Article by Michelle Heslop. Photos by Jody Beck.
The latest project for Falcon Heights Contracting is a testimony to the maxim, “if you can dream it, you can do it.” In step with their rapidly growing company, owners Joelle Bienvenue and Dave MacKenzie recognized the need to expand their office space and workshop to meet the increasing demand. Falcon Heights has recently added net-zero CHBA certified builder to their green building practices and are currently working on an ocean front home that will be the first net-zero certified project on Vancouver Island. With over an acre of land on their Goldstream property, the couple had the adequate space to meet their needs and built over 2000-square-feet of open plan workshop and office space adjacent to their home.
Design-wise the list of requirements was extensive and came down to creating two distinct multi-functional spaces. The main floor houses the impressive workshop with enough space to work on timber aspects such as decks, frames, stairs and doors and includes an outdoor workspace and sufficient storage for tools and equipment. On the upper level, the couple designed a purpose-built office space for administration and client meetings.
For the exterior, the couple wanted the facade to harmonize with its natural surrounding while complementing their existing home’s colours and timber frame accents. The building has a low maintenance exterior with all locally sourced materials. “We repurposed material for fencing, feature walls and storage bays doors, using those materials as a sampling tool as well,” says Bienvenue.
A natural light-filled workshop with exposed glulam beams eliminates the need for structural posts and created 2000-square-feet of open concept work and storage space. Bienvenue adds that “three ten-foot overhead doors allow for easy access and transfer of large equipment and materials. Large storage bays with clever roll outs have doubled our shelving space.”
For durability and easy care, concrete floors were used throughout the workshop. Industrial shelving and storage racks keep everything in its place and a place for everything.
Upstairs, the office features a natural fusion of rustic and contemporary styles to create an inviting and comfortable space with an abundance of natural light. Divided by rustic barn doors, the office is separated into a large space with a conference table and two desks separated by a shared island. A wood stove in the corner provides a homey and inviting feeling in the winter months.
Feature walls create display space for this award winning company.
The other side of the office can play double duty as a guest accommodation when necessary, complete with a bathroom with soaker tub, mini-kitchen and sitting area.
“We cannot believe how efficient, practical and organized our working space is now. Not only are tools accessible and safely stored, but we now have a spacious and comfortable place to meet clients. The new space has allowed us to produce and craft beautiful timber elements, as well as store materials for drying and painting. The new space has completely helped our company reach new standards and allows us an increased capacity and scope of growth.”
