energy efficient by 2032. 

In British Columbia, building a contemporary, energy-efficient home with a focus on sustainable materials and design is a good approach, considering the climate and current building trends. 

The National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings (NECB) divides Canada six climate zones (4, 5, 6, 7A, 7B, and 8) based on heating degree-days (HDD), which measure the number of degrees Celsius a day’s average temperature is below 18°C, for energy efficiency and building standards, ranging from <3000 HDD (Zone 4) to ≥7,000 HDD (Zone 8).  

Climate Zone 4: The warmest zone, requiring less insulation in buildings. Victoria and Vancouver are in Climate Zone 4.

Climate Zone 8: The coldest zone, requiring the most insulation. Smith River is in Climate Zone 8.

• To build an energy-efficient house, focus on a tight building envelope with excellent insulation, high-performance windows and doors, and efficient appliance and lighting systems, while also considering passive solar design and renewable energy options. 

BC Energy Step Code: Ensure your home meets or exceeds the requirements of the BC Energy Step Code, which promotes energy-efficient building practices.  As of May 1, 2023, the BC Building Code (the Code, aka BCBC) requires 20%-better energy efficiency for most new buildings in B.C. This is equivalent to 

• Step 3 for Part 9 buildings (i.e. small buildings, including single-family homes, that are three stories or less in height and have a building area of 600 square meters or less, with occupancies classified as residential, business/personal services, mercantile, or low-to-medium hazard industrial) and 
• Step 2 for Part 3 buildings (buildings exceeding 600 square meters in building area or three stories in height; Examples  include condos, apartment buildings, care facilities, daycares, etc.)

BC requires all new Part 9 buildings (which we will focus on in this post)  to be in Step 5 by 2032, which is 7 years from today.  Many new buildings are reaching Step 4 and Step 5 nowadays ahead of the building code requirement.  This is because the energy efficiency when reaching a higher step code means more comfort to the occupants, a lower energy bill, and creating a more friendly environment by adding a low single digit increment to the building cost.

Zero Carbon Step Code: Like the BC Energy Step Code, the Zero Carbon Step Code is a flexible, predictable plan to improve new buildings over time, with the objective to reach zero emissions from all new buildings by 2030. It complements the BC Energy Step Code by reducing emissions while improving energy efficiency. Together, they make buildings that are cleaner, more energy efficient, and affordable to operate.  Similar to the BC Energy Step Code, the Zero Carbon Step Code is based on different, measurable Steps. In general terms, these Carbon Steps can be referred to as:

• Moderate Carbon Performance (EL-2)
• Strong Carbon Performance (EL-3)
• Zero Carbon Performance (EL-4)

Air Sealing:  Prioritize sealing all air leaks in the building envelope (walls, floors, ceiling) to prevent drafts and energy loss. 

High-Performance Insulation: Use high-quality insulation to minimize energy loss, especially in the walls of the building, exposed floor, and above the ceiling.  It is also a recommendation to add insulation under the slab of the foundation regardless if the foundation is Slab-on-grade, basement, or crawlspace, or a combination of them.

Windows & Doors:  Reduce the number of windows to a as needed basis as windows are the highest contributor to the heat loss in the contemporary housing.  Choose high-performance windows and doors with features like triple glazing, low-E coatings, and tight seals even in the climate zone 4 areas.

Energy-Efficient Appliances and Systems: Opt for appliances and HVAC systems with high Energy Star ratings.  

• Cooktop – induction cooktops are more energy efficient and take shorter time to bring up the heat than the traditional electric and gas cooktops.
• Heating – Heat pumps are more energy efficient than conventional finances that are powered by fossil fuels or electricity.
• Heat Recovery Ventilation / Energy Recovery Ventilation capture and recycle heat from indoor air while bringing in fresh outdoor air. They improve air quality and reduce heating costs by exchanging heat and moisture between incoming fresh air and outgoing stale air. 
• Domestic Hot Water – Heat Pump Water Heater is the most energy efficient than traditional tank type water heaters, potentially saving up to 70% on energy costs. 
• Dryers – Heat pump dryers are more energy-efficient than vented dryers because they recycle air and condense moisture, while vented dryers expel hot, moist air outside, leading to higher energy consumption

Lighting: 

• LED Lighting: Replace traditional incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs. 
• Natural Light: Maximize natural light by strategically placing windows and using light-colored interior surfaces. 
• Smart Lighting: Consider smart lighting systems that can be controlled remotely or based on occupancy. 

Assess Energy Usage: Put in the power meter to measure the electricity usage in real time.  Regularly assess your home’s energy usage to identify areas for improvement.

Passive Solar Design: Consider the orientation of the house to maximize natural light and heat gain in the winter and minimize heat gain in the summer.

Smart Home Technology: Integrate smart home systems for energy management and automation. Solar Panels: Install solar panels to generate electricity from the sun.

What kind of house should be built today? 

An adaptable design accommodates lifestyle changes without the need to demolish or substantially modify the existing structure and services.” In some cases, haphazardly designed homes will oblige homeowners to change their residence due to life situations. For example, perhaps a two-story home building may have bedrooms located only on the second story and a steep set of stairs. This layout will often mean that elderly couples will need to move to a home with easier bedroom access. Similarly, a smaller house that has only one room that can practically act as a bedroom will often force young couples to change homes once children come along.  On the other hand, adaptable homes are specifically designed so that a single space or room can cover several different functions and roles throughout the lifetime of the house. A room used as a home office during the first years of occupancy can be converted into a child’s bedroom, a teenager’s private retreat space, a family study, or an extra bedroom for a guest during different periods.

