In the summer of 2004, SOS Design opened the door to its new “storefront” office in Vic West, demonstrating a commitment to responsible design by incorporating many green building techniques.

This particular project faced restrictions relating to small lot subdivision. Therefore, every effort was made to create a feeling of spaciousness, enhanced by an abundance of natural light within a very small building envelope.

By blasting rock on the site, we were able to create an 800 square foot office space which is entered at street level, keeping the private entrance tucked away at the back of the house, one level up. To help offset our small lot, we developed a roof deck which has views over the harbour to the Olympic Mountains beyond.

Selection of Materials

• majority of products and materials come from local suppliers and manufacturers (within 5 km)
• fir for doors, windows & floors sourced from Vancouver Island
• formaldehyde-free insulation
• low VOC paint and floor finishes
• wool carpet (area rugs)
• low flow fixtures
• high efficiency washer/dryer (cold water intake only)
• high efficiency dishwasher (cold water intake only, passive drying system)
• super-insulated fiberglass hot water cylinder (Marathon)
• recycled glass tiles
• lighting- all fixtures are low voltage (Halogen) or compact fluorescent
• reclaimed timber for stair treads
• engineered lumber (PSL beams, I-joists)
• recycled plastic decking material from local manufacturer