Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine April 2024 issue

What makes Revelstoke home? p · 12. Making Revelstoke affordable, p · 16.

What's next for Mackenzie Village, p · 24. Yards and gardens in Revelstoke, p · 31.

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Revelstoke Mountaineer Magazine is a free monthly publication featuring the best of Revelstoke outdoor life, food, style, visitor experiences, lifestyles, entertainment, home style and healthy living.

We are an independent, locally owned publication dedicated to showcasing our amazing mountain town and the great people who create the stoke.

Each issue we distribute 2,000 copies to public venues across Revelstoke, including hotel rooms, shops, restaurants, cafes, community centres — everywhere people meet.

For all inquiries, please contact us at info@revelstokemountaineer.com

For more local news visit www.revelstokemountaineer.com

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Introduction

Here is our annual Home issue, Discourse Community Publishing Style. Can I be honest with you? This issue was kind of terrifying to put together. As someone familiar with the housing crisis across B.C., it was really intimidating to try and put a bow on housing in Revelstoke.

But there are solutions with nearly every interview in this issue. Blake Richards at Earthwright Shelter Company is creating auxiliary housing units to help with densification in Revelstoke. Elisa Gilbert with ReFramed Construction chatted about ways to make a house feel like home and how her company is adding that flair. Mike Brooks-Hill with Revelstoke Community Housing Society shared what they’re working on to create more affordable housing in Revelstoke.

Learning what makes Revelstoke home for folks was an incredible privilege. In my talks with Revelstokians, I heard from those who started businesses here decades ago and have watched this community grow, people who were raised here and left for other pastures only to come back and those who meant to stay for a ski season and are now raising families here. I appreciate everyone who trusted me with their story. It’s really starting to feel like home here.

- Lys Morton, community journalist

THE PEAK OF SUSTAINABLE LIVING

REINVENTING THE MODERN MOUNTAIN LIFESTYLE

1.5 km to Revelstoke Mountain Resort and only a 5 minute walk to downtown Revelstoke.

Made for optimal living conditions to the highest sustain ability codes.

Step Code 5: Net Zero Energy status with Passive House Certified windows and doors. For

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8 EVENTS

Find out what’s happening in and around Revelstoke this month in the events calendar. Don’t forget to add your community event online at revelstokemountaineer.com.

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NEWS BRIEFS

Learn about what is happening locally, from council news to city updates.

12TERS

WHAT MAKES REVELSTOKE HOME?

Locals share what brought them to Revelstoke and why they stayed.

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CHANGING BYLAWS COULD PROVIDE ACCESSIBLE HOUSING OPTIONS IN REVELSTOKE

Diverse Family Roots Society’s Ben Postmus chats with the Mountaineer about how changing auxiliary unit bylaws could provide much needed accessible housing.

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MAKING REVELSTOKE AFFORDABLE

Revelstoke Community Housing Society talks project updates and what’s next for the organization.

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EARTHWRIGHT SHELTER COMPANY PRIMED TO PROVIDE EXTRA HOUSING IN REVELSTOKE

Learn how Earthwright Shelter Company is working to provide accessible housing in and around Revelstoke.

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THE MOVE TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE BUILDING PRACTICES

The Mountaineer chats with the winner of the 2023 Revelstoke Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Award for Sustainability.

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WHAT'S NEXT FOR MACKENZIE VILLAGE

Mackenzie Village developer David Evans chats the latest for the Revelstoke housing and business hub.

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STOKEDLIVING COMBINES REVELSTOKE VIBES WITH SUSTAINABLE LIVING

Paradigm Building Solutions CEO shares what makes homes in the Stokedliving neighbourhood ecofriendly and wildfire resistant.

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REFRAMED CONSTRUCTION BRINGS WOMEN INTO BUILDING

The women-led construction company is bringing home renovation projects to life.

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HOW TO UPGRADE YOUR HOME WITHOUT SACRIFICING HISTORY

One local shares how his family improved the sustainability of their house, without losing its Revelstoke charm.

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INTERIOR DESIGN 101

Whether through working with a professional or designing a unique space yourself, here are some tips to help you elevate your home.

31

YARDS AND GARDENS IN REVELSTOKE

Bloomworks Gardening shares what makes Revy yards unique.

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PUZZLES

Try your hand at April’s puzzles and check your answers for last month!

Committed to creating spaces that enthusiastically reflect the unique people who inhabit them .

hopkinsinterior . design

APRIL 2024 CALENDAR

APRIL EVENTS

SATURDAY, APRIL 6

REVELSTOKE MEN’S SHED INFORMATION MEET-UP

Revelstoke Community Centre, MacPherson Room, 600 Campbell Ave., 10:30 a.m.

Men’s Sheds are groups to build healthy men and healthy communities. Learn skills, build projects together and find new friends. A group from the Men's Shed in Salmon Arm will be coming to share their experience and enthusiasm for their Shed.

SUNDAY, APRIL 7

LOCALS DAY

Revelstoke Mountain Resort, 2950 Camozzi Rd., 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Grab your skis, your board, your helmet and head out for the last Locals Day of the season! $20 lift tickets get you on the hill, $10 gets you standard rentals and all high performance rentals are 50 per cent off. Proof of residency is required.

SUNDAY, APRIL 7

LIVE TO DANCE

Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre, 1007 Vernon Ave., 4:30 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Come cheer on some of the youth dancers in Revelstoke as they perform solos, duos and small group ensembles.

SUNDAY, APRIL 7

PAMFF REVELSTOKE FILM EXHIBITION

Paramjit’s Kitchen, 116 - 1 St. West, 6 p.m.

Celebrate the end of the ski season with some homegrown ski and board films at the PAMFF Revelstoke Film Exhibition. Local riders and filmmakers will show their craft with the top five taking home prizes. Free entry, apple strudel and Indian spice fusion popcorn available.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10

PADDLING POOL SESSION

Revelstoke Community Centre, 600 Campbell Ave., 7:15 p.m. - 10:15 p.m.

Revelstoke Paddle Sport Association invites its members and those interested in registering ahead of time to take advantage of the monthly paddle skills session at the Revelstoke Aquatic and Community Centre. Brush up on some whitewater rafting skills and get ready for the summer season.

THURSDAY, APRIL 11

JAM NIGHT

The Last Drop Pub, 200 3 St. West, 9 p.m. - 12 a.m.

Swing by The Last Drop and enjoy a jamming open mic. All artists, genres and skill levels are welcome to try their hand at the stage and maybe collaborate on a tune or two. Hosted by Andrew Vierich, alongside Bambino and Joel, it’s a welcoming and encouraging platform.

FRIDAY, APRIL 12

EVOLVE GALLERY SOCIAL

Art First Gallery, 113 First St. East, 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Celebrate new artists at Art First Gallery and enjoy fresh releases from some of your favorite artists. Check out what’s planned for the gallery and enjoy a cash bar, complimentary snacks and door prizes for attendees.

FRIDAY, APRIL 12

THE VERY OLD MAN WITH ENORMOUS WINGS

Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre, 1007 Vernon Ave., 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Inspired by Gabriel García Márquez’s darkly comic tale, a couple are sheltering something most peculiar in their chicken coop. Using music, puppetry and live video projection, im-

merse yourself in this emotionally rich story, suitable for ages 8 and up.

SATURDAY, APRIL 13

TRIO MÉTIS FIDDLE PERFORMANCE

FEATURING BRIANNA LIZOTTE

Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre, 1007 Vernon Ave., 7 p.m. - 8:30 pm.

Brianna Lizotte, hailing from Edmonton, Alberta will be bringing the energetic style Métis fiddling is known for. Hear stories about Brianna growing up with music in the home, hear some original songs and enjoy a bit of jazz and swing mixed in as well. Indigenous vendors will be at the event. 12 and younger are free admission.

SUNDAY, APRIL 14

CLOSING DAY WITH SKIITOUR

Revelstoke Mountain Resort, 2950 Camozzi Rd., 3 p.m. - 6 p.m.

That’s it, the season is wrapped. After your last day on the hill make sure to celebrate at the Paul Mair Plaza with D.J. SkiiTour. The celebration is free and open to all ages (capacity restrictions may apply). Dress in your best retro ski gear.

