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The self-sufficient residence operates entirely on solar power and includes an incinerating toilet and a rainwater collection and filtration system.

While homeowners Chadd and Sean wait to find just the right bed frame, they happily make do with a mattress under a Hudson's Bay blanket—an iconic piece of Canadiana—in the wood-panelled loft.

At the far end of the “living shed” is a fireplace and concrete bench, which offers a contemplative space for reading and watching the bushland through the windows.

A simple shed-like form disguises a taste for the contemporary and detailed craftsmanship.

side of house showing roof angle

The studio comprises two equally sized spaces—one for Miriam and one for Simon—connected by double doors. The in-between space acts as storage, a small kitchenette, and Miriam’s dark room. Each studio space has been designed to meet the specific needs of the artist. Miriam’s space, for example, is punctuated by an enormous round window that allows her to draw inspiration from the surrounding landscape, while the walls in Simon’s space are dedicated to timber and tool storage.

Artist and homeowner Simon Quinn in his studio space. Clerestory windows run along one wall, allowing natural light into the studio without compromising storage needs.

For the sake of affordability and durability, the architect employed vinyl flooring for $5,980 throughout the ADU. In the open-plan kitchen/dining/living area, a vaulted ceiling lends a feeling of luxury and spaciousness.

Natalie and Lauren wanted to replicate the feel of a Zen garden with their home’s central courtyard. The garden features a Japanese maple that pops against the charred timber cladding, while structurally, the U-shape design ushers light right through to the back of the house.

The main living space has a couch from Room & Board and rugs from Dash and Albert, all in colors that reflect the rural parcel. The wood sculpture hanging on the wall is by Don Best.

Laurelhurst Residence

Laurelhurst Residence

Glass bulbs serve as vases and pots for flowers and small plant.