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Natural wood, bold kitchens, and energy-efficient charm — featuring real homes by Legacy Built
As 2025 gets into full swing, the Kootenays continue to shine as a magnet for modern mountain living. With snow-dusted peaks, serene lakes, and a lifestyle that embraces nature without letting go of comfort, it’s no surprise that homeowners in this beautiful pocket of British Columbia are leaning into design that’s as intentional as it is inspired.
At Legacy Built Homes, we’ve had the privilege of turning dreams into reality across the region and in doing so, we’ve seen firsthand what’s resonating most with today’s homeowners. This year’s trends? They’re bold, grounded, sustainable, and deeply personal. Here’s a peek at the top five design directions shaping Kootenay homes in 2025 with highlights from projects we’re proud to have built.
1. The Revival of Natural Wood
Wood is back in a big way and not just in cozy cabins. We’re talking about elegant, nature-inspired spaces that celebrate wood in all its organic glory. Think white oak floors with soft grain patterns, exposed Douglas fir beams that draw the eye upward, and custom walnut cabinetry that feels rich and timeless.
One of our recent builds in Fernie is a perfect example. We used locally sourced cedar throughout the home, from the ceiling of the great room to the master suite’s stunning wall panels. Paired with polished concrete floors, the natural textures brought warmth and serenity to the space. It’s a look (and a feel) our clients love, especially when winter rolls in.
2. Bold Kitchens That Make a Statement
Goodbye, sterile all-white kitchens. 2025 is all about character. Deep blues, forest greens, textured stones, and matte black finishes are taking over and in the best way possible. Kitchens are evolving into true gathering spaces, where design meets daily life in a way that’s functional, beautiful, and memorable.
One of our favorite recent projects in Cranbrook brought this to life. We went bold with forest green cabinetry, added brushed brass hardware for a touch of luxury, and anchored everything with a veined quartz waterfall island. The result? A kitchen that’s striking but never overdone — dramatic yet welcoming, and the undeniable heart of the home.
3. Energy Efficiency, Without Compromise
In the Kootenays, sustainability isn’t a trend, it’s a way of life. But homeowners aren’t willing to sacrifice style or comfort to achieve it. That’s why we’re seeing more demand for energy-smart homes that also tell a story.
Our “Aspen Ridge” build near Nelson is a great example. Designed with net-zero goals in mind, it features airtight construction, solar-ready infrastructure, and high-efficiency mechanical systems — all wrapped in reclaimed wood siding and hand-forged steel accents. It’s proof that a home can be both eco-conscious and full of personality.
4. Elevated Indoor-Outdoor Living
In the Kootenays, the outdoors is part of the home and more clients are asking us to blur the boundaries. Sliding glass walls, heated decks, outdoor kitchens, and even retractable glass rooms are redefining what it means to live “inside.”
On one of our Kootenay Lake builds, we installed 12-foot folding glass doors that open onto a heated patio with sweeping lake views. Add a stone fireplace and built-in sound system, and you’ve got a year-round entertaining space.
5. Spaces That Reflect Real Life
Open-concept layouts are still a favorite, but today’s homes also need nooks, corners, and dedicated zones for work, wellness, hobbies, and downtime. Homeowners want spaces that support their lifestyle — not just look good on a Pinterest board.
In Trail, we built a custom office with mountain views and smart glass for instant privacy. In Invermere, we transformed a sunny loft into a flexible learning and play space for growing kids. These kinds of personal touches make a house feel truly like home and add long-term value, too.
FAQs
What sustainable features should I focus on for a 2025 build in the Kootenays?
Start with airtight construction, triple-pane windows, and an HRV system. Then think about solar readiness, LED lighting, and high-efficiency heating. Bonus points for local or reclaimed materials that blend naturally with the environment.
Will a bold kitchen hurt my home’s resale value?
Not if you do it right. Choose rich but timeless colors like navy or forest green, and pair them with quality finishes and natural materials. Bold doesn’t have to mean trendy, it can mean memorable.
Can I still do open-concept and have personalized rooms?
Absolutely. Today’s homes often feature hybrid layouts like open main areas for connection, plus thoughtfully designed spaces for work, rest, or play. It’s the best of both worlds.
What’s Legacy Built Homes’ approach to custom design?
We start with you — your lifestyle, your vision, your values. From there, we collaborate every step of the way, blending architectural expertise with local insight to create homes that are as functional as they are beautiful.
Final Thoughts
Design in the Kootenays is evolving and it’s all about authenticity. Whether it’s the warmth of natural wood, the wow-factor of a bold kitchen, or a home that performs as beautifully as it looks, 2025 is the year of meaningful, lasting choices.
At Legacy Built Homes, we’re proud to be helping shape this new chapter of mountain living. With a deep respect for craftsmanship and community, we build homes that reflect the people who live in them- inspired by nature, driven by purpose, and ready for the future.
Ready to create your dream home in the Kootenays?
Let’s start the conversation and start building something extraordinary.
Author’s website- https://legacybuilthomes.ca/
Email- legacybuiltdbr@gmail.com
Phone- 250-558-9531