Enjoy Pharis and Jason at the Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre.

Photo provided by Arts Revelstoke

Celebrate the end of another ski season Sunday, April 14.

Photo provided by Revelstoke Mountain Resort

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17

POETRY MONTH

CELEBRATION

Revelstoke Library, 1007 Vernon Ave., 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Celebrate Poetry Month with award winning poets Jane Byers, Leesa Dean and Rayya Liebich. Enjoy an evening of author readings, poetry mad-libs, writing prompts and all things love of poetry. Bring something to write on and join in on the fun!

THURSDAY, APRIL 18

REVELSTOKE WINTER MARKET

Revelstoke Community Centre, 600 Campbell Ave., 11 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

It’s the last winter market of the season! Make sure to swing by and check out your favorite vendors before the market moves to summer Saturday hours and First Street location.

THURSDAY, APRIL 18

PHARIS AND JASON ROMERO

Revelstoke Performing Arts Centre, 1007 Vernon Ave., 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Pharis and Jason Romero, Juno award and Canadian Folk Music award winners bring their B.C. Folk music for an evening of songs that make you want to pull out all your old records. Hailing from Horsefly, B.C., the duo will perform a collection of classic favorites and some newly written tunes as well.

THURSDAY, APRIL 25

MEMBER’S SHOW AND GOLDEN GIRLS

Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre, 320 Wilson St., 3 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Come celebrate 20 years of Revelstoke Visual Arts Centre’s gallery at the opening and social of the member’s show. Chat with the artists, enjoy drinks and snacks and see what local artists are creating. Plus, tour the Golden Girls exhibit.

VOTING FOR NEW REVELSTOKE CITY LOGO CLOSES

WILDSIGHT ENCOURAGES COUNCIL TO CEASE OLD GROWTH LOGGING IN REGION

SIMPSON STREET REZONING DIVIDES COUNCIL

Revelstoke’s city logo is getting a revamp in an effort to harmonize Revelstoke’s visual elements.

“You go around town, and there are all of these design elements that don’t match up entirely,” Francesca Williams, City of Revelstoke’s new communications coordinator told the Mountaineer. “People might not be up front aware of it. But your brain notices the disjointed visuals.”

Logos and branding for the City of Revelstoke aren’t unified across city signs, letterheads, physical and digital graphics or even on city work vehicles, something that Williams wanted to tackle as one of her first projects.

Voting closed Sunday, March 31 and Williams will present the findings and potential winner to council who will then decide what logo to go forward with. Council does have the right to make minor adjustments to the chosen design or to continue using the existing logo. Then Williams and staff will work with resources in town to finalize the project and overall Revelstoke branding guide. The chosen Revelstoke logo will be unveiled on Canada Day.

Eddie Petryshen, Wildsight conservation specialist and Kristi Chorney, Wildsight board president met with council to request an immediate cease of old growth logging in the Goldstream CP 310 Block L area, currently managed by Revelstoke Community Forest Corporation (RCFC), until council can tour the area with Wildsight. Wildsight also asked that council look into alternative economic streams for RCFC, following the direction of other municipalities throughout B.C.

“Municipalities in B.C. are making more money managing carbon than logging,” Petryshen told council, breaking down economic alternatives Revelstoke could adapt to replace old growth logging in the region.

Continued logging of the area could eventually be viewed the same way logging in the Brazilian rainforest is viewed, Coun. Tim Palmer noted, expressing his desire to view the proposed work area. Polling shows support for old growth protection across age demographics, Petryshen told the Mountaineer.

“Most residents of B.C. agree with protecting old growth, even when it comes with some economic implications.”

Old growth forests throughout the Columbia–Shuswap Regional District are classified as a red-listed ecosystem due to habitat loss, prompting Wildsight and other environmental organizations to request municipal and provincial actions to protect what currently remains.

“I believe RCFC is ahead of the game in how we are adapting,” Mayor Gary Shultz commented, but noted he was willing to support pausing actions until a June field trip into the region for council to see for themselves the impact of logging in the area.

Proposed rezoning for 411 and 501 Simpson St. took up a majority of the March 26 council meeting. With staff working to finalize the Zoning Bylaw Comprehensive Re-write Project, the possible rezoning could either stick the property into a zone category that would soon be defunct or put the property in a proposed zone category that Revelstoke residents have yet to review and comment on.

Rezoning the area could be done through two different bylaws according to city planner Paul Simon. The first step would be to create a new MultiUnit Row-House Zone (R6) for the area, and then rezone the property from Special Low Density Residential Zone (R2A) to the Multi-Unit Rowhouse Zone (R6) to accommodate the development of proposed row house dwellings and auxiliary units.

Currently provincial legislation restricts public hearings for residential rezoning applications that align with a municipality’s Official Community Plan, meaning a public hearing on the project isn’t feasible. But a developerled public information meeting for the project could be used to provide community members with more information on the proposed development.

Coun. Orlando and Coun. Stapenhurst opposed second and third readings of the bylaw. Coun. Orlando, Coun. Stapenhurst and Coun. Palmer opposed the adoption of zoning amendment bylaw No. 2378.

Revelstoke logo sketches were revealed to residents at the 2024 Winter Carnival. Photo provided by the City of Revelstoke

Wildsight’s Revelstoke representatives offered Revelstoke city council a field trip of the proposed logging area. Photo provided by Wildsight

Council met for a March 26 council meeting.

Photo captured from YouTube stream

REVELSTOKE LEGION UNDER TRUSTEE CONTROL UNTIL COMPLIANCE ISSUES SORTED

BC WILDFIRE REVELSTOKE BASE TO BREAK GROUND IN EARLY FALL

At a March 20 meeting, BC Yukon Legion Command explained some of the circumstances that led to the sudden closure of Revelstoke Legion Branch 46. Liquor infractions, unpaid membership dues and unpaid taxes were some of the key issues that brought command to locking the legion and placing the branch under trustee.

“We weren’t expecting this kind of turn out,” Craig Thompson, BC Yukon Command president told the crowd of over 70 attendees. “This is a good sign, we can work with this."

With only 22 members on the registry, legion command was worried they would be coming down to a dying legion, Thompson explained. But when asked who were legion members, nearly two-thirds of the audience raised their hand.

“That shows us this is a strong legion,” Thompson said. “All of you here who are not legion members, who are community members wanting to show support, that shows us this is an asset to the community.”

Thompson explained that previous trusteeships at other branches have run from just a few months to years, depending on how long it takes to get the branch back in compliance and with management command feels comfortable with. But he expressed his personal desire to keep the community in the loop and legion members aware of any and all changes.

“Our goal, our mandate is to vets, to their families and to the community. And this is a community that is showing me it cares about their legion.”

Groundbreaking for the BC Wildfire Service and Ministry of Forests’ Fire Base at the Revelstoke Airport is expected early fall, but the exact schedule will be dependent on the contractor awarded the project. Construction tenure will be posted in April for bidding. In an email to staff, Kandy Schroder, project management analyst from BC Wildfire Service, wrote that the project has not faced any delays at the time and remains a priority for the province and funding has already being committed.

“The Columbia fire zone will be a model for other new builds going forward,” Schroder shared, assuring Revelstoke City Council the project will be concluded within a reasonable timeframe.

Revelstoke legion members raise their hands when asked who was a member at a March 30 meeting.

Photo by Lys Morton

The Revelstoke Airport seen from above.

Photo by Aaron Orlando

WHAT MAKES REVELSTOKE HOME?

REVELSTOKIANS SHARE WHAT BROUGHT THEM TO TOWN AND WHY THEY STAYED.

By Lys Morton

What makes Revelstoke your home? Is it staff at your favorite coffee shop knowing your order the moment you walk in the door? Maybe it’s every time you experience the Revy Honk – a quick tap on the horn as someone you know passes by and gives an eager wave.

Or is it stopping at the grocery store and running into someone you know there, heading over to the community centre and chatting with someone at the entrance or bumping into friends while taking the dogs for a walk?

Maybe Revelstoke has been home for your family since back when it was known as Farwell, while the Canadian Pacific Railway was setting up shop in the region. Maybe your relations go further still, before colonization. Or maybe Revelstoke became home six months ago.

