Journal
2022.12. | Happy Holidays from the BHC team!
This past year has been a dream come true in our neck of the woods!
As we wrap up the last weeks of 2022 we're looking back at the milestones that marked our busiest year yet.
We expanded our fabrication capacity, from one facility in BC to three across the country.
We grew again as we added new team members to our tight-knit crew.
We planted over 1000 trees as part of our 150 Trees initiative with the help of Forest Recovery Canada.
We gave each other high fives as our freshly-launched System S sauna grew quickly in popularity and kept our team on their toes through a busy Fall season.
We shipped Systems out to dream destinations across North America and watched them come to life - in our own backyard here in the PNW, or further afield in California, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, Minnesota, New York, and beyond.
We're grateful to have the support and encouragement of our cabin-loving community, and thrilled to share in your enthusiasm for the cabin life.
To mark the season, we're sharing a few digital goodies to help you enjoy the holiday season, BHC-Style:
Whether you're gathering this season at home or your cabin, we have the perfect music to set the mood. Enjoy the latest Winter edition in our BHC playlist collection - a thoughtfully curated selection of acoustic covers that are perfect to enjoy by the fireside with family and friends.
Time on your hands over your winter break? Dig in to the BHC Project Handbook and start shaping your cabin dreams. This digital resource will help walk you through the steps of planning your project.
Thank you for joining us this year. Wishing you all the best as you head into your holiday season. Stay safe, stay cozy, and we'll see you in 2023!
Please note that our office is closed December 23, 2022 - January 2, 2023 to give our team a well-deserved break. We will respond to your messages and calls in the new year.
2022.11.24 | Begin planning your dream cabin this winter!
Building with a prefabricated system helps your dream cabin project come together efficiently - saving you time, money, and the stress of uncertainty. Once your kit-of-parts arrives on site the exterior shell comes to life in weeks, rather than months. The key to enjoying a streamlined building experience lies in proper planning when it comes to assembling your team, securing permits, and preparing your site.
To help you in planning, we've gathered relevant Resources in one new section on our website to support you as you begin.
We invite you to explore:
Explore the new BHC Project Handbook - Part I
Part I of the BHC Project Handbook is designed to offer support for those in the early stages of planning a BHC System build, primarily for the larger System 01 and 02 kits. It's designed specifically for use by the DIY Homeowner - Builder.
Inside, you'll find guidance on a number of critical points including:
Outlining your vision
How the BHC Process works in action
Financial planning and budgeting tools
Site selection considerations
Information about the System layouts
Compliance and feasibility considerations
Identifying key roles and contacts
Understanding timelines
Parts II and III of the Handbook are available to clients in active planning and building phases.
Check out our newly updated System catalogues!
Review System Pricing
Watch how our Systems come together in the Video Library
We've gathered our recent videos to help you understand assembly, our origins, the fabrication process, and more. Explore the Video Library for a peek at how it all comes together.
The most recent video captures the dramatic build of this System 02 sited on a small island in BC's majestic Howe Sound:
2022.09.13 | Get yours for 2023: time to order System S + 00!
Dreaming of your own System S sauna or System 00 A-Frame cabin? We craft our prefab kits over the winter for early 2023 deliveries. To guarantee yours, it's time to get your order in!
The deadline to complete your System 00 or System S order is coming up soon. Secure your System by placing a $2500 Fabrication Reservation deposit ASAP. To complete your purchase, 75% of the total purchase price is due by October 31st, and the remaining 25% payable at the time of shipment.
The System S Sauna
This System S sauna was recently installed in the Pemberton Valley, British Columbia, sited quietly in the woods behind a private residence.
System S arrives on site ready-to-install, so it just needs to be settled into a prepared location, plugged in, and it's good to go! For simple answers to frequently asked questions about System S, please visit our FAQ.
System 00 Cabin
This System 00 cabin was installed in Lake Arrowhead, California. The client added their own decking and interior finishings.
Designed to be self-assembled, System 00 is a dream DIY project. With a small team of 4-5 capable people this project can be built from start to finish in under a week. It requires no heavy machinery, and comes with a step-by-step assembly guide.
For simple answers to frequently asked questions about System 00, please visit our FAQ.
2022.08.25 | System 02 BC Gulf Islands Build
Summer is the busiest season for cabin building in most climates in North America, and we always love to see behind-the-scenes moments from building teams out in the field.
