Greenwood House

Location: Galiano Island, British Columbia, Canada

House area: 3,000 square feet/279 square metres

Description: Set on a shallow strip of land on the northwest edge of Galiano Island, one of the southern Gulf Islands of British Columbia, the house is bounded to the southwest by the water of Trincomali Channel and on the northeast by dense forest. The available site is constrained by setback requirements from both the high-tide line and the main island road that passes by above the property.

Paralleling the shoreline, a single 14-inch (35.5-centimeter) diameter ridge beam acts as the datum for a continuously modulated structural skeleton of 9-inch (22.8-centimeter) diameter rafters. Exposed at each end in a set of exterior rooms, this structural system reaches out into the landscape, suggesting the bleached bones of a large fish washed up on shore. The movements of the roof on the seaside are calibrated to water views, reflected light, existing vegetation, and the provision of shade. On the forest side, a continuous skylight provides cool, dappled forest light.

The roof framing connects with the ground through an ordered series of interior columns running the length of the building. Partitions between columns organise the program to generate small spaces. Programmatic divisions are further reinforced through the treatment of floor surfaces. Living areas and bedrooms are floored in wide cherry plank while the entranceway, kitchen, and utility areas are tied together by a continuous band of flagstones flooring.