Perched where suburban tranquility meets untamed coastline in Victoria, British Columbia, the Shoreline House by Splyce Design redefines waterfront living through a masterful blend of preservation and innovation. Originally a 1960s dwelling, the property now emerges as a beacon of environmentally sensitive architecture, balancing rugged site constraints with sweeping 180-degree views of the Salish Sea.
Tasked with reimagining the structure, the studio championed a sustainable renovation over demolition—minimizing ecological disruption while maximizing poetic resonance with the landscape. This commitment directly shaped their approach to the site’s significant challenges.
The project navigated strict waterfront setbacks and protected marine habitats, dictating an irregular footprint for the compact, single-story addition. Housing a primary bedroom and ensuite, the extension appears to hover above rocky outcrops, its recessed concrete foundation avoiding over-excavation. A soaring 13-foot roof cantilevers dramatically over a screen wall, clad in light-stained cedar that contrasts with the original home’s dark, granite-inspired finishes—a deliberate dialogue between old and new, wild and refined.
Approach sequences unfold like choreography: a colonnade-lined staircase guides visitors to the entrance, heightening anticipation for the panoramic ocean vistas within. Inside, expansive windows dissolve boundaries between interior and exterior. Some feature concealed frames for seamless visual flow; others act as curated viewfinders, capturing shifting light, tidal patterns, and reflections that animate living spaces throughout the day.
Landscape integration proved pivotal. Native vegetation weaves through patios and pathways, while mature fir and oak trees frame the structure. The design honors West Coast architecture traditions, prioritizing materials that weather gracefully and forms that echo the site’s natural rhythms.
Shoreline House stands as a testament to thoughtful contemporary design—where restraint becomes a virtue and ecological responsibility elevates aesthetic ambition. Splyce Design’s intervention transcends mere addition; it cultivates a profound kinship between shelter and environment, proving that the most resonant Canadian architecture emerges not in spite of constraints, but because of them.