This System 02 was recently assembled on one of BC's beautiful Gulf Coast islands. The 3 module + deck kit with layout F features a 2/3 glazing wall and spectacular site placement.
The project kicked off with a dramatic delivery by helicopter, and was built by Blue Water Concepts. Take a sneak peek from the delivery and shell assembly phase earlier this summer.
Photo: Russell Dalby
This project features:
System 02 | 3 Module + Deck | F Plan
Two-storey 18.5' x 10' modules
Floor plan F
2 Bedroom / 2 Bathroom
Gross Built Area: 1205 sq ft
Building Footprint: 779 sq ft
Net Usable Area: 998 sq ft
Deck Area: 174 sq ft
System 02 is the most adaptable kit, with options for master bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms. View the catalogue to see some of our most popular configurations, and our pricing list:
System 02 | 3 Module + Deck | F Layout
System 02 is crafted to have a minimal environmental impact on the site. Interior space is designed to be flexibly modular - with a range of efficient floor plans and flex bay options, it can accommodate families or groups. The structural system is comprised of a sustainably harvested engineered glulam timber frame, clad with prefabricated insulated wall, roof, and floor panels.
The System 02 kit is designed to be built with the support of a professional contractor. A team of experienced builders can assemble the standard three-module shell system in approximately two to four weeks.
2022.06.30 | Summer Essentials
Summer is officially here! Depending on where you live it may feel like it began a while ago, but here in the PNW it's finally taking off and we couldn't be more stoked.
We're currently in the middle of a busy summer build season, with kits being shipped, delivered, and built in dream locations across North America. Stay tuned for more on what's being built.
Wherever you find your summer adventures, we want you to have a great time. Our team has gathered a few of our favourite summer essentials - goods made by great people and interesting brands that we think help make any cabin stay or backcountry adventure one to remember. If you're interested in any, click through to explore! We're only offering these items to share and bring attention to things that our team loves - we don't sell them or profit from them.
We're also sharing the second seasonal summer playlist from our Co-Founder Michael. He has a great time pulling together these playlists, and we invite you to listen and share!
Want us to see what you're up to this summer? Tag @thebackcountryhutcompany on Instagram! Carry on, and have fun.
Summer Essentials for Cabin Lovers...
Clockwise, from top left:
Need to chop some firewood? We love the timeless character and rugged sensibility of these heirloom-quality hand-forged and limited-edition 1912 Blackhawk Axes by PNW-based Timothy Dyck.
Setting the mood at the cabin, or stocking up on emergency illumination? MADERA's iconic campfire-scented Cedar + Smoke soy candles are handmade in Vancouver by a member of the BHC team!
Kicking back with some time to read? Check out Escapology, from the Canadian interior design duo Colin and Justin, featuring stunning cottages, cabins, and getaways!
Staying warm around the campfire or decorating your cabin? Norquay's Canadian Shield merino wool blanket is lightweight and stylish, with a nod to tradition.
Responsible campsite. backcountry, and beach fires start with knowledge and proper precautions. We like the flat-folding Pack & Carry L Fireplace from Snowpeaks for safe fires, when local conditions permit.
Wherever your advetures take you, it's best to be prepared. VSSL's Camp Supplies kit packs a lot of utility in a small package - including a wire saw, adventure tape, a whistle, a flashlight, and even a fire striker kit.
Summer 2022 Playlist
Take a listen to the latest BHC playlist, curated by Michael, inspired by summer adventures.
2022.05.25 | Get the Kit. Build Your Hut.
Build your System 01 or 02 in 2023
Systems 01 and 02 are crafted by our team and shipped directly from one of our three fabrication centres across North America. Each take about nine to twelve months to plan and three months to craft.
Once your System arrives on site, the exterior shell comes to life in weeks, rather than months. The key to a streamlined experience is in proper planning when it comes to assembling your team, securing permits, and preparing your site.
The BHC Process outlines best practices and offers guidance to support you in planning.
Wondering where to begin?
Outline your vision.
What do you envision on your site? Where is the site? What size hut will best accommodate you, and how will you enjoy your space? Gather all your ideas, and any inspiration. You’ll find some inspiration on our Pinterest board.Collect your documents.
Work through our simple BHC Process to ensure you have all the materials needed to get started, from your financial plan to zoning applications, and everything in between.Schedule a Consultation.