Many folks will refer to the Revelstoke spirit when explaining why they chose to make this city home. It’s an attitude built from needing to quickly adapt to changing circumstances, as well as a willingness to help each other out.

“I feel safe here like I’ve never felt anywhere else,” Lane Seabrock told the Revelstoke Mountaineer. “I’ve been to other places, I’ve stayed in other towns. This feels safe, this feels like home. People look out for you.”

Walter Bough moved to Revelstoke for a job. That was well over 40 years ago and he’s found no reason to leave.

“I was fortunate, I had an opportunity to purchase land and had a job that allowed me to build a house here for my family,” Bough said. “I have everything I need here. Why leave this beautiful place?”

Revelstoke is home for Rob Nobel for the ways the community seems driven to work together.

“There are other companies in town that do the same property work I do,” Nobel said. “If they don’t think they’re a fit for the project, they’ll tell the customer to reach out to me. I do the same. If I have too much work on my plate, I’ll send folks to them.”

Working with those who would be considered competition in other municipalities keeps Revelstoke’s businesses adapting with a fluctuating workforce and seasonal demand.

“Everyone is really looking out for one another here,” Nobel said.

Brittany McCabe only intended to stay in Revelstoke for a ski season over seven years ago before making the trip back to Ontario. Meeting the person who would become her partner hours after arriving helped keep McCabe in place longer than planned.

“That didn’t immediately change things but it prolonged how long I stayed.”

McCabe connected with her future partner at the River City Pub through a mutual friend. The two quickly bonded over the various winter activities that call many to Revelstoke; sledding, snowboarding and exploring the region’s natural charm.

It was joining the team at Revelstoke Credit Union that made Revelstoke feel truly like home, McCabe explained. Connecting with coworkers and clients who were born and raised here helped her learn all the things that make Revelstoke

the city it is.

“I think being in a position at an organization that’s been rooted into the community for 71 years and gives back to the community solidified why this is one of the most amazing places to call home,” McCabe said.

Finding connections through Revelstoke’s beloved businesses and organizations helps many people find their place in the community. Martina So said working as a cashier at Le Marché, Revelstoke’s gourmet specialty market, helped her find her place.

“When I got here, I didn’t know how long I would like to stay,” So said. She ended up staying for the last five years, and last year something in particular assured her Revelstoke was home.

“I got married here, so now I am going to stay. I have friends in this community.”

Cale Miller admitted it’s connections on the hill at Revelstoke Mountain Resort that make him feel at home.

“It’s cliche, I get it, the resort town story,” Miller said. “But I run into at least one person I know every time I’m at the hill, and then you either end up riding the Stoke chair together or you meet up for drinks after a run.”

Revelstoke’s nack for lending a helping hand has given Miller a chance to give back to the community, offering a quick ski tip for newcomers and visitors on the hill or offering help in exchange for a couple cans of Mount Begbie Brewery beer.

That community spirit, especially the generosity of strangers is what stands out for Bel Bartles who recently started calling Revelstoke home. She planned to stay for only one winter, but found a place in Revelstoke’s community choir and made quick connections.

“I stayed in town for the community, which felt strong and like a home I never had before.”

One particular RevyStuck story, the term used to explain the cases of either planning to stay in Revelstoke for a season and then staying much longer or being stuck in Revelstoke due to the highways closing, helped solidify things for Bartles. During a winter storm, a delivery of adoptable cats and dogs was stranded in Revelstoke.

“People were knocking on doors in our street to go and help clean cages, feed and walk animals,” Bartles shared, explaining this was a stark contrast to the large city she grew up in.

Moving away from Revelstoke confirmed it was home for Aleshia Byers, who spent time in Kelowna at Okanagan College before moving back.

“This is home,” Byers said, who works at the Revelstoke Starbucks location. “The team here at Starbucks, people in town, just the whole community. This is home because of that, I’m glad to be back.”

REACH OUT

Photo by Ivan Gorbenko

Presenting The Selkirks at Mackenzie Village

Steps from adventure: 2 km from Revelstoke Mountain Resort and adjacent to the future Cabot Pacific golf course.

Community and convenience: Rooftop amenities, shops and dining nearby; all just minutes from historic downtown Revelstoke.

Complete flexibility: Rent nightly, monthly or live full time.

CHANGING BYLAWS COULD PROVIDE ACCESSIBLE HOUSING OPTIONS IN REVELSTOKE

‘GENTLE DENSIFICATION ON A TRADITIONAL SINGLE FAMILY LOT BECOMES SO CRUCIAL TO SUPPORTING MULTI-GENERATIONAL FAMILIES STAYING TOGETHER,’ CITY PLANNER PAUL SIMON SAYS OF LANEWAY HOUSING.

By Lys Morton

Disabled and neurodivergent adults who require day-to-day support often struggle to find housing that is accessible and affordable. An increase in laneway housing and ease of development could provide more accessible housing for these groups according to Ben Postmus, the family navigator for Diverse Family Roots Society (DFRS).

“Keeping [disabled and neurodivergent adults] close to family, keeping supports close while also providing a space of independence is really achievable with this model,” Postmus explained. Because disabled and neurodivergent youth age out of various resources and supports around age 18, families and caregivers often struggle to create new supports while prioritizing independence.

Postmus himself is a father to a daughter with what he calls diverse abilities. She requires additional support, but when looking into various housing and support solutions in B.C., Postmus said there were none that fit his family needs. That was the catalyst for launching DFRS as a way to connect families with other housing solutions that might not be readily known.

“A lot of families feel like these are their only options, group home styles or the child remaining at home, and those are options that maybe don’t work for them, or they’re not comfortable putting their kid in.”

Group homes might not be affordable or accessible for all families, Postmus said, explaining

that families in rural areas are sometimes forced to move their child to a new city to access group home living, breaking community support and connections that the child grew up with.

Additionally, strategies such as home sharing, which connects families with a rental space that allows supports to come and go, communal meal times and other supports, are not ideal strategies for the long term.

“Just like any rental, there’s no guarantee it’s long term. Families tell me about their kid getting an eviction notice the same as anyone else would get, except it’s more than just housing that’s lost.”

Contract aid work, meal deliveries and other resources that come to a house can be lost indefinitely and can be hard to get back. Oftentimes resources rely on a stable address to locate individuals and are in high demand. A pause in services while new housing is found could result in spots being filled by waitlists for those services.

“Some stories, losing that home sharing may mean their child slipping through a lot of cracks.”

Laneway and auxiliary housing options on family property can provide the housing security rental properties can’t, allowing for longer term strategies and plans to be made.

“I think anyone can tell you once you get rid of the threat of losing a rental, it opens up so much more mental space.”

Independence as a housing need

Laneway housing as accessible housing for disabled and neurodivergent adults can also be a key step towards independence, Postmus said. Keeping residents on a family property while giving them their own kitchen, living space and home to care for and decorate builds the skills for longer term housing strategies.

“They have their space. They’re still close to family, there can still be that support and checking in. But they have that independence which is so important for feeling like you’re growing up and maturing.”

However, families might not be aware of how to access other housing options, Postmus explained.

An example of an auxiliary housing option. Photo provided by Ben Postmus

As legislation rolls out for more auxiliary dwellings, DFRS is working to provide information for families about how to apply for zoning, building permits and other steps needed to add laneway housing and other units to their properties. It’s one of many strategies that could alleviate nuanced cases in the province’s housing crisis.

“That type of gentle densification on a traditional single family lot becomes so crucial to supporting multi-generational families staying together,” Revelstoke's senior planner Paul Simon told the Mountaineer.

Laneway and auxiliary housing can also provide accessible housing for those growing into disability as they age, Simon explained. Creating auxiliary housing options could provide a solution for a collection of housing struggles for aging residents.

“There are people in town who are overhoused,” Simon noted. Residents able to age in place might struggle to maintain large plots of land and multibedroom homes with stairs, facilities and layouts that start to impede access.

“Let’s provide them the resources and options to still live on their property, in the neighborhood they love and have connections in, and give them the chance to live in an easier home to care for while their kids or grandkids move into that bigger house.”

