Set within 45 acres of serene forested land in Bancroft, Ontario, Bancroft Retreat embodies a harmonious blend of sustainable living and mindful design. This self-built, off-grid residence serves as both a personal sanctuary for our clients, Ece and Ivan, and a future retreat space aimed at fostering healing and deeper connections with nature.

The design draws inspiration from the clients' vision of a life deeply rooted in the rhythms of the land—where daily rituals include observing wildlife, growing food, and stargazing under clear night skies. The architecture reflects this ethos, combining durability and simplicity with a quiet elegance. Natural materials are central to the home’s identity, most notably its shou sugi ban wood cladding—charred and treated by the clients themselves, using trees harvested from a neighbouring property. This intimate, hands-on process reinforces the connection between craft, landscape, and lifestyle.

Sustainability is at the core of this project. The home is designed with net-zero principles in mind, incorporating south-facing orientations, thermally robust walls, high-efficiency windows, and concrete floors that act as thermal mass. A gasification boiler powered by on-site wood, paired with a propane backup, ensures reliable heating, while a rooftop solar array provides electricity for full off-grid functionality.

Currently under construction, Bancroft Retreat is a labour of love. Ece and Ivan document their journey on their blog Self Build Sustainable, offering an honest look at the rewards and realities of building your own home with intention. When complete, the home will become Whispering Forest—a nature-immersed retreat where others can come to rest, reflect, and reconnect.