When you are ready to take planning to the next level, it's time to schedule a consultation with our team. We will walk you through the process, discuss your project and site requirements, and help you with configurations and customization. Receive a link to book a consultation by clicking the Get Started button below.
2022.04.21 | Treading Lightly, Designing Sustainably
BHC was born from a deep appreciation of the outdoors and a desire to put down roots in the places we seek adventure. Loving the outdoors puts you in close contact with the natural world, and helps to define your priorities and practices. Our entire team is consciously committed to crafting sustainably-designed products designed to last lifetimes and leave a light footprint in the woods and wild places we call home.
As stewards of the planet we thoughtfully consider each element of our brand and product to ensure a light footprint. Our core considerations:
We seek products that can be RECYCLED at the end of their life. Our target is a shell System that is 100% recyclable.
We work with LOCALLY-SOURCED products, makers, and manufacturing partners.
We select products that are SUSTAINABLY PRODUCED.
We have adopted a ZERO WASTE philosophy in our production and construction practices.
We utilize ENERGY EFFICIENT materials that consider the health of people and the planet.
In keeping with our light footprint philosophy, we recently launched the BHC tree-planting initiative, an ongoing commitment is designed to make a meaningful contribution to the health of our forests. Through this initiative, BHC is supporting Forest Recovery Canada (FRC) in their planting of 150 trees for every System 01 and 02 cabin that is purchased. FRC plants trees today for a greener and healthier tomorrow, contributing to the healthy future of our forests by increasing forest cover and adding connectivity between forested areas.
2022.01.25 | Pricing Your BHC System
It's a new year, and we're looking forward to helping cabin lovers across North America realize their Backcountry Hut dreams in 2022!
To assist with that goal, we've just launched the Official BHC Pricing Guide, a hands-on resource designed to help make planning your cabin project easier than ever. We've outlined at-a-glance pricing for all BHC exterior shell systems, including System 01 and 02 in a variety of 1-5 module configurations, ranging from 542-1800 square feet.
Explore pricing: System 00 | System 01 | System 02 | System S
Our recently launched Case Studies feature real-world budgets for specific configurations. To explore examples of construction budgets for built projects, please see our System 01 Great Lakes Cabin Case Study and System 02 Catskills Cabin Case Study.
Please note: Pricing is current as of January 2022 and subject to change. Pricing for System 02 deck modules is based on a 2/3 end glazing wall - for additional options please view the Catalogue - Standard End Wall Options page. Regional requirements may affect pricing. Pricing as listed is for exterior shell and all kit-of-parts elements as listed in the FAQ. Land, site servicing, construction, trades, interior finishes, and exterior landscaping are not included.
2021.12.21 | Happy Holidays From The BHC Team
As 2021 comes to a close, we're looking back on the last twelve months. A lot has happened, and we have much to be grateful for, including our enthusiastic community of cabin dreamers and builders!
The last year saw ten new BHC projects come to life, with many more in the planning and fabrication stages. Our clients built their cabins in dream locations - from islands to the edges of lakes, and one on top of a mountain! We launched our System S sauna to a warm welcome and much fanfare, and we've been quietly growing too, adding five new members to our team.
As is our bi-annual tradition, we've curated a sweet winter playlist to help you celebrate the holidays and ring in the New Year, whether that's from the cozy comfort of your cabin or wherever you may find yourself over the break. Take a listen, and feel free to share!
Please note that our office is closed December 24, 2021 - January 2, 2022. We will be returning back to regular business hours January 3, 2022. While our team is taking a well-deserved break they'll be away from email and phone, but rest assured we'll get back to you in the new year, and you can always find us staying active on Instagram.
Thank you for joining us this year - our community of cabin and outdoor lovers is endlessly inspiring and we're glad to count you among our friends.
2021.11.30 | Case Study: The Catskills Cabin
The Catskills Cabin is a single instance of System 02 - the original Backcountry Hut concept, inspired by traditional alpine cabin design.
Located in Catskill, New York, this two storey System 02 features 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, in 998 sq ft of interior living space. The client was a professional contractor who worked closely with their local building team to design the interior living space, finished in a rustic ski-lodge aesthetic, featuring tongue-and-groove cedar beamed ceilings, custom herringbone cedar shelving, and slate floors.
