Casita Garden Office

A complete transformation of a deteriorated detached auxiliary structure in Saanich into a functional garden office. The original building suffered from water damage, dry rot, and structural settling with inadequate headroom and cramped spaces.

The redesign started with the fundamentals: new footings and a leveled existing pad using topping coat and floor leveler, waterproofed with Xypex for durability. Ceiling heights were brought to a full 8 feet for improved spatial perception.

The exterior received a complete overhaul — a new metal roof with matching gutters and downspouts, cedar mill cementitious plank siding, and a 9-by-9-foot double door with sidelights and transom to flood the interior with natural light. Two frosted fixed glass windows and a custom sliding barn door with concealed hardware completed the envelope.

Inside, the space was fitted with luxury vinyl plank flooring, a full bathroom with walk-in shower and tiled surfaces, and a wet bar with concealed cabinetry. The workspace includes a wraparound desk, central chandelier pendant lighting, and wall plugs throughout. A futon provides a place to take breaks.

Comfort systems were fully addressed: insulation and vapor barriers throughout, a heat pump HVAC system, bathroom ventilation, and provisions for hot water tank and landscape irrigation controllers. Soffit lights and weather-sealed exterior receptacles handle the outside.

The project involved coordination with Oceanwest Tree Service for site preparation, Maplewood Electrical for electrical work, and Solthis Contracting for material sourcing — the kind of local partnerships that keep Victoria's trades working together.