Backhouse

The Backhouse was developed as a versatile housing prototype intended to integrate within pre-existing neighbourhoods and help alleviate housing scarcity. Envisioned as a backyard or laneway unit, this 600 square foot dwelling is intended to promote gentle densification within established urban, suburban or rural neighbourhoods. The Backhouse also provides opportunity for passive rental income to homeowners while also promoting diverse housing opportunities.

The formal design of the Backhouse places a balance between intimacy and openness. The tall central gathering space defines a sharp contrast to the model’s compact footprint producing a vertical sense of spaciousness. The open floorplan offers a smooth transition between the gathering and private spaces reducing the spatial losses often created by circulation corridors.

Thoughtful window placements generate a dialogue between the interior and exterior spaces - extending the spatial feeling of the rooms. Light from the high windows and skylight wash across the interior surfaces emphasizing the verticality of the space.

Like all our models, the interior and exterior material finishes are versatile and adaptable to each local building culture ensuring simple construction practices and affordability. This model presents a study in reduction where light and materials are pared back to their essentials and what emerges is a clear relationship between simplicity, functionality and value.

To learn more about the process, contact us today

Project Overview

1 - Primary Bedroom

1 - Primary Bathroom

Living + Dining + Kitchen

Laundry

Primary Dimensions: 20 feet x 35 feet

Gross Built Area : 513 square feet

Main Floor Area - 496 square feet

Exterior Patio Floor Area - 17 square feet

Details

In-Floor Heating Compatible

Wood Burning Fireplace Compatible

Wrap-around Deck as required

Finishes

Exterior Walls: Multiple Options Available - Cedar or Hemlock, Standing Seam Metal or other

Interior Floor: Multiple Options Available - Polished Concrete or Hardwood or other

Interior Walls: Multiple Options Available - White Oak, Drywall, Plaster or other

Suggested Budget *

• Backhouse System Kit: $77,000

• Shipping (dependant on location): $15,000

• Excavation and Foundation: $22,000

• Services and Trades: $39,000

• Rough Structure Assembly: $15,000

• Windows and Doors: $36,000

• Insulation and Membranes: $25,000

• Exterior Finishes and Roofing: $55,000

• Interior Finishes and Fixtures: $65,000

Total Construction Cost Estimate: $349,000 CAD

* This suggested budget is dependant on your specific site requirements, project locations, interior and exterior finish selections and other factors effecting market pricing.

* System Kit includes architecture services including drawings, structural engineering, and structural project panels to be delivered to site. All other items to be provided by owner or their chosen general contractor.