System 02 is crafted to have a minimal environmental impact on the site. Interior space is designed to be flexibly modular - with a range of efficient floor plans and flex bay options, it can accommodate families or groups. The structural system is comprised of a sustainably harvested engineered glulam timber frame, clad with prefabricated insulated wall/roof/floor panels. The envelope system can be customized to meet Net Zero and Passive House standards.
For a detailed breakdown of project details and budget elements, visit this case study on our website.
2021.11.16 | Case Study: The Great Lakes Cabin
Our cabin kits include everything you need to assemble your complete exterior cabin shell. While our kits are prefabricated and pricing is based on the exterior shell system, each cabin builder should consider additional factors and budget for elements including permits, site work, foundations, interior finishing, and construction costs, as well as the time to work through these steps.
We thought it might be helpful to explore these details in a few of our favourite built projects, starting with the Great Lakes Cabin, a single instance of System 01.
The Great Lakes Cabin is a single instance of System 01 - it was the original prototype cabin.
In January of 2019, The Backcountry Hut Company launched the Great Lakes Cabin as the IDS 2019 ‘Concept House’ in Toronto, and was purchased by an attendee at the trade show. The prototype ‘kit-of-parts’ cabin was assembled over a 72-hour period in Toronto for the show, dismantled and stored in a warehouse until the spring, and finally trucked, barged, and re-assembled on a remote island in Georgian Bay.
Every square inch of its 595 square foot footprint is utilized – featuring a lofted sleeping area, a full bathroom, and covered exterior decks at front and back entries. The structural system is comprised of a sustainably harvested engineered glulam timber frame, clad with prefabricated insulated wall/roof/floor panels. The envelope system can be customized to meet Net Zero and Passive House standards.
For a detailed breakdown of project details and budget elements, read the Case Study.
2021.10.01 | Reserve Now. Enjoy Next Spring.
There are a number of advantages to building using a prefabricated system - reduced on-site construction time, ease of assembly, and affordability. When you use a BHC System, you benefit from the cost savings of a product that's manufactured efficiently. We time our Fall System 00 and System S fabrication schedule to ensure that kits are manufactured over the winter months and ship out in the Spring.
What does that mean for you? If you're interested in building a System 00 or System S in 2022, you'll need to reserve your kit now, and finalize your purchase by October 31.
System 00, our smallest and most streamlined option, distills the iconic A-frame aesthetic down to it’s purest essentials. With a compact layout of approximately 10 x 10 feet at the ground level, it comes to life as a single bedroom sleeping bunk, or as a meditation, yoga, or art studio.
Designed to be self-assembled, System 00 is a dream DIY project. With a small team of 4-5 capable people this project can be built from start to finish in under a week. It requires no heavy machinery, and comes with a step-by-step assembly guide.
This system may be built without a construction permit, depending on the project site and intended use.
System 00 is currently available in Canada and the United States.
System S takes inspiration from Nordic sauna culture, in a free-standing sauna structure with a compact footprint of 8’ x 10’. Lined with sustainably sourced clear cedar, the interior offers a two-level bench system that comfortably seats six adults. Clad in durable painted steel, System S will withstand extreme weather conditions and keep you cozy in any climate with a Tylo Sense Pure 8 heating system.
Designed for the ultimate in instant gratification, no assembly is required! System S arrives on site fully constructed and ready to connect to existing electrical systems. This system may be placed on your site without a construction permit in most cases.
System S is currently available in Canada and the United States.
Deposit today to secure your System for 2022
Next season's kits begin shipping out to locations across North America in early Spring 2022.
How does the deposit and payment system work? Between now and October 30 you can place a $2,500 CAD deposit with us to secure your place in our Fall fabrication queue. 75% of the total remaining cost is due on October 31, with the last 25% due prior to shipment in the Spring.
If you’re ready to get started, please fill out our contact form and you will receive a consultation booking link, as well as more information about our products.
2021.09.17 | Explore System 02
As summer winds down, planning season picks up! Working through the BHC planning process for a System 02 takes about 12 months before the walls begin going up on site.
System 02, the original Backcountry Hut concept, was inspired by traditional alpine cabins. This system features flexible floor plan options in a spacious two-storey cabin designed to accommodate larger groups or families. System 02 is the most adaptable kit, with options for master bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms. Designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and requiring minimal maintenance, it offers a level of rugged durability that will stand the test of time in the harshest elements.
Whether you're in a dreaming or planning frame of mind, read through to learn more about how System 02 comes together!
