Project: Tyhee Lake House
Architecture: Falken Reynolds
Architectural Consultant: Hoston Architecture
Contractor: Vandergaag Construction
Landscape Design: Lazzarin Svisdahl Landscape Architects
Location: Smithers, British Columbia, Canada
Area: 4100 ft2
Year: 2022
Photo Credits: Ema Peter
The Tyhee Lake House was designed by Falken Reynolds for a young family returning to their roots in Smithers, BC. Located on Tyhee Lake, expansive windows take advantage of views to the lake, and mountains beyond.
After living in several major North American cities over the past sixteen years, the clients wanted to raise their three daughters in a peaceful wilderness setting with easy access to the outdoor activities they love. They called on us to design a permanent modern home on the site of their old summer cabin in Northern British Columbia that would accommodate gatherings of all sizes and still feel like a cozy alpine cabin.
They love to entertain and wanted a home that would comfortably accommodate any size of gathering. The concept was a home that felt like a cozy Canadian alpine cabin with nods to both country and modern aesthesis.
The kitchen sits between the outdoor and indoor entertaining spaces for easy access and flow. Sight lines to the driveway, dock, and tennis court make it easy to see arriving guests and take in the views of the lake and Babine mountains.
Tucked under the stairs is the bar. Concealing a fridge, glassware cabinet, and wine cellar, the visually discreet bar is centred in the entertaining area to prevent kitchen congestion when hosting larger parties. It has all the functionality of a full-service bar, while being subtle in the open living area.
“Every space, every storage cabinet, the way everything works together, it has purpose.”
– Client, 2022
A yellow cedar wall, ash millwork and oak floor add warmth to the primary ensuite while a black window frames views across Tyhee Lake.
The joint kids bathroom – a response to the client’s desire to foster sharing while saving space and materials–features a three-sink vanity and separate water closet and wet room.
“The flow of the house works exactly the way we wanted it to.” – Client, 2022
