Our practice is founded on the belief that good house design can be a truly transformative force in peoples’ lives and for the greater health of the planet. Our projects vary in size from tiny cabins and home renovations to large custom homes and commercial design. We have a particular interest in sustainable home design to create enduring and beautiful homes that live lightly on the earth. To learn more, watch a short video here.
Home design at its best considers the unique opportunities of each site while responding to the distinctive needs and desires of each client. Our design process is “relationship based,” and builds on John Gower’s particular skill in listening to clients and translating their wishes and requirements into thoughtful architectural concepts. Read more about our design process here.
John Gower Design is based in Courtenay, British Columbia, Canada, and while most clients are in British Columbia, John Gower works with clients across North America and worldwide.
Kathy & David L.
Saanich, BC
Meet John Gower
Caring, listening, and attention to detail are the hallmarks of John Gower’s residential design approach. In practice since 1990, John has been immersed in the design world since his youth, when he spent hours watching draftsmen draw up sketches and plans for his architect father.
Later, John attended Carleton University’s School of Architecture in Ottawa, as well as the University of British Columbia, where he studied land-use planning, environmental law, urban geography, and philosophy. Having worked as a builder, John combines practical know-how with a thorough grounding in architectural theory.
Most recently, John has completed intensive Passive House training in order to expand his expertise in energy-efficient home design. He also continues to develop his proficiency in integrating renewable energy technologies and permaculture principles into affordable house designs.
John lives with his family in a co-housing community, where he continues to learn about the ways in which good design can create connections between neighbours and support a high quality of life. His residential design practice is currently growing to include site planning and design for other developing co-housing communities on Vancouver Island.