System 02: Our Most Customizable Kit
This system is based on a two-storey 18.5’ x 10’ module (185 sq ft), and modules can combined to create a wide range of flexible options.
The System 02 kit is designed to be built with the support of a professional contractor. A team of experienced builders can assemble the standard three-module shell system in approximately two weeks. Additional modules or customizations may increase assembly time.
Standard Customizing Options
System 02 kits include a range of standard choices for end wall glazing, flex bay inserts, and offer our largest collection of floor plan options. View the catalogue to see our complete range of standard floor plans and options.
Flex Bays provide a unique opportunity to tailor standard floor plan modules to meet a wide range of individual needs. These customizable inserts are designed to seamlessly integrate within the standard BHC shell system and offer flexibility for storage, ensuite, and leisure uses. For best results, consult the BHC team when considering additional second floor bathrooms.
System 02 is priced from $150 CAD / square foot, and includes everything you need to build your exterior cabin shell. Estimates can be built on the Gross Built Area measurements shown for each floor plan in our catalogue.
Next season's kits begin shipping out to locations across North America in early Spring 2022.
Curious about how it all works? Head over to our website and check out the Process page for step-by-step details, and take a peek at our FAQ for answers to the commonly asked questions.
2021.07.29 | Planning Your 2022 Build
We hope you're out there enjoying the season, whether that's in your own backyard, at the lake, in the mountains, or wherever you find your summer adventures. It feels like a breath of fresh air, the newfound opportunity to explore again!
Over the last year, interest in building recreational property reached an all-time high, and we have been busy keeping up with demand. We're excited to watch as a number of new BHC Systems are popping up in dream locations across North America, and our fabrication team on Vancouver Island is busy prepping the production queue for Autumn already.
While we're getting ready for a busy fabrication season, we thought this was a good time to share a few key updates that will help you plan ahead.
Browse the New System S Installation Guide
We’ve just updated our website with a new catalogue and installation guide to walk you through the System S sauna: what's included, installation and logistics, foundation and electrical requirements, and more.
Designed for the ultimate in instant gratification, no assembly is required. System S arrives on site fully constructed and ready to connect to existing electrical systems. This system may be placed on your site without a construction permit in most cases.
Our next batch of System S saunas is available for pre-order, for Spring 2022 deliveries. Availability is limited, so reach out to us via our website contact form (or hop into our DMs) to talk to our team one on one about getting yours!
Deposit today to secure your System for 2022
We've just launched a new reservation system for our System S ready-to-install sauna and System 00 A-Frame kit! Both products are fabricated in limited edition batches, and have been in extremely high demand. If you're hoping to warm up or bunk down in 2022, our reservation system will help ensure you can secure your kit and rest assured.
To guarantee your Spring delivery, we are now accepting place-holding deposits which will guarantee your spot in the fabrication queue. Placing a $2500 CAD deposit with us means that you'll get first dibs when we release the next batch of both System S and System 00 on October 31, 2021. At that point, we ask our clients to complete the pre-delivery purchase deposit, which is 75% of the total cost. Of course, if you want to do the full deposit at the outset, that's an option too.
We fabricate over the winter, and kits will begin shipping out to locations across North America in early Spring 2022. If you're interested, please book a consultation with our team to help get the ball rolling.
Price Adjustments for 2022 Deliveries
If you’re familiar with the construction industry, you may have heard about how the last year has been impacting builders in a number of ways, from supply chain issues throughout the pandemic, to labour shortages, to the ongoing rising costs of lumber and building materials.
Our prefabricated kits use sustainable wood products from responsibly managed forests, and quality materials from well-established supplier brands. In keeping with realities in the industry, we’re making a few necessary adjustments to the pricing for our System S sauna and System 00 A-frame kit. We’ll keep you posted as we roll out new pricing, but wanted to give you the heads up first! Stay tuned for more info as we make small adjustments.
2021.06.21 | Summer 2021 Starts Now
Over the last year and then some, we've had conversations with many people who have decided to use the global pause as an opportunity to explore their dreams, get back to nature, and really dig in deep with what matters to them. For some, that's meant getting closer to the land they love and getting started on plans to build the cabin they've always dreamed of escaping to.
We've been at this for a little while now, and we've been fortunate to work with some really amazing clients, share new adventures, and make discoveries and new friends along the way. Looking forward to the summer of builds, exploring, and getting back to something a little closer to normal. We thought this was a good opportunity to share some good vibes to keep you company on your adventures, wherever they take you!
