Canadian Design is in tune with what the Danes call modern. A legacy of Danish influence has evolved into a distinctly Canadian style synonymous with functionality, simplicity of shape and the au naturel. Vancouver-based practices Burgers Architecture and Sophie Burke Design have this Nordic ethos running through their veins. Equipped with a Canadian design sensibility, they have softened a ski cabin into a truly unique family home.
ARCHITECTURE Burgers Architecture | INTERIOR DESIGN Sophie Burke Design | PHOTOGRAPHY Ema Peter

It was almost certain this would be no ordinary abode from the project’s inception. Building on the design, development and construction of the home by Burgers Architecture, the clients came to Sophie Burke Design with a wide-encompassing brief: a warm, light-filled family ski cabin that incorporates the locally sourced and natural materials, while adhering to leading eco friendly standards and practices. Keeping across all of these facets was no easy feat, but Sophie Burke managed by addressing each on a different level. The home was to be practical and accommodating to the demands of the environment – for kids, ski boots and pets alike. Sophie Burke Design worked with local producers on all millwork, for custom-made bunkbeds, sofas, stairs and cabinetry. It’s a winning combination employing local craftsmen to use local materials; wrapping the walls with white-washed hemlock timber and the bench tops with Vancouver Island marble.

Both client and architect shared an appreciation for the alpine outlook, further embraced by full-height windows and sliding doors across an entire half of the open plan living. The home opens up miraculously before you, punctuated by the glow of snowy natural light and united by a gentle palette of grey and tan tones. Burgers Architecture worked for over three years to curate and develop those mountain views – and we must say it’s worth all their efforts.
To offset the harder surfaces, Sophie Burke Design leaned on organic, natural elements. Regular readers will know we immediately gravitate to the soft edges and raw textures; with locally designed ceramics and a Hiroshima dining setting by Maruni only adding to this elemental feel. It’s the kind of clean and contemporary that immediately puts you at ease, where concrete is softened by the timber and timber is softened by the leather, linen and wool.
The Whistler House tactfully captures the evolution of Canada’s west coast design and architecture while paying homage to its Scandinavian heritage. By meeting all aspects of the brief, it’s a front runner in innovative building practices, without compromising on the calm and homey feeling we all yearn for – especially when it’s all-white outside.







‘From the the layout, space planning, staircase and millwork to the bedding, towels, artwork and vases, we were able to execute on a vision of serene simplicity and warmth.’
— Sophie Burke Design










This house is BEYOND lush! LOVE IT!
Wow I think this is my favourite house ever
All time fav – love it
Hi great article. Could you advise what the material is for the fireplace. https://d3s071ec8o9llc.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/est-living-vancouver-house-sophie-burke-designs-9.jpg
Thank you
Ryan
Beautiful project, love the light, the millwork and the feel of the house. The bathroom and the bunks are really amazing!
Hi Ryan,
Apologies for the delayed response. We don’t have the specific material for this fireplace, you’d need to contact Burgers Architecture for this. Am sure if you email them they can help you 🙂
Thanks,
Melia