Outdoor living: At home in nature

Magnificent views, stylish poolside patios and places to play are all showcased in the work of these five finalists in the outdoor categories of the 2020 HAVAN Awards. Presented by FortisBC, the annual awards highlight the work of British Columbia’s homebuilding industry.

© Provoke Studios At Milano in Burnaby, unique geometric shapes ensure the property looks different from every angle. The exterior is also designed as a community space for residents, and a functional extension of their homes.

Parkland and privacy

Best Outdoor Living Space – Single-Family Production or Multi-Family (NEW)

Builder: Solterra Development Corp.

Project Name: Milano (Brentwood, Burnaby)

The location of amenities in the 20,000-square-foot outdoor community space at Milano, a highrise in Burnaby’s Brentwood neighbourhood, was carefully considered: those that would be used more often were placed along the south-facing side because the neighbouring property is designated to become a public park.

“We wanted to maximize the privacy for the homeowners as well as [take advantage of] the forever non-obstructed view toward the Metrotown skyline,” says Leanne Rundle, marketing and creative director for Solterra Development Corp.

The architectural lines of the building give it a different look from every angle. That inspired the use of geometric shapes throughout the exterior community spaces—most noticeably in the oversized planter boxes (used to create and divide usable areas for different activities) and the shape of the putting greens, says Rundle.

Aiming to create an exterior community space that is an extension of the residents’ homes, with spaces to entertain guests, friends and family, the amenities include a kitchen and barbecue station, harvest tables, movie screen and seating, fire pit, community gardens, kids’ play area, putting green, outdoor fitness equipment and open lawn.

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