A Playlist for your Summer Adventures
The horizon of the global pandemic is finally upon us - time to get out and and enjoy a little summer adventure! Hit the open road or head out on the trail with the BHC Summer Playlist, curated by our Co-Founder Michael Leckie. Inspired by our pent-up desire to roam further from home, these songs have a classic summer road trip vibe, and are making us feel like strapping some surfboards to the roof and taking a roam.
Feel free to follow us on Spotify to stay in the loop when new seasonal playlists pop up!
A Podcast for Dreamers and Doers
Michael was recently featured on the The Craft, a heartfelt podcast featuring innovators, makers, creatives, and artists. In this episode, Michael and host May Globus enjoy an insightful conversation about his life-long love of nature and creating with his hands, the values of his architecture practice and his approach to design, and a peek into his curious and creative mind.
If you've got a long stretch of road or a big project ahead of you, plug in and listen to the collection of interviews with all sorts of interesting folks!
2021.05.31 | Escape to Cabin Living
Whether you're ready to build next summer or dreaming of a cabin a little further down the road, it always pays to plan ahead. We've gathered a little inspiration and a few suggestions that will help you escape in the here and now, and bring your cabin dreams to life in 2022.
Step-by-Step Assembly of System 02
Sited on a dramatic escarpment above the Columbia River Gorge, this System 02 came together efficiently with the help of a skilled local building team.
Are you interested in building your own System 02 cabin in 2022? It's time to begin the planning process now. While the on-site assembly time for a System 02 is between just two - four weeks, depending on the configuration details of the selected system and site, our team will help you work through key planning phases including consultation, feasibility, documentation, and fabrication. All site preparation and infrastructure work should be completed before the kit arrives on site.
Review the BHC Process for more information on each phase.
Escape to the wild with arcana
Our cabins are designed by Leckie Studio, an award-winning interdisciplinary design studio based in Vancouver. They're also behind the design of an intriguing new back-to-nature hospitality concept called arcana.
arcana is a movement that bridges the gap between urban life and the wild, and offers innovative, science-backed experiences and educational content to enable people to easily access the restorative powers of nature.
Guests can enjoy the full arcana experience by staying in one of its initial cabins nested in a self-directed nature retreat. Presently found less than a two hour drive from Toronto, in an undisclosed location revealed only to guests, the 275-square-foot cabins are clad in reflective polished stainless steel (which has been specially coated to be friendly to birds and wildlife) and are virtually invisible in the surrounding deciduous forest. On-site experiences include a private sauna, hikes, and guided forest bathing on 15km of marked trails.
They'll be opening 2022 bookings soon. In the meantime, you can stay in the loop and be inspired by signing up for The Supernaturalist — their monthly newsletter featuring thoughts + insights on returning to the wild.
*arcana is not affiliated with The Backcountry Hut Company.
2021.05.03 | Award-winning Architecture
The architecture and design team at Leckie Studio was awarded the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada's (RAIC - IRAC) Emerging Practice Award, and the jury cited our cabins as one of their outstanding projects!
Jury comments:
"Leckie Studio has produced beautiful and well-executed buildings, showing a depth of research, craft, and understanding of materiality. They have also demonstrated a commitment to sustainability with their focus on research into sustainable prefabricated mass-timber construction. With their lovely DIY (do-it-yourself) cabin, they offer a refreshing option for the construction of small remote cabins, incredibly accessible to anyone with basic building skills."
You can spot us this month bringing this piece of wilderness home to the cover of Canadian Architect magazine too! If you happen to be catching up on your reading, check it out!
2021.04.22 | Tread Lightly. Build Sustainably.
Loving the outdoors means treading lightly in the environment, and preserving our natural and wild spaces for future generations.
BHC operates with a zero-waste philosophy in the design and implementation of our systems. Selecting environmentally-conscious building materials, planning efficient uses of space and energy, and delivering a product that makes a minimal impact on the landscape are central to our approach.
Our commitment to environmental stewardship is always top of mind. We are very conscious of the impact that building can have on our natural environment, and as stewards of the planet, and we thoughtfully consider each element of our brand and product to ensure a light footprint. Our core considerations:
We work with LOCALLY-SOURCED products, makers, and manufacturing partners.
We select products that are SUSTAINABLY PRODUCED.