To build an adaptable living house, focus on universal design principles, including open floor plans, wide doorways, grab bars, non-slip flooring, and accessible kitchens and bathrooms, ensuring the home can accommodate changing needs and abilities.  Some key considerations:

Open Floor Plans:  

Create flexible spaces that can be easily reconfigured for different needs, such as a nursery, home office, or guest room. 

Wider Doorways and Hallways:  

Ensure easy access for wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers, and make it easier to move furniture. 

Accessible Bathrooms:  

Include features like grab bars in the bathing and toilet areas, non-slip flooring, and roll-in showers or walk-in bathtubs.  Bathrooms should be spacious enough to accommodate mobility aids like wheelchairs or walkers.  Walk-in / roll-in showers eliminate the need to step over a high threshold, reducing the risk of falls and making the space accessible to everyone. Additionally, they can be equipped with seats and adjustable shower heads to cater to various needs.  ADA-compliant toilet with the adequate clearance in front and around the toilet area.  All operable parts in the bathroom, such as flush handles and soap dispensers, must be easily accessible and operated with one hand.  Accessories like coat hooks and shelves should be placed within accessible reach ranges.

Accessible Kitchens:  

Consider features like pull-down shelves, drawers, and adjustable countertops to accommodate different needs. 

Ground-Level Access:  

Ensure easy access to the main entrance without steps or ramps. 

Lever-Style Door Handles:  

Make it easier for people with limited grip strength to open doors. 

Acoustic: 

A home’s acoustics profoundly impact the quality of life for someone with hearing loss, as poor acoustics can create painful echoes and vibrations that degrade hearing.  Use acoustic tiles or plush materials to reduce echoing in rooms with high ceilings.Choose carpets, vinyl flooring, or softwood for flooring to minimize sound reflection.  Add flashing lights in multiple locations to complement the rigging of the door bells and fire/gas alarms for the weak hearing occupants in the building.

Adequate Lighting:  

Ensure good lighting, especially in hallways and stairways, and consider motion-sensor lights. Install recessed lighting to create shadow-free illumination.  Use shades and curtains to diffuse direct sunlight in high-sunshine rooms.  Ensure consistent lighting from room to room.  Add motion-sensor lighting for enhanced visibility and security.

Non-Slip Flooring:  

Use non-slip flooring in areas that may become wet, such as the bathroom or kitchen. 

Consider Future Needs:  

Plan for potential future needs, such as a stairlift or elevator, by incorporating features like wider stairwells and stiffer wall framing. 

Flexible Room Functionality:  

Design rooms that can be used for multiple purposes, such as a living area that can also serve as a home office or guest room. 

Accessible Outdoor Spaces:  

Design accessible outdoor spaces, including ramps, accessible pathways, and raised garden beds. 

Consider Storage Solutions:  

Plan for adequate storage solutions, including pull-down shelves, drawers, and built-in storage units. 

Ergonomic Design:  

Pay attention to ergonomics, such as placing light switches and outlets at easily reachable heights. 

Choose Durable and Easy-to-Maintain Materials: 

Select materials that are durable, easy to clean, and low-maintenance 

What kind of house should be built today? 

When building a contemporary house in BC, key considerations include embracing open floor plans, maximizing natural light, prioritizing sustainability, and incorporating functional design elements while ensuring compliance with local building codes and zoning regulations. 

It is understandable that the homeowners and those who live in will have their preferences in the layout of the floorplan, which is according to their taste and preference of the design, living habits, their culture and upbring, etc.  In short, demographics significantly influence homeowner preferences for their home designs, impacting everything from size and layout to style and features, as different age groups, family structures, and cultural backgrounds have varying needs and tastes.  The advance in technology also embarked a new and remarkable shift in this paradigm, such as remote working, share economy, etc.   

These considerations form a long list and are more personalized than ever.  Instead of posting a long article that is filled with tens of thousands of words, I shall focus on some basic principles and break it into multiple parts for easy consumption.

Here is a breakdown of key principles when building contemporary residential buildings.  The first four are some objective considerations while doing the design, and the last one, Design, is on today’s market trend.  

1. Adaptive Living Design (Part 1)
2. Energy Efficiency (Part 2)
3. Sustainable Materials (Part 3)
4. Resilience to Environment (Part 4)
5. Design (Part 5)

Each of these parts will be in its own section (blog).  These topics tie in closely with each other and they should be incorporated at the very early stage of the building development process.  This building development process is also an important consideration in the successful development of a contemporary house.

Pilot Building Development Consultant (Pilot BDC) empowers the property owners to become confident building developers.  Pilot BDC provides independent consultancy service to the BC property owners to understand and realize the potential of their properties. Our firm provides unbiased financial and technical opinions and recommendations under the property owners’ best interests. We also upknowledge the clients to be ready for collaborating with multi-disciplinary professionals. The coworking model, combined with a governance framework, will steer the project toward achieving its goals and objectives while effectively managing risks.  PilotBDC can be contacted here.