Laneway housing, like group homes and home sharing, might not be the best strategy for some families, Postmus acknowledged. Still, any strategy and piece of information could help families find or develop their own solutions.

“They can pick nuggets out of these conversations and bring them back to their own community and say, ‘hey, look at what they're doing in that community. Let’s try something like that here’.”

DFRS' housing series, Family Housing That Fits is hosted Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. via zoom. Registry is through diversefamilyroots@gmail.com. DFRS also hosts Dads Matter, a Sunday 6:30 p.m. Zoom support meeting for fathers of disabled and neurodivergent kids. Registry is through diversefamilyroots@gmail.com.

THE PEAK OF SUSTAINABLE LIVING

1.5 km to Revelstoke Mountain Resort and only a 5 minute walk to downtown Revelstoke.

Made for optimal living conditions to the highest sustainability codes.

Step Code 5: Net Zero Energy status with Passive House Certified windows and doors.

An example of an auxiliary housing option. Photo provided by Ben Postmus

MAKING REVELSTOKE AFFORDABLE

REVELSTOKE COMMUNITY HOUSING SOCIETY SAYS PROGRESS ON AFFORDABLE HOUSING IS BEING MADE.

By Lys Morton

Whether considered a resort town, a rail town or an arts town, Revelstoke hasn’t escaped the housing and rental affordability crisis that’s frontline news in various countries. So, what’s a small mountain town to do when housing affordability limits human resources and fuels frustration?

“This is a problem over a decade in the making,” Revelstoke Community Housing Society (RCHS) cochair Mike Brooks-Hill told Revelstoke Mountaineer. “We’re not going to snap our fingers and wow, the housing crisis is fixed. We’re doing the right things, but it’s going to take a while.”

RCHS began as a committee of residents advising city council on possible housing strategies in 2007. By January 2017, the group broke from the city and became an independent non-profit focusing on secure and affordable housing options. The organization now works with municipal, provincial and federal resources to push for more affordable housing in Revelstoke.

A collection of delays

When RCHS went independent, many things in the city were at a standstill, Brooks-Hill explained. High city staff turnover put various projects in limbo and stalled numerous permits and grants. But provincially and federally, the housing crisis wasn’t quite as large on the radar just yet, and support from

those branches wasn’t available.

“You could say we weren't getting anywhere with the city, but we weren't necessarily missing that many opportunities,” he said.

Since then, RCHS has been able to partner with BC Housing, take ownership of the BC Hydro Oscar Street townhomes and acquire funds through the Columbia Basin Trust to jump-start other projects. RCHS is still massively behind where they want to be, Brooks-Hill explained, but momentum is growing with a total of 38 units in their repository.

“At the end of the day, I think we’re all focused on the same goal.”

How is affordability determined?

RCHS’ current rental stock includes the Bridge Creek apartment complex, marketed as affordable housing with rent at $1150 per month plus utilities for one bedroom units. BC Housing supported the project by covering a majority of the construction costs and the City of Revelstoke leased the land to RCHS for $1 a year. Units are not pet friendly unless registered as a service animal and acceptance is capped based on income, a model that works to keep rent in the encouraged 30 per cent of a household’s total costs.

That income cap was a barrier to getting units filled initially according to Brooks-Hill. The

income requirements for all occupants of a unit is a collective $39,000 to $77,430, meaning many couples who together made just over that $77,430 were not eligible.

The Oscar Street townhomes and Oscar Duplex were also originally rented based on income. While some tenants within RCHS’ agreements are still on that model, Brooks-Hill said they are working to move away from it. Continually needing to check renter incomes and alter prices based on fluctuation is a stressor neither RCHS or renters want to deal with.

“It’s hard to chat with a client and go congrats, you've got this great job! Well, now your rent goes up $300 a month.”

The Bridge Creek apartments are one of various projects from RCHS.

Photo by RCHS

The Bridge Creek apartments provide garden boxes for tenants. Photo by RCHS

Alternative resources

There is a page on RCHS’ website dedicated to alternative housing solutions, including tiny homes, auxiliary dwelling units, co-operative housing and more. Some of those options are in the works, with recent provincial legislature opening the doors for more auxiliary dwelling units such as carriage homes and laneway housing.

“That one excites me especially,” Brooks-Hill said. “I think that’s going to be one more step in easing things.”

Previous plans for a tiny home village in Revelstoke have stalled, and BrooksHill said the units still fall into too many grey areas within bylaw regulations. But he’s hopeful enough groundwork was done that it will ease the process if and when someone else takes on the project.

Other options Brooks-Hill said are being discussed include co-operative housing, or a group collectively buying shares of a house. These are currently not an option in Revelstoke, but could have legs as Revelstoke continues to grow.

“Really, whatever option gets more housing into Revelstoke’s market I think needs to be on the table.”

Future plans

If Brooks-Hill had all the resources and tricks available, what would he want to see done differently when it comes to housing affordability in Revelstoke?

“Go back in time ten years and start doing what we’re doing now.”

Time travel aside, Brooks-Hill said the best action is to continue making partnerships with other organizations in town and trying to find the next project to take on.

“The city's been extremely good about keeping our board informed about what's going on with housing related issues.”

That includes the 420 Downie St. project with BC Housing, which purchased the property with a goal of creating affordable housing. RCHS has put in applications to be the community partner for the project.

With 420 Downie St. still in planning phases, new short-term rental regulations on the horizon and housing projects around Revelstoke in the works, Brooks-Hill is hopeful that Revelstoke will find its way out of the housing crisis, but acknowledged it won't happen overnight.

“I am more hopeful right now than I have been in the last five or six years.”

The Oscar Street townhomes were acquired by RCHS.

Photo by RCHS

The Oscar duplex is another project taken on by RCHS.

Photo by RCHS

ABOUT US

Two73 Design is a forward-thinking Lean design company with studios located in Revelstoke and Nelson, BC. We specialize in collaborating with esteemed clients to address design challenges across diverse sectors such as residential, multiunit housing, commercial, and retail. Our emphasis on sustainability and the use of low-carbon materials sets us apart.

We take pride in our partnerships with local design professionals, enabling us to deliver luxury solutions. Actively engaging in city Advisory commission boards, our dedicated team possesses the creative passion and expertise to tackle a range of project typepoglies and size. As a result, we have garnered a strong and loyal following among repeat clients and local builders.

EARTHWRIGHT SHELTER COMPANY PRIMED TO PROVIDE EXTRA HOUSING IN REVELSTOKE

CREATING MODULAR HOUSING AND SHELTERS, EARTHWRIGHT SHELTERS MAY BE PART OF THE DENSITY SOLUTION.

By Lys Morton

Providing shelter for those who aren't looking for an expansive house, but just someplace to call home has been Blake Richards’ goal since he was living on Salt Spring Island.

“Even out there, there are all these old buildings on that island, and I’m wondering what comes next?” Richards told the Revelstoke Mountaineer. “I

was trying to figure out how to make more homes for people.”

Richards is the founder of Earthwright Shelter Company, a Revelstoke-based company using modular building practices to create buildings that can be an extra office space or even a housing option. Modular builds rely on prefabricated components and core model plans to speed along building time and cut on production costs.

“What we're trying to aim to do is give people some safety and security and have it be beautiful,” Richards said.

While the last few years saw Earthwright Shelter Company make a name for themselves with accessory buildings and detached office spaces, custom jobs have included modular housing in and around Revelstoke. With a website relaunch and construction practices streamlined, Richards is ready to make housing a main focus for the company.

Building a modular shelter

In their Revelstoke warehouse, multiple projects move through in an assembly line style. One building waits for windows to be installed, one buzzes with activity as electric wiring and fixtures are wrapped up, one is being primed for painting and drywall touch-ups. Two massive doors on either side of the warehouse allow access in and out.

“We can start them on one end, roll them along and then when they’re done we load them on the truck and out the other door they go,” Richards explained.

Building a home within a sheltered area is a stress reliever for all parties. Working conditions remain fairly consistent when sheltered from the elements. Additionally, tools, supplies and resources remain at one location most of the time and don’t need to be transported to each site or duplicated for multiple projects.

“It’s one less cost I need to work into those final prices for my clients,” Richards said. “One more way we can make it cheaper.”

