I've just returned from a vacation in Kelowna B.C., in the beautiful Okanagan valley. I viewed several model homes in Wilden, a new large development which features many different builders. The West Coast architectural style is a style to love. The wood beams, stonework, large, vast expanses of open space concept in the residential housing. It makes the style we Ontarians are used to, look very uptight and conservative.
The mountains, lakes and valleys are the reason why purchasing a house at the top of a hill with a killer view is so important on the west coast. And the views are maximized with large custom-sized windows and fold-away walls of glass doors instead of sliding glass doors. I guess there's no mosquito problem in the west.
The outdoor patio area in these luxury homes was an extension of the inside space and during the warm months is an extra room just beyond the living room. Every home I looked at had outdoor fireplaces and outdoor kitchens.
The homes had high ceilings and in many cases had exposed 2 storey rises throughout the home. The indoor fireplaces were featured extensively in the homes and gave a real appearance of ambience and warmth.
I love taking in the finishes, decor accents and the interesting living alternatives in model homes.
Cheers to Western Canada!
