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Swanwick Ranch by Marko Simsic Architect

By Eric Meunier

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Vancouver-based studio Marko Simsic Architect has designed the Swanwick Ranch, a contemporary home located in Metchosin in Greater Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.

Completed in 2006 and built by Anderson Cove Construction, the 8,300 square foot, eight bedroom, eight bathroom residence sits on a 67 acre lot with over 1,400 feet of low-bank oceanfront.

Swanwick Ranch Broker’s description:

“Swanwick Ranch is considered one of the finest luxury oceanfront estates in Canada; a residence that has been featured in professional architectural and design publications around the globe. It is a masterpiece of contemporary architecture that has received national architecture acclaim for design. Custom designed for it’s current owners, the residence is a perfect retreat for families seeking a refuge from the pulse of modern life. It is situated on a majestic 68-acre gently sloping oceanfront property in the rural community of Metchosin, British Columbia with over 1,400 feet of low-bank oceanfront.

The architectural vision was to connect with the site; to take advantage of the beautiful views to Victoria and Mount Baker, to weave through the large stand of rare Garry Oaks; and to provide accessibility to the beach. The residence at Swanwick Ranch exemplifies the finest achievement in modern technology and environmental design. A home of this magnitude is at the very edge of what is possible in terms of technology and structural design, yet it’s construction respects and integrates gracefully and respectfully into the property’s natural landscape.

One cannot fully appreciate the essence of this spectacular home without understanding its central feature – the Canyon River. Carrying spent ocean water back to the sea, the Canyon River adds drama and inspiration while performing an important function as part of the hydrothermal radiant energy that provides heating and cooling to the residence. Soaring etched-glass walls with inset lighting and cascading waterfalls are a continual source of inspiration and quiet reflection, and while particularly stunning at night, the flowing water provides a soothing watery light to the residence during the day.

One of the social aspects of the design of the home is the ability to interact between spaces quite readily, such that even though the home is very large there are opportunities via balconies and bridges and interconnected spaces to have moments of conversation or eye contact across very large distances, which bring occupants the feeling of being close together even though each may be in their own retreat space.

The mechanical and electrical systems are cutting edge, allowing owners the ability to access and monitor all of the home’s technologies via the Internet from anywhere on the globe. The heating and electrical systems can function independently from the civic utility services on the property, thus allowing independence and full off-grid capability for owners.

Recreational amenities abound at Swanwick Ranch including a covered swimming pool; hot tub; professional tennis court with night lighting; as well as large games and entertainment rooms. The home also features an enclosed boathouse and fishing craft with direct access into the ocean.

There is ample guest accommodation as well as a separate caretaker’s residence and fully equipped workshop with an auto-servicing bay for car enthusiasts.”

Photos courtesy of SothebysRealty

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About Eric Meunier

Currently the Owner and Chief Executive of HODYO Design, Eric Meunier's expertise in the design industry spreads over 20 years. He was the driving force behind HomeDSGN's early success, founding this website in 2011. Today, he loves to channel his passion for design into remodeling houses and transforming interior spaces with his keen eye for detail and architectural finesse. Learn more about HomeDSGN's Editorial Process.

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