The Nest: An Off-Grid Retreat in British Columbia
Perched on the highest point of British Columbia's Keats Island is The Nest, a stunning off-grid retreat that balances sustainability with bold architecture.
Designed by Vancouver-based Daria Sheina Studio, this prefabricated cabin feels like a modern sculpture dropped in the middle of a moss-covered forest. But don't let its sleek lines fool you. This structure runs entirely off the grid and was installed in just two days after arriving by truck, barge and helicopter.
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During early design discussions, Daria Sheina skimmed past a rough sketch of two rotated cuboid volumes, thinking it wasn't fully developed. But her clients, Sean Sikorski and Chadd Andre, immediately paused on it, drawn to its bold simplicity. Their reaction sparked what would become the defining form of The Nest — two interlocked geometric shapes, rotated and stacked like modern building blocks carved out of wood.
The Nest was carefully designed for the rugged terrain of Keats Island. With no road access, every construction decision had to account for tricky logistics. In collaboration with BC Passive House, the components were prefabricated to exact weights and dimensions.
Once on site, a helicopter airlifted them to the build location like a life-sized puzzle coming together midair. Inside, the three-story structure opens up with a minimalist design. Exposed wood, green Marmoleum floors and large sliding doors keep the space connected to nature. The cabin includes an open-concept first floor with a living area, kitchen and bathroom, while the upper levels house cozy bedrooms.
Everything about The Nest speaks to sustainable living. Solar panels power the home. A rainwater collection and filtration system supplies drinking water. There's even an incinerating toilet to handle waste. Its foundation minimizes environmental impact by reducing the need for concrete, and its Western red cedar exterior will age naturally into the forest surroundings.
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The name The Nest was chosen for the sense of shelter, intimacy and belonging it conveys, themes that guided both the architecture and the experience. Rather than a sprawling footprint, the design centers around circular movement, thoughtful flow and a deep connection to place. Inside, expansive glass frames moss-covered trees and sweeping views of Howe Sound, creating the feeling that the entire island is yours.
Whether you dream of an off-grid lifestyle or just love good design, The Nest shows what's possible when creativity meets eco-conscious building. It's not just about remote living. It's about living better with less footprint and more intention. Prefabrication, smart logistics and sustainable systems make this model repeatable in other locations.
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The Nest proves that off-grid doesn't mean off-limits when it comes to comfort, beauty or sustainability. With a compact footprint and low environmental impact, this cabin offers a luxury escape without leaving a heavy mark. It's a case study in how thoughtful design can rise to meet even the wildest of settings.
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