Clarke Street Residence

Nestled into a cliffside in Kamloops, this modest 1930s character home conceals a layered and evolving interior. Over three years, Olympic athlete Jake Wetzel undertook an extensive renovation, reimagining the house while preserving its original character. Drawing inspiration from the villages of the Faroe Islands, the design introduces moments of color and a strong connection between interior and landscape.

The project centers on expanding livable space for the family. The existing basement was excavated to create a more generous lower level, anchored by an open kitchen and dining area. Two sets of folding doors extend this space outward to adjacent patios, effectively doubling the usable area during the summer months while maintaining the home’s original footprint.

On the main floor, a glass-enclosed office and an expanded primary suite—inserted within the former garage—introduce new program without disrupting the overall form. Above, the upper level is refined with lye- and soap-treated Douglas fir flooring and a restrained material palette that allows the family’s art collection to take prominence. The original fireplace is retained as a central feature within the living space.

The relationship between inside and out is carefully reinforced. New window openings frame views into the garden, while weathering steel is used externally for a custom shed and privacy elements. Over time, these surfaces patinate, embedding the project further within its landscape.

This renovation is a study in adaptation and continuity—expanding and reworking the home without compromising its historic identity. The project was developed in collaboration with Robert Lemon, who established the initial layout, and Catherine Howell, who led the landscape design..