Columbia River Valley Lookout, Kootenay Mountains, British Columbia, BC residence, Canadian architecture images

Columbia River Valley Lookout in the Kootenay Mountains

Updated 21 Dec 2023 + 25 Apr 2023

Architects: Twobytwo Architecture Studio

Location: Kootenay Mountain Range, British Columbia, Canada

Photos: Hayden Pattullo

Columbia River Valley Lookout, Canada

The Columbia River Valley Lookout is nestled away in the Kootenay mountain range, this compact ski cabin aims at connecting family members to each other and to the unbound natural landscape that surrounds it.

The entire design process was very much family-oriented. Home owner, Sandra Bassett employed her sister and brother-in-law of Twobytwo Architecture Studio to design a cabin where their family could gather, relax and partake in their favorite winter activities. The house was structurally designed by Sandra’s husband Chris Urbinsky.

Chris’s steel engineering background became the primary inspiration for features showcased throughout the cabin, from the cantilevered steel balcony, douglas fir rafters, to the continuous industrial staircase that spans the 3 level cabin. The common space is situated on the upper floor surrounded by douglas fir and cedar, composing a quiet gathering space among the treetops. From the upper level balcony you can take in the panoramic view of the Columbia River Valley and wetlands.

The architecture and materials of the cabin were inspired by the cabin’s natural surroundings. Situated firmly with a solid podium, the cabin’s simple rectangular footprint towers above the trees, capped with a simple shed roof to maximize height toward the prevailing views. The uncomplicated and rudimental palette of wood and concrete is employed both on the exterior and interior.

Columbia River Valley Lookout in British Columbia, Canada – Building Information

Architecture & Interior Design: Twobytwo Architecture Studio – https://www.twobytwo.ca/

Construction Company: Zimmerman Construction

Project size: 2450 ft2
Site size: 267895 ft2
Project Budget: CAD 750,000.00
Completion date: 2023
Building levels: 3

Photography: Hayden Pattullo

Columbia River Valley Lookout, Kootenay Mountains, BC images / information received 250423

Location: Kootenay Mountain Range, British Columbia, Canada, North America

Canada Architecture

Vancouver Architecture Designs – chronological list

Vancouver Architecture Walking Tours : city walks by e-architect

Canada Architecture Design – chronological list

Canadian Houses

Martin’s Lane Winery Building, Okanagan Valley, southern British Columbia, Canada
Design: Olson Kundig, Architects

photo courtesy of Vik Retreats
Martin’s Lane Winery Building