We have adopted a ZERO WASTE philosophy in our production and construction practices.
We utilize ENERGY EFFICIENT materials that consider the health of people and the planet.
We seek products that can be RECYCLED at the end of their life. Our target is a shell System that is 100% recyclable.
2021.03.19 | 2021 Catalogue Release
New for 2021, our System catalogs have been expanded and refined to include more information than ever to help you start planning your dream cabin.
Explore the System 02 catalogue to learn more about how you can configure your kit to perfectly fit your space and lifestyle needs. We’ve included a collection of 25 floor plans that illustrate our most popular options, and diagrams to help you understand how to incorporate multi-purpose flex bays, your options for standard end wall variations, and how the whole thing comes together.
2021.02.11 | Your Own System S Sauna
Don’t miss out! Secure one of our first System S saunas now for summer delivery.
When we launched the System S sauna last month, we knew that it would garner a lot of enthusiasm and the attention of our community. After all, the increased interest in developing recreational properties with modern amenities, and trends connecting outdoor pursuits with wellness experiences in nature, were what inspired us to create it! In the first few weeks since the launch we’ve heard from sauna lovers far and wide, and it’s official: everyone loves a good sweat.
Initially available in Ontario and Quebec, we’ve also added New York state as a shipping destination! Sauna lovers across North America will be able to get their very own System S soon - stay tuned as we roll out new destinations over the next months.
Due to positive response and pressing demand, we are very quickly selling out of our first production run. With just a few remaining, we encourage anyone who us seriously considering a System S to secure theirs now!
If you’re ready to take the next step, please schedule a consultation and we’ll help you get your sweat on in no time.
“A natural pairing for your adventuring outpost or the answer to personal-spa needs, freestanding modern, electric saunas are relatively easy to maintain and a proven way to rest weary bones. The health benefits of heat-bathing have been heralded for hundreds of years, with saunas being a staple of daily life in Scandinavia and beyond. More recently in North America, the practice is experiencing a resurgence too, with dozens of international options for prefabricated saunas ready to be delivered wherever you deem worthy.
Backcountry Hut Company, the Vancouver, BC-based studio currently making some of the most impressive prefab cabins out now, has thrown their hat into the ring too with the stunning new plug and play prefab sauna System S.
Similar to their established cabin models, the austere System S is designed to be durable, visually striking, and energy-efficient, clad in black painted steel with a massive double-glazed picture window, and heated with a Tylö electric sauna system. Taking inspiration from Nordic sauna design, the interior is lined with sustainably-sourced clear (or knot-free) cedar and fits up to six adults comfortably on its two-level bench layout.
The modest 8’ x 10’ footprint and is delivered completely assembled, ready to run, where its modest size helps to circumvent most build permit restrictions. From there, hook it up to existing electrical systems and you’re good to go.” From our friends at Field Mag
Limited availability! Register your interest in System S today.
Are you interested in installing a System S sauna on your property this year, next year, or in the future? The best way to ensure you’re the first to know about expanded delivery and availability options is to join our registration list.
Register today and we’ll keep you in the loop when our next release becomes available to pre-order!
2021.01.21 | Announcing the System S Sauna
Whether you’re seeking a warming addition to your wellness regime, or dreaming about a restorative heat session après ski, surf, or outdoor adventure, there’s nothing like your own personal sauna!
Our newest offering, System S, takes inspiration from Nordic sauna culture, in a free-standing sauna structure with a compact footprint of 8’ x 10’. Lined with sustainably sourced clear cedar, the interior offers a two-level bench system that comfortably seats six adults. Clad in durable painted steel, System S will withstand extreme weather conditions and keep you cozy in any climate.
Designed for the ultimate in instant gratification, no assembly is required! System S arrives on site fully constructed and ready to connect to existing electrical systems. This system may be placed on your site without a construction permit in most cases.
Limited availability in 2021. System S is currently available in Ontario and Quebec.
System 00 Gets a Winter-ready Update
We are always looking for ways to add value and offer solutions to make your cabin experience feel like home. One of the ways we’re doing that this year is by offering our popular System 00 with a complete insulation package as standard.
This choice increases the year-round usability of System 00, meaning that you can stay comfortable nestled inside even when the temperature drops. Whether you choose to use your System 00 as a sleeping cabin, studio space, office, or meditation room, you can rest assured that you’ll be cozy, virtually wherever you can find a little spot of your own.
