Photos by Jacob McNeil Photography
A long, winding driveway leads to Shelter Cove, a waterfront retreat that redefines luxury living on Vancouver Island. Conceived and brought to life by Terry Johal Developments, this extraordinary home rests masterfully against a sculpted rock cliffside, seamlessly blending the rugged beauty of the coast with an effortless elegance that only decades of craftsmanship can deliver.
From the moment one arrives, the West Coast exterior commands attention. Linear massing of natural stone and smooth stucco grounds the residence in the landscape, while composite slate over steeply pitched rooflines pays homage to traditional design in a thoroughly modern expression. Panoramic ocean vistas stretch beyond every window, filling each space with a sense of infinite horizon. The architectural drawings by Hoyt Design established a bold, cohesive framework that celebrates these views while honouring the site’s natural contours.
Inside, Mari Kushino Design has curated a timeless farmhouse aesthetic mingled gracefully with bohemian styling. White oak floors run beneath foot, their warm grain echoed in extensive millwork that wraps the main level. Sunlight cascades across each room through picture windows, softly tinted to temper the ocean’s glare.
Custom arches introduce a gentleness to the home’s rectilinear design, framing views and transitions with a refined touch.
The kitchen is a study in artful detail. Exquisite Delft tilework adds a storied character, perfectly balanced by the lightness of marble vanities and shower surrounds that gleam in the adjacent baths. In the great room, doors fold away completely, dissolving the barrier between indoors and the expansive outdoor entertaining space. Here, a covered cedar soffit shelters an alfresco kitchen and lounge, where every seat is poised to take in the endless ocean view. Beyond, a gas fire pit glows beside a striking infinity pool that seems to pour into the sea itself.
A reading room tucked to one side offers a hushed retreat. Earthy green walls and lush textures invite a slower pace, an invitation to linger and watch the light shift across the water. Every corner of the home bears the mark of skilled artisans—ornamental ironwork, precise millwork, and custom-built furniture pieces that elevate daily living to an art form.
Sustainability was as important as beauty in this build. Shelter Cove achieves Step Code 4 standards and a suite of green building initiatives. Geothermal heating serves both the residence and the pool, while ground source heat pumps and a heat recovery ventilator ensure year-round comfort. Permeable pavers line the hardscape, allowing rain to nourish a thoughtfully designed rain garden.
Energy Star appliances and a Control4 automation system blend convenience with efficiency, ensuring that this serene refuge is as future-focused as it is timeless.
At the heart of Shelter Cove’s vision stands Terry Johal himself. As Victoria’s premier custom home builder, Terry has spent over two decades turning dream homes into tangible legacies. Second generation in his trade, he has earned a reputation for unwavering commitment to quality. More than just the name behind the company, Terry is a constant presence on every site, working alongside his crew to guarantee every detail meets his exacting standards. With a philosophy rooted in hands-on collaboration and a passion for spaces that feel as good as they look, Terry Johal Developments continues to shape the West Coast’s most remarkable residences—homes built for life, and designed for you.