When a family of four purchased the old cedar-clad cabin in Whistler, the structure was well-sited, but in dire need of repairs. While they originally intended to tear down the home and rebuild it on site, Vancouver–based firm Stark Architecture brought forth another plan. The team advised the owners to renovate and extend the existing structure, and integrate additional complexes on the property, which could serve as rental units.

The Drifter Way House, as the project is called, now consists of the original three-bedroom primary residence, along with a rentable three-bedroom suite, and a rentable two-bedroom building. "Tying the buildings together was tricky," explain the architects. "But the use of standing seam metal and more industrial materials, along with a small amount of warm wood, complements the traditional shapes of the existing cabin." Scroll ahead for a fascinating look at the project before and after the revamp.

Before: The Residence

After: The Residence

After: The Extension Site

Before: The Kitchen

After: The Kitchen

Shop the Look

Before: The Dining Area

After: The Dining Area

Project Credits:

Architect of Record: Stark Architecture, Inc. , David Arnott

Builder/General Contractor: Balmoral Construction, Marc Harvey

Structural Engineer: Twin Peaks Engineering, Ben Towsey

Interior Design: Downey Design, Brittany Downey

Photography: Krista Jahnke

Before & After: A Rundown Cabin Is Reborn as a Chic Residence and Retreat