Kitchen and living space model for a previous client. Photo provided by Earthwright Shelter Company

Members of the Earthright Shelter Company team at their Revelstoke warehouse. Photo provided by Earthwright Shelter Company

Having a centralized building site also keeps his client’s property clear.

“We have barely any impact on the site, except for the bit of time where they're putting the foundation in and putting in the building.”

This controlled process allows for fewer variables to affect the final price, giving Richards confidence that he can provide customers with a price that won’t involve sticker shock down the road.

“I couldn't sleep at night handing somebody a bill that was $200,000 more than they expected,” Richards said.

Shifting provincial strategies

Currently all units built by Earthwright Shelter Company are CSA certified, falling under the A277 classification for modular builds. Unlike the standard tiny home on wheels or RV trailers, Earthwright Shelters’ need for a foundation on the property gives the chance for the asset to appreciate in value, and for lenders to feel more comfortable providing loans and financing.

Earthwright’s home builds can be placed in trailer parks, but they have the added advantage of not needing to stay there, allowing owners flexibility in case location circumstances change and units need to be moved.

“This can then go in one of those higher density zoned areas, where a trailer home has to stay in trailer parks.”

Provincial and federal moves to increase zone density in an effort to combat the housing crisis is one more area Richards sees Earthwright Homes stepping into. B.C.’s Bill 44 call for secondary units to be zoned for on all future property developments is a change Richards is eager to jump at.

“90 per cent of what we build for a customer, what I see us continuing to build for, goes right back into the Revelstoke community. That's a huge difference, It's a big deal.”

Whether it’s providing laneway housing, carriage housing or secondary suites on property, Richards sees modular housing as an accessible option.

“Not everyone wants to invest in multiple properties across the city. Let them keep that investment close and provide housing for folks.”

The costs of efficiency

Even when the build is done, Richards is thinking about the long term costs for those calling an Earthwright Shelters project home. Part of that comes down to the cost of heating and cooling a unit, and it’s progress that Richards is excited about.

“Smaller sizes are easier to climatize, thus cheaper,” Richards explained. “You’re not using massive amounts of energy to cool and heat four bedrooms and a basement and an attic.”

Triple pane windows provide protection from Revelstoke’s winters and summers while also allowing in natural light to cut down on lighting costs. LED light fixtures are standard for added efficiency. R28 insulation ratings in the floors and ceilings and R22 insulation ratings in walls are paired with airtight vapour barriers, providing better insulation and temperature control within the unit for all seasons. In-floor heating takes advantage of heat rising into the unit while also saving on floor and wall space. Lunos HRV ventilation systems are standard in each unit, providing air circulation and reducing humidity.

Currently, Earthwright Shelter Company is required to build to Step 3 of B.C.’s Energy Step Code. But Richards says he’s working on balancing between meeting future Step 4 requirements while also keeping costs affordable.

“The standard that we’re building to now is better than over 90 per cent of the current housing stock in the market,” Richards said. “I can be happy with that for the moment.”

It’s not easy to build housing that walks the lines of affordable, accessible, low impact and quick to build, Richards admitted. There are times, he said, where the possible next three years of construction costs and housing needs keeps him up at night. Still, the passion for providing shelters is what brings him back each day.

“We love what we do,” Richards said, referring to the entire Earthwright Shelter Company team. “We're making homes and we just have to fight that battle.”

APRIL 2024 REAL ESTATE UPDATE

Do you, a family member, colleague, or neighbour need some real estate advice, or want to know what houses in your neighbourhood are selling for? This is my invitation for you to call or pass along my details. I look forward to connecting with our great community!

Once completed, modular

THE MOVE TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE BUILDING PRACTICES

WINNER OF THE 2023 REVELSTOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARD FOR SUSTAINABILITY, ADAPTIVE HOMES LTD. CRAFTS QUALITY BUILDS THAT MEET NET ZERO STANDARDS.

By Melissa Jameson

Adaptive Homes Ltd.’s first build remains a favourite for co-owner Jocoah Sorensen. Built in 2020 and located in the Big Eddy, the Tum Tum is a net zero duplex.

“We had some impressively tall timbers on that project,” Sorensen said. “I think the posts are 24 feet tall, which is quite uncommon. In timber framing, often the posts are shorter and the beams are longer. In this case, our posts were longer than the actual beams for the house. So, you end up with this really tall cathedral-covered area on the outside.”

Established in 2018, along with co-owner Ashley Logan, Adaptive Homes Ltd. uses a design-build approach to craft quality built, sustainable homes. Large portions of each build – including everything from flooring systems to walls – are built in Adaptive Homes’ shop and assembled onsite. Once assembled, the modular pieces are taken to the build site by truck and moved into place using a crane. By building in parallel with on-site work like pouring the foundation, Sorensen said the build period is shortened by about four to eight months.

In addition to significantly reduced building times, Adaptive Homes Ltd. is also committed to sustainable building practices, using environmentally-friendly materials like wood fibre or paper-based cellulose insulation instead of foam, fibreglass or mineral fiber insulation.

It’s this commitment to sustainable business practices that resulted in Adaptive Homes Ltd. being the recipient of the Sustainable Business Excellence Award at the Revelstoke Chamber of Commerce’s 2023 Business Excellence Awards.

In a Q-and-A with the Mountaineer at Adaptive Homes Ltd., we were able to see the build process in

action and chat with Sorensen about the business’ commitment to sustainability.

Revelstoke Mountaineer: What advice would you give to employers or businesses looking to incorporate more sustainable practices into their business?

Jocoah Sorensen: The more people that are interested and understand the ‘why,’ the more they’re going to be an engaged team that’s fully backing you. That’s something we’ve really improved on over the years, really having the why built into it. We also educate our team along the way, so it’s not just one person holding all the knowledge.

RM: Do you see construction as a whole moving towards more sustainable practices, for example in terms of building materials used?

JS: I think that’s the direction we are heading, yeah. Around the world you can see these sustainable building practices being implemented. In fact, in Canada we are in many ways a few hundred years behind.

Over the last 20 years I've been in the industry the interest for sustainability, lowered living costs and longevity have consistently increased. Something we had to sell people on before we are approached for upfront now. We used to use foam. Now we use wood fiber, mineral wool or cellulose. This is a trend I expect will continue for the entire industry.

RM: Do you see offsite building becoming more of the norm?

JS: Absolutely. For us, it's been a no brainer. It really works well, in terms of being able to control the quality, budget and the timeline.

RM: What lessons have you learned so far in terms of running a business that is also focused on sustainability?

JS: It’s tricky, we’ve had to change our assemblies and the materials we used. Over the pandemic, lots of previously feasible materials just became too expensive so we had to pivot. It is hard at times when you need to make ends meet but you’re trying to stick to your values. We do a lot more upfront screening with the inquiries we receive to make sure they are value-aligned and understand the benefits provided by the level of construction we hold ourselves to.

Shelter

BC

Home Crane Day.

Photo by Adaptive Homes Ltd.

Tum Tum Net Zero Home Revelstoke, B.C.

Photo by Adaptive Homes Ltd.

Immerse yourself in Fernie’s breathtaking mountain backdrop as original tunes set the tone for an unforgettable experience!

pass!

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WHAT'S NEXT FOR MACKENZIE VILLAGE

MACKENZIE VILLAGE DEVELOPER DAVID EVANS CHATS THE LATEST FOR THE REVELSTOKE DEVELOPMENT.

By Lys Morton

Mackenzie Village is readying for local businesses to find a home in the retail spaces available in phase two and three, while looking forward to the completion of phase four. Elevator towers, utility groundwork and infill prep has already started in the latest development of the growing neighborhood in Revelstoke.

Local economic impact

Mackenzie Village’s developer David Evans told Revelstoke Mountaineer the whole site is a hub that’s providing over 200 jobs at the moment, as work throughout phase two, three and four continue along with the preparation for future road work and access trails. Some workers on site have relocated temporarily to the area, but Evans said company living allowances gives visiting workers a chance to explore Revelstoke’s amenities and businesses.

“That’s $35,000 to $40,000 a day during peak seasons that goes right back into the local economy

– the hotels, motels, bars, groceries and that sort,” Evans said.

