Zen Forest
A Japanese-inspired laneway home shaped through nature, serenity, and thoughtful small-scale design.
A 2025 HAVAN Awards finalist for Best New Small-Scale Home, Zen Forest blends Japanese-inspired design with layered spatial planning, natural materials, and careful site stewardship - creating a tranquil, compact home for a young couple living beside their main residence.
Story
Discover how thoughtful levels, natural materials, and serene Japanese influences shaped a compact laneway home rooted in nature and quiet living
Built
2024
Size
1100
Beds
2
Baths
2
Zen Forest was crafted for a young couple seeking a tranquil, Japanese-inspired home within their treed backyard. Navigating a protected koi pond, mature trees, and laneway right-of-way constraints, the design uses warm materials, level changes, and natural light to create surprising spaciousness within 1,100 square feet.
Key Features
- 2025 HAVAN Awards finalist for Best New Small-Scale Home
- Layered split-level layout that maximizes volume and function within a compact footprint
- 20-ft ceiling and large French doors that bring in abundant natural light
- Japanese-influenced interiors, including separate toilet and shower rooms
- Full kitchen with striking honeycomb tile transition and full-size appliances
- Energy-efficient comfort through a ductless heat pump and HRV
- Nature-led materials: cedar soffits, cedar siding accents, dark wood floors, green cabinetry, gold fixtures
- Two-tone exterior blending white toward the main house and dark green toward the laneway
- Careful site stewardship, protecting mature trees and the koi pond throughout construction