More details are coming soon! We’re giving you the heads up early as we’re already taking summer 2021 orders. If you’re hoping to put a System 00 in your dream spot next year, now is the time to reach out. You can request our intro package for more information with the link below, or book a consultation with us using the link at the bottom of this email!
Key 2021 / 2022 Timelines
If you’re dreaming of building a Backcountry Hut of your own in 2021/2022, you’ll want to keep an eye on the calendar. There are always a few factors to consider when planning:
Seasonal considerations: planning your construction for dryer and warmer months is ideal. This can vary depending on your building site, although in North America we recommend completing preliminary site work and coordinating delivery to ensure the construction of your kit can fall within the April - October timeframe. This means you can work on the interior finishings with a roof over your head once the weather turns cooler and wetter.
Planning processes: with Systems 01 and 02 most clients need 6 - 12 months to complete feasibility and documentation stages, as well as any customizations, prior to fabrication. You can learn more about the BHC process here.
Production queue: our kits are custom fabricated, and the process takes about 3 months from the time payment is made. Due to high demand, there may be a production queue to consider as well. To achieve the outcome you desire, get in touch with us now to learn more about our production queue, and get help with your next steps.
2020.11.17 | Stay Warm with BHC
With 2020 coming to a close, we’re looking back on how far we’ve come together, and thinking ahead to how excited we are for what’s next.
In our neck of the woods, cabins were started and cabins were finished, others are lined up and ready to come to life in 2021. Our tightly-knit team grew a little, even while we were often kept apart. We launched System 00, the iconic Arrowhead A-Frame that works as a sleeping cabin, studio space, or whatever-you-need getaway - just as many people realized how much they crave a little nook in nature to call their own. We made friends, built things, brewed things, and are keeping a few exciting announcements and schemes up our sleeves for next year!
In the meantime, we’ve gathered a few things to help stoke your cabin dreams over the winter break.
First up, we’re excited to share this video showing the original System 01 - the Great Lakes cabin launched at IDS Toronto - coming to life on a private island in Ontario’s cottage country. This 700 square feet kit was assembled with the support of a professional team, and built on a dream site along with three separate System 00 cabins.
Collaborations and Contests
If you’ve been following along on Instagram, you may have noticed our recent collaboration with our friends at Land & Sea craft brewery in Comox, BC. They’re just a stone’s throw from our production facility in Courtenay, and we were excited to work with their head brewer to create this finely-crafted Backcountry Ale.
To celebrate the season of giving, we're giving away a sample of the beer, along with a collection of cabin-inspired goods from a few of our local Canadian small business favourites!
One lucky winner will receive a sample four-pack of Backcountry Ale, a cozy Canadian Shield blanket from Norquay Co., a campfire-scented cedar + smoke candle from Madera Goods, and a copy of Escapology, featuring System 01 on the cover!
Enter on Instagram - just tag a friend in the comments of the post to be entered to win. The contest is open until 11:59 PST December 31st. And thanks for following along!
Cabin vibes are good vibes…
Whether you’re spending the holidays in your own remote cabin paradise, or still dreaming about it this year, press play on our winter playlist! Michael has curated a collection that celebrates long winter nights and all good vibes. No holiday music, don’t worry!
2021.01.21 | Flexible Options with System 00
Sleeping cabin, studio space, office, or meditation room. System 00 can be whatever you'd find comfort in, virtually wherever you can find a little spot of your own. With a compact layout of 10 x 10 feet at the ground level - and the option to include a storage or micro-loft space above - there are no limits to the creative ways you can use your space.
Our System 00 launch was a big success this year, and we’re excited to see these cabins popping up in some of our favourite locations across North America. With so much interest coming from cabin lovers setting down roots in cold northern climates, we’ve added an extra level of comfort for our second season! In 2021, all System 00 cabins will include a full 3 1/2” Rock Wool insulation package as part of the standard kit, with an insulation value of R14.
Designed to be self-assembled, System 00 is a dream DIY project. With a small team of 4-5 capable people this project can be built from start to finish in under a week. It requires no heavy machinery, and comes with a step-by-step building guide. Do you have questions? Check out our FAQ!
Posts in our Journal may include dated information that was accurate at the time of distribution. For any questions, please contact us at info@thebackcountryhutcompany.com. Subscribe to have our Journal delivered directly to your inbox each month!
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