Mackenzie Village has also provided job opportunities for those in town, with Evans estimating 40 per cent of the current workforce are local.

Residents of Mackenzie Village, whether there for ribbon cutting day or freshly moved in, are mixed in with numerous site workers who pour concrete for the phase four development or finish up wiring for the retail spaces available.

“Little Spoon, they’re moving in and getting excited to open,” Evans said during a tour of the latest updates at Mackenzie Village. “Ray of Sunshine Daycare, Jo (Joanne Gawler) is down there now working in the space to get that ready.”

Concerns were brought up during a Nov. 14 council meeting discussing the maximum retail space allowed within Mackenzie Village’s development, but Evans is sure Revelstoke’s current trajectory will mean more than enough interest for all stores and restaurants in town.

“Downtown is full. There’s such little space available for new businesses, for business growth. And those businesses downtown are staples, they have their reputation and fans. We’re providing space for others to join in.”

Locally affordable?

Mackenzie Village has been criticized for being priced outside of the budget of many locals, seeming to counter initial impressions that the area would include accessible housing.

Development in the area has not strayed from the 2016 rezoning and proposals, Paul Simon, Revelstoke’s senior planner told Revelstoke Mountaineer when asked to clarify project confusion. Simon joined Revelstoke staff after the 2016 rezoning, but he explained that previous documentation does still line up with the current development.

“For me as a planner, what I'm really concerned about is the actual bylaw that spells out the rules of what they can and cannot do within that zone and what restrictions are applied to them,” Simon said. Mackenzie Village was zoned within a comprehensive development zone, one of six in Revelstoke that allows variances such as whole units operating as short-term rentals.

Simon acknowledged that a Mackenzie style project might not get the same zoning and allowances in the near future, noting that staffing changes and new direction from city council since Mackenzie Village was approved has changed housing goals.

“There would definitely be a heavier lens of affordability applied to it and secured through legal

The welcome sign at Mackenzie Village. Photo by Mackenzie Village

Community patios and other outdoor amenities are a focus at Mackenzie Village. Photo by Mackenzie Village

Artists Hayley Stewart, Meghan Porach and Zuzana Riha with Alpine Echo Gallery are one of many local businesses moving into Mackenzie Village retail. Photo by Mackenzie Village

abilities and legal tools,” Simon said.

Evans explained the opportunities in Mackenzie allows for a longer term easing of the housing crunch in Revelstoke. He sees Mackenzie in part allowing for vacation home spaces for those seeking out Revelstoke for the winter or summer

According to Evans, the reality is those with extra financial resources are eyeing up Revelstoke’s plethora of outdoor activities and would prefer a place where they can come and go for the seasons and not worry about general property maintenance.

“We provide that option and they don’t use up housing in town that locals want to use, want to care for and keep up for that core heritage.”

A population boom mixed with rising visitor numbers again points to a reality where there’s more than enough resources to go around, Evans argued. Restaurants his family and friends have

come to love are facing increased wait times and demand, he claimed. Bringing more restaurants, shops and opportunities to the overall Revelstoke market will ease the overwhelm and keep guests coming back to all of Revelstoke for more.

Connecting Mackenzie to downtown

Concern that Mackenzie Village might add to the dividing of in-town from the resort had Evans eagerly explaining how the Camozzi Road trailhead development will help connect the newer areas of Revelstoke to its beloved downtown.

“Kids on skateboards, kids on bikes, moms and dads with strollers. That connectivity is going to be huge. It's going to change the, no pun intended, landscape here dramatically.”

It’s also a green space and recreational resource

he’s excited to see residents from Mackenzie Village and the rest of Revelstoke take advantage of. Whether using it to walk and bike downtown or coming up to enjoy the green spaces that will connect with the Revelstoke Cabot golf course under development.

With the Selkirks phase of development 64 per cent sold and a coworking space, art gallery, grocery store and more planning to move into the available retail spaces, the growth of Mackenzie Village as an added hub to the landscape of Revelstoke is Evans’s primary goal. He’s sure the development will contribute more to Revelstoke than some fear it might take away.

RENTAL FLEET SALE

One of the Mackenzie Village kitchen layouts. Photo by Mackenzie Village

One of the Mackenzie Village bathroom layouts. Photo by Mackenzie Village

One of the Mackenzie Village bedroom layouts. Photo by Mackenzie Village

STOKEDLIVING COMBINES REVELSTOKE VIBES WITH SUSTAINABLE LIVING

BY CENTERING HIGH ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND ECO-CONCIOUS DESIGNS, PARADIGM BUILDING SOLUTIONS IS CREATING A NEIGHBOURHOOD THAT FITS INTO REVELSTOKE’S LOVE OF NATURE.

By Hollie Ferguson

In many areas of Revelstoke housing, sustainability is on people’s minds. From gardening to renovating, creating more eco-conscious living spaces is a popular topic. Paradigm Building Solutions is leaning into this interest and excitement for all things earthy with their residential neighbourhood, Stokedliving.

“The vision was to build an energy efficient community with our specialized home kits, which are all high energy efficiency, filled with a lot of natural products which goes with the whole feel around Revelstoke,” Paradigm Building Solutions CEO Philipp Gruner told the Mountaineer.

The project is a mix of single-family detached homes and multi-family dwellings that Gruner said fit into the community’s “social acceptance of building something that's environmentally friendly and energy efficient.”

What does energy efficiency look like in terms of building? Well, Stokedliving is built to the highest energy standard available – step code five. This is an energy efficiency code, which Gruner explained is dictated by aspects like the type of insulation used, as well as building materials, such as what makes up the walls.

The home step code is a series of energy efficient regulations Gruner said have been mandated by the government of B.C. While different municipalities have adopted different step codes at various times, Gruner explained the province is shifting toward step code five and high energy efficiency home mandates.

“When we build our homes, we make sure that they're airtight,” he explained, pointing to the benefits of using energy efficient materials. “I always say, when you walk into a Paradigm home, you get that Paradigm feel.”

Another energy-friendly solution Paradigm Building Solutions is exploring for Stokeliving is solar power. While still in the early stages of development, Gruner said the long term goal is to add a solar package as part of the house.

Along with reducing energy prices, solar power could be beneficial as wildfires increase in frequency and severity due to human-caused climate change.

“We have this other problem with forest fires ripping through and going through power poles and power lines, and wouldn't it be nice if you had your own solar [power] system attached to a backup battery…that could power your home…until the power comes back on, as opposed to having a generator blasting emissions out the back door,” he said. “We just believe that solar is a natural fit with what the Paradigm and the Stokedliving story is: sustainability.”

Until solar power is fully integrated into homes in the neighbourhood, residents can still find some comfort in the already built-in wildfire protections with the build up of the wall panels.

The first level is a cement board, which Gruner describes as one of the most fire resistant products on the market. Next, the rigid exterior insulation is “wax-impregnated, hardwood fiberboard, which is also extremely fire resistant,” Gruner said. “It doesn't burn, it chars when you hold a torch to it.”

The next layer of insulation is a treated cellulose dense pack, which has “very little heat transfer.”

“If all of these layers start to fail, you always have the second and the third layer that will protect your home. A lot of our houses are built with FireSmart in mind.”

Outside of the home itself, the landscaping – which will become more robust with the completion of the neighbourhood – is also being designed to be resilient to wildfires, with few needle-trees being planted.

The neighbourhood also offers what Gruner called a “community within a community.” This can be seen in the unified building approach, with home designs and activities focused on that mountain living lifestyle.

“A lot of people in Revelstoke are outdoorsy, biking, hiking, golfing, you name it. We just believe that the product and the offering at Stokedliving is that lifestyle that people in Revelstoke are looking for.”

The neighbourhood is being built in phases, with a next round of townhouses up for release next.

“As we build out the different phases of the project, there will be a combination of for sale units, and then a for rent component as well,” Gruner said.

For those interested in chatting about a new build, Gruner said the process is easy for would-be homebuyers.

“We have lots of different housing plans ready to go,” he said. “If there's something that people liked, they can pick it and then we'll build it… the installation is extremely fast.”

