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    • Old to New

      July 18, 2020

      Nothing makes us happier when someone is so impressed with one of our previous projects that they decide to hire us to build their own Shuswap dream.

      That’s the case with this new project in Eagle Bay, which will consist of complete demolition of an existing lakefront cabin and construction of an incredible new home. The Calgary homeowners have been coming to the Shuswap for years, but recently decided to move here full time. When they took a tour through their neighbours’ new home, which we constructed last year, they decided to move forward with us.

      The initial hope was that a new home could be built on the original home’s foundation, but when performed numerous tests on the foundation, we found it simply wasn’t constructed properly. So the entire structure will be demolished, and the new house will be moved toward road to conform to the 15 meter Ministry of Environment setback regulations.

      In siting the new home, we paid special attention to the driveway slope and access to Eagle Bay road to ensure safe access, particular in winter conditions.

      Inspections resulted in the discovery of asbestos, so we have hazmat crews on site next week to remove it prior to demolition. We have already completed archaeological, geotechnical and floodplain assessments, and we’re working with Triton Environmental to assess and monitor our on-site lake protection measures as required by the CSRD throughout construction. Hydrological engineering and septic designs have been completed; the design is intricate to ensure the fit of the septic field between the house and road, as well as tank location for gravity feed from the main floor.

      Exceptional plans have been created by Kelly Meyer. They are so detailed that they allow all of us to confidently work through the planning, pre-estimate and design processes, not only for the home, but for landscaping, rock walls and septic installation.

      As you can see from the conceptual drawings below, the home will be stunning—for example, note the wealth of lake-facing windows (which, incidentally, require engineering and a steel structure to stiffen the lake wall and protect it from wind flex).

      Kitchen designs are well underway by Deanne Roberts of Fine & Dandy Design. Mechanical system designs for HVAC, plumbing and electrical are also underway. We’re also reviewing options for solar and radiant floor heat, with an on-demand boiler for radiant and house water.

      Other work to date includes securing of a demolition permit, a 100 meter lakes development permit, construction insurance, and Travelers home warranty. WCB has been notified of demolition. We have also completed a hydro design review, with a decision made to upgrade to 400 amp service. And lake water drilling and pump design have been reviewed, and installation is in progress.

      We look forward to all of our projects, but needless to say, we’re particularly looking forward to completing this outstanding home given its features and challenges!