Designing our Dream Home in Sooke

In 2019, we bought a vacant lot in Sooke, BC, with a vision of creating our own coastal retreat. As a fashion designer and landscaper, we united our creativity to build a luxury vacation suite that embodies both artistry and the essence of nature. Just 200 metres from Whiffin Spit, Seagull Studio Vacation Suite offers guests effortless access to serene beaches, scenic walks, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Our private one-bedroom suite faces east, allowing the morning sun to fill the space with warmth and light, promoting a relaxing atmosphere. Outside, John’s landscaping brings the garden to life, featuring tranquil sitting areas, lush greenery, and a peaceful retreat where guests can unwind. From thoughtful details inside the suite to the beauty of the garden, every element was carefully selected to ensure your stay is both luxurious and inviting. Community is close to our hearts; John is a dedicated Sooke Rotarian, and together we contribute to this worthy cause along with an annual donation to the Sooke Transition House, supporting women and children fleeing abusive homes. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a quiet escape, or an adventure to explore Vancouver Island’s natural beauty, Seagull Studio is your perfect slice of paradise by the ocean.

When we began designing our *Dream Home* in Sooke, our wish list for the perfect coastal retreat was both ambitious and thoughtful. We envisioned a main floor designed for easy living as we age, featuring an open layout and accessible features. The second level accommodates bedrooms for family and guests, alongside our workspaces, offering a balance of private retreat areas and functional office space. At the far end of the property, we planned a separate, private *luxury vacation suite* that is ideal for hosting guests or providing a serene getaway for short stays. Building on a slab with in-floor heating meant we had to carefully consider storage options. With the garage being used for storage, and John’s workshop brimming with tools and landscaping equipment, it became evident that we needed additional space. This led to the creation of a garden shed, which not only keeps everything organized but also complements the natural aesthetic of our home. John and I lived in the guest suite for five months during construction, which turned out to be a blessing. Being on-site allowed us to stay deeply involved in the process, ensuring that every detail was executed to our vision, including the charming *Seagull Studio*. We kept the construction site clean and tidy, even introducing recycling practices to the crew, helping to minimize waste and reduce the environmental impact of the build. The result is a home that reflects our personal styles and values—a place where we can grow, create, and welcome others into our little slice of paradise.

After designing our dream coastal retreat and living in the luxury vacation suite during COVID while the final touches were being completed, it quickly became clear that we needed a garden shed. With John being a retired professional landscaper, his collection of tools was vast, and with our new, larger property, there was much more to maintain. Proper storage wasn’t just a convenience; it was a necessity. We spent time researching different garden sheds, but none quite fit our vision. We knew we wanted something functional that also blended harmoniously with the design of our home. So, we decided to design one ourselves, ensuring it matched the aesthetic of our property while providing ample space for John's tools and equipment. Though the project took longer than we originally anticipated, the end result was worth the wait. We absolutely love our custom-built garden shed as it’s not only practical but also a beautiful addition to the property, and we couldn’t be happier with how everything turned out. Along with our gorgeous luxury vacation suite in Sooke, BC, we now have a beautiful garden shed and our creative space, Seagull Studio.

We live in this wonderful community called Whiffin Spit, just 200 metres from the stunning coastline of the Pacific Ocean. The SPIT, as we affectionately refer to it, serves as a tranquil coastal retreat right at your doorstep. The flat, well-maintained walking path stretches 2.7 kilometres, guiding you to the tip of the spit, where you can soak in panoramic views of the surrounding water, watch passing boats, and, if you're lucky, spot seals, otters, or even whales. It’s the perfect way to unwind and immerse yourself in the peaceful beauty of Vancouver Island’s shoreline. For those seeking a bit more adventure, the nearby Sooke Hills offer an array of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to more challenging climbs with rewarding vistas. If you prefer being on the water, kayaking through Sooke Harbour is a serene way to explore the coastline, where you can paddle through calm waters, discover hidden coves, and observe local wildlife up close. Whether you're an experienced outdoor enthusiast or just want a leisurely stroll, Sooke has something for everyone. And for a perfect stay, consider the luxury vacation suite options available nearby, such as the charming Seagull Studio. No matter your fitness level, stepping outside to enjoy the crisp ocean air and breathtaking natural surroundings will leave you feeling refreshed and reconnected with nature—an experience that truly defines life in paradise.