An area of a Stokedliving neighbourhood home. Photo by Paradigm Building Solutions

The Wolverine. Photo by Paradigm Building Solutions

REFRAMED CONSTRUCTION BRINGS WOMEN INTO BUILDING

THE WOMEN-LED CONSTRUCTION COMPANY IS BRINGING HOME RENOVATION PROJECTS TO LIFE.

By Lys Morton

ReFramed Construction is providing Revelstoke with renovations that can make any house a home, while giving women a space in the local construction community.

Founded by Elisa Gilbert after pivoting away from her personal tiny home project, she said a business wasn’t the first idea, but was an easy fit.

“I started a business because I saw the opportunity in this town,” she recalled.

Opportunity for growth also came quickly. In a year, Gilbert has grown the team to over five staff and frequently fields contacts from other women wanting to join.

“For a town that is craving for employees, it’s quite impressive,” she said.

While she may not have initially intended for ReFramed to be a place where women could grow their construction skills, Gilbert’s place in a maledominated industry was on her mind right from the start.

“Our company name, I’m reframing who can work in these spaces, who is leading a project,” Gilbert said. “I hate to say it, but if a man and I are on the same worksite, wearing all the same gear and have the same level of expertise, people are going to expect him to be in charge.”

A childhood of being encouraged to help her father, who worked through countless projects, set a foundation for Gilbert, giving her the confidence to know she belongs in those spaces. Her beloved tiny home became a place to hone skills and create a portfolio.

“That was my first project, that's where I found out that I really enjoyed building,” Gilbert said.

Starting off with just a drill and a skillsaw, Gilbert used online tutorials and phone calls with her dad to learn the details of some projects she wasn’t sure of. While the tiny home project didn’t work out due to external factors such as zoning requirements, she’s still certain the project laid the groundwork for ReFramed.

Now, Gilbert is leading a team that’s able to make various houses in Revelstoke feel more like home for their owners, even if sometimes folks defer to her input.

“I’ll be talking with the customer in those early meetings, asking them what they want out of the project, and so many times someone will go, ‘what do you think will look good?’ But it’s not my home! I can give advice, put my own touch on the project. But this is your home. I want to make sure you love your home.”

ReFramed’s Instragam shows off bathroom tiling projects, basement upgrades, kitchen backsplash refurbishment and more. The carpentry that was a corner piece in her tiny home dream has been a staple in ReFramed's projects and Gilbert’s own curiosity.

“You can do so many things with wood. You can transform it in so many ways. To be able to play with it is fantastic.”

Gilbert is considering her builders license in the near future, but she’s willing to let ReFramed grow organically and meet the challenges with growth. Largely using word of mouth and community inquiries into what projects ReFramed can manage, Gilbert is growing a portfolio of stylistic projects that showcase a repertoire of what the ReFramed team can bring to each and every project. She hasn’t had to say no to many projects, and Gilbert is excited to see what comes next for ReFramed.

“It’s just going to keep evolving on its own. This has all come somewhat very naturally so far.”

Elisa Gilbert, founder of ReFramed Construction.

Photo by ReFramed Construction

Installing new siding is one of the various projects ReFramed Construction has taken on. Photo by ReFramed Construction

UPGRADE YOUR HOME WITHOUT SACRIFICING ITS HISTORY

‘YOU'RE GONNA GET IMPROVEMENT NO MATTER WHAT YOU DO ON A LOT OF THESE OLDER HOMES,’ LOCAL CONTRACTOR TEAGAN MILANEY SAYS.

By Hollie Ferguson

Maintaining Revelstoke’s heritage homes is vital to blending the city’s past with its present, creating a seamless connection between then and now. But valuing history shouldn’t mean forfeiting the technological benefits of today. One Revelstoke couple learned that upholding history and creating a more ecoconscious, sustainable home can go hand-in-hand.

Jessica and Teagan Milaney live in a four bedroom house about two blocks from Revelstoke’s downtown core. They recently went through the process of updating their home, while preserving its heritage.

“We know that the community of Revelstoke values the heritage homes within our downtown core, as well as equally valuing sustainability and taking positive steps towards caring for our planet,” Jessica told the Mountaineer. “With this in mind, my husband and I set out to complete an exterior renovation which would seamlessly blend the rich history of heritage homes with cutting-edge energy efficiency.”

As the owner of Parallel Vision Contracting, Teagan’s team helped the couple come up with a plan to execute their idea.

“The primary goal was not only to restore the home's timeless elegance, but also to elevate its functionality to exceed the current B.C. building code, setting a new standard for heritage home sustainability,” Jessica explained.

The goal of striking a “delicate balance between honouring the past and embracing the future” was achieved with various upgrades according to Jessica, from “upgraded insulation and energy-efficient windows to a cutting-edge HVAC system.”

“Every aspect of the renovation was carefully thought out to maximize energy performance without compromising the home's authentic character,” she said.

Originally built in 1901, the home had an older vinyl siding when the Milaney’s bought it. The mudroom was not incredibly functional being tiny and poorly insulated. With three kids, lots of ski gear and boots, this was where Teagan said they began their project.

“It was kind of an organic and evolving thing…we wanted to start it off and said, ‘Well let’s add a mudroom and a wraparound porch.”

Adding a porch turned into redoing the siding, which turned into upgrading the windows, which led to adding exterior insulation.

“So it really did take on a bit of a life of its own,” Teagan said.

But staying true to the home’s heritage was important for the Milaney’s, having been drawn to the history when first visiting Revelstoke.

“One of the things that attracted us to Revelstoke in the first place was the history and the character of the town,” Teagan recalled. “When we were moving here, we definitely loved the downtown core, the aesthetic of the homes, the feel of the old houses.”

But Teagan’s proximity to new technology and techniques for making homes quieter, more comfortable and with better air quality inspired them to combine the old with the new.

“We wanted to have the benefits of a modern home, but still the aesthetic and the feel of the heritage home.”

To do that, they did a deep energy retrofit. This included cutting the eaves of the house off and incorporating a whole new air and thermal barrier and triplepane windows.

“So we were able to bring in increased insulation, making the home much more airtight,” Teagan explained. “With those two things, we actually were able to cut more than half our home’s energy use.”

To keep the Revelstoke feel in their home, they made sure to incorporate cedar and Douglas fir elements, both inside and outside the house. Still, the house has some modern flair with a metal siding in their board-and-batten style, which

Teagan said is a traditional look, mixed with a resilient material that will stand up to the test of time.

Taking around five or six months, the Milaney’s went full steam ahead, but to make it more affordable, others with interest in updating their homes can make changes incrementally. For example, replacing windows or improving a house's air barrier can help with energy efficiency. In addition to taking things one step at a time, BC Hydro and the provincial government offer a number of rebates for energy efficiency upgrades.

Additionally, the City of Revelstoke mandates homes within the Revelstoke Station Heritage Conservation Area apply for additional permit requirements, so homes within that boundary will require a few more steps than the Milaney’s, whose home lies just outside that district.

“You're gonna get improvement no matter what you do on a lot of these older homes,” Teagan said. To get started, he advised talking with a contractor and doing a pre-project energy assessment to get a feel for how your home uses energy prior to any improvements.

“The energy advisor will plug in all the information on your home, things like quality of windows, the amount of insulation, the types of heating systems that you're using, and when all that information is punched in, it will give you an EnerGuide rating,” Teagan explained.

A typical new home is rated at 99 gigajoules a year. In the Milaney’s preassement, their house was rated at 132 gigajoules per year. When all was said and done, they had a rating of 64 gigajoules per year, more than a half reduction.

This decrease in energy bills was huge for the Milaney’s, but Teagan said he really sees the value in the quality of life they now have, being so close to downtown.

“There's obviously traffic and sometimes late night noise and trains and all kinds of things, but the house is so much more quiet and comfortable, wherever you are.”

In the end, it will also boost the value of your home, Teagan said.

“I think more and more people are going to be looking for things like EnerGuide rating, and the insulation value of a home as something that is a strong consideration when they're buying a property.”

All in all, the Teagan’s home now runs more efficiently, and they feel good about not sacrificing their dreams of an aesthetic, heritage style home that reflects Revelstoke. They also feel confident their abode will stand the test of time thanks to the upgrades.

