Nestled in the stunning alpine landscape of Whistler, Canada, this contemporary family retreat reinterprets Nordic-inspired living with modern elegance. Designed by Burgers Architecture, this vacation home in British Columbia reflects the homeowners’ shared love for skiing, outdoor adventures, and family connection.
The result is a thoughtfully designed, multi-generational home that combines expansive mountain views, open-plan living, and cozy retreats — creating the perfect place for year-round gatherings.
Building a home for multiple generations comes with unique challenges. “The challenge of balancing privacy, shared spaces, and different lifestyles was creatively stimulating,” says Cedric Burgers, Principal Architect at Burgers Architecture. With more than 370 sq. m, this house can accommodate large groups of 16+, while maintaining a sense of calm.
Private quarters on the lower floor balance shared spaces on the upper level, where open living areas take full advantage of panoramic mountain views. The four master suites for parents and adult children, two bunk rooms for grandchildren, and adaptable spaces meet the evolving-family needs while ensuring comfort and independence for everyone.
The home’s design seamlessly merges West Coast modernism with Nordic simplicity through the use of natural materials like locally sourced basalt and hemlock. The architects aimed to balance minimalist elegance with warmth, combining organic textures with sleek, modern lines.
The structural steel frames, essential for supporting heavy snow loads, introduce a rhythmic architectural pattern that defines the interior’s character. Expansive glazing and soaring ceilings invite abundant natural light, framing panoramic views of the surrounding peaks while showcasing the changing seasons in the alpine landscape.
Warm communal spaces transition effortlessly into intimate retreats, creating a home that feels both expansive and inviting. Despite differing ideas about the ideal home, the family shared a common love for clean, modern lines and practical design.
A large, covered deck extends the living space outdoors, offering a peaceful escape with stunning mountain views. With its thoughtful layout, resilient materials, and timeless aesthetic, this multi-generational retreat was designed to evolve with the family — creating a lasting sanctuary where cherished memories can be made for years to come.
>>> Also discover Cabins and Homes in the Snow, by Olson Kundig Architects
Location: Whistler, Canada
Architect: Burgers Architecture
Consultants
Structural: CA Boom Structural Engineering
Mechanical: Ecolighten Energy Solutions
Landscape: Swordfern Landscape Design
Geotechnics: Terrane Geotechnical Group
Furniture and Styling: Leanne Leon of E2 Homes
Kitchen Appliances: Miele
Photography by Ema Peter Photography, courtesy of Burgers Architecture