“I feel like the improvements that we've done now make this house perform better than your typical modern house,” Teagan said. “We went so far beyond the kind of the standard of even today that this house I feel, is good for the next 100-123 years.”

The Milaney's home in Revelstoke. Photo by Jessica Amelia Photography

INTERIOR DESIGN 101

WHETHER THROUGH WORKING WITH A PROFESSIONAL OR

DESIGNING A UNIQUE SPACE YOURSELF, HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO HELP YOU ELEVATE YOUR HOME.

By Hollie Ferguson

When it comes to designing interiors for Revelstokians, representing the unique interests and needs for locals is vital according to Heidi Hopkins, owner of Hopkins Interior Design.

The active lifestyles of those who live in Revelstoke, as well as the amount of time residents spend in town both have an impact on how they design a space.

“There are two types of Revelstoke residents we can look at - long term local homeowners and those who buy homes or condos as an investment property,” Hopkins told the Mountaineer. “Those who live here long term tend to gravitate towards design that suits their active lifestyle and busy families.”

These residents tend to seek spaces that are “useful, practical and can stand the test of time.”

“I would say this is where many of the conversations start, we then work with them to curate these requirements with a design aesthetic that is as beautiful as it is functional. These elements can coexist!”

Though creating something “trendy” is not necessarily the goal, there are a few trends that bring Hopkins joy to see.

“I am happy to see more designers lean away from safe, neutral tones and embrace designs that are romantic and nostalgic.”

The elements that create the unique looks Hopkins strives for include bold colours, textures and patterns that both contrast and compliment at the same time.

“Bolder dark colours and jewel tones add depth and richness to spaces, whether it’s through paint, fabrics or in a collection of ceramics. Lighter wood tones like white oak are being replaced or accented with dark wood tones.”

Additionally, Hopkins said floral patterns and uncommon colour schemes can encourage strong emotions and inspiration.

“Previously, I feel designers and clients would air on the side of caution,” she said. “Now I feel there is an openness to celebrate the pleasure of these colours and patterns, rather than worry about how fleeting they may be.”

Don’t have a large space? Not to worry. Even things as small as a bold lamp, vase or accent pillow can elevate an area’s look and help test the waters for larger projects.

Rather than leaning into trends, the goal for Hopkins is to focus on “intentional design.”

While under her guidance, clients set out a basic foundation to achieve a look they will love. For those interested in their own home design, these tactics can also be used when envisioning a space for yourself.

Designing your own space

For Hopkins, one of the most important things is to identify your needs and preferences, and set a goal for the space.

“These objectives may include creating a welcoming atmosphere, maximizing space efficiency, promoting productivity or fostering relaxation.”

Whatever use any specific space is slated to provide, Hopkins said paying attention to details goes a long way.

“We think of all elements that contribute to the feeling, emotion and energy a person feels when they walk into a room,” she explained. “Incorporating elements that reflect the personality and preferences

of the occupants adds a personal touch to the design. This could include artwork, family heirlooms or custom-made furniture pieces.”

This personalization, in tandem with setting an area up for longevity and functionality can provide long-lasting joy in your space. But creating a room design that will stand the test of time also requires “mindful material selection,” Hopkins said.

“Choosing materials that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable, sustainable and appropriate for the intended use of the space is crucial. Our favourite way to do this is through the use of antiques or custom pieces.”

Finally, one way to ensure your space will continue to serve your household for years to come is to look ahead and be mindful of what the future may bring.

“Anticipating future needs… allows for design solutions that can adapt over time,” Hopkins said. “Whether it's accommodating growth in a family or incorporating technology advancements, a welldesigned space should be flexible and future-proof.”

Bold walls and neutral accents help small areas stand out. Photo submitted by Heidi Hopkins

A kitchen designed by Heidi Hopkins. Photo submitted by Heidi Hopkins

One of the projects Hopkins Interiors designed for Mackenzie Village. Photo submitted by Heidi Hopkins

YARDS AND GARDENS IN REVELSTOKE

LOCALS ARE SEEKING LOWMAINTENANCE LANDSCAPING AND SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS.

By Hollie Ferguson

Revelstoke is known for a lot of things – its proximity to nature, popularity among world renowned powderhounds and its unique climate as the world’s only temperate Interior rainforest, with its towering Western hemlock and red cedar.

Still, the region is not immune to the impacts of human-caused climate change, and dry spells are becoming more frequent. For many, designing yards and gardens around this is a challenge, but for Mackenzie Watt, owner of Bloomworks Gardening it's a career.

After studying horticulture and landscape design, Watt moved to Revelstoke in 2017. Bloomworks Gardening does site design, landscaping plans, installation, irrigation and landscape maintenance.

In her years of working in yards around Revelstoke, Watt is seeing a few key shifts in what locals are looking for in their outside spaces. One of the most commonly asked for being an elegant, low-maintenance look.

“We are an active community, people are in and out of town, and we have a lot of rental properties,” she said. “Not everyone has the time to tend to all the weeding and pruning that gardens can require. A lot of people want to keep things simple, while still having that special place to come home to and relax.”

Low-maintenance landscaping

Careful not to spill all her secrets, Watt shared a few simple techniques for keeping your space easy-to-please. This includes “applying four inches of bark mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds — weed fabric is overrated,” she said.

Options for low-maintenance lawns include alternatives to grass that don’t require mowing, such as micro clover lawns, and dripline irrigation, which can operate on a timer.

“More people are seeking lawn alternatives such as bee turf and wildflower meadows,” she noted, which have the added benefits of being native species that don’t require additional watering.

Something else Watt is seeing grow in popularity is an interest in droughttolerant plants and gardens that fit into the surrounding landscape seamlessly.

“Being in a rainforest we can grow so many amazing plants, but we also face long periods of dry spells.”

Pollinator gardens and rewilding

Sustainability efforts and invasive pest management are also playing a key role in how locals are designing their yards.

The European chafer beetle in particular is a species Watt credits with damage to crops and lawns around town. The clover lawns she mentioned for a lower maintenance yard alternative also keep the beetles at bay, since they don’t feed on it.

Those seeking to build more sustainable spaces are opting for landscapes that go beyond aesthetics. There is a budding excitement and interest in substituting the typical with the sustainable, according to Watt.

“Pollinator gardens are a big topic these days as well as native plants that don’t require supplemental water, pesticides and fertilizers,” she said.

While many of her clients are already knowledgeable and come to her with sustainability requests, she shared a few tips on how to make your space more eco-friendly including adding compost to garden beds instead of chemical fertilizer, incorporating native plants and letting things be a little more wild.

People are also responding to the increase in wildfires that threaten Interior B.C. by creating FireSmart landscapes, Watt explained. This includes having low-density planting, avoiding bark mulch near homes and planting fire resistant shrubs and trees.

Importantly, Watt feels everyone can have a connection to their outdoor area, regardless of their space.

“It doesn't really matter how big of an area you're working with, it's good… to have some sort of symbiotic relationship with what's going on in your garden.”

TOURISM TALKS

UNWELCOME VISITORS

As spring has now begun, we bet you’ve been looking at starting seeds for your garden! Did you know that some seed packets and some garden plants sold in stores are invasive species? For example, wildflower mixes are often filled with unwelcome visitors such as Baby’s Breath and English Ivy is sold as a garden ornamental plant when it’s invasive These species spread rapidly and can have severe impacts on our environment here in Revelstoke We’ve teamed up with the Columbia Shuswap Invasive Species Society (CSISS) to make sure you don’t contribute to biodiversity loss

CSISS is your local go-to when you need information on invasive species They operate invasive species management programs and educate the community about invasive species and their impacts

Check out the ‘Grow Me Instead’ booklet which snapshots 28 of BC’s most unwanted plants and their recommended alternatives This will ensure your garden is filled with welcome guests!

Unfortunately, invasive species exist outside of our garden too We encourage you to Play Clean Go when you get out on the trails This means checking and cleaning your gear and pets of seeds before leaving an area The same applies for Clean Drain Dry on the water Check your boating equipment, drain all the water, and get them crispy dry before changing to a new body of water.

To

Photo | Shoal Raymond @shoalraymond

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