The Serenity Gardens expand on the Kingfisher’s own premise, of being “Nestled in a coastal forest on the eastern shore of Vancouver Island, the Kingfisher Oceanside Resort and Spa offers breathtaking ocean and mountain views.” The signature west coast experience embodied by the Kingfisher has inspired our design to draw out guests and incorporate their relaxation and enjoyment into the landscape itself.
This project was designed with my colleague, David Bossom. Discussions began with the Owner and General Manager of the Kingfisher Resort on style, layout, access and budget.
Winding pathways meander over flowing streams, past bubbling waterfalls and into cozy niche patios with private gas fire bowls. Dramatic narrow ‘punctuation conifers’ keep critical sightlines open while adding structure and interest. Sightlines were critical to retain ocean views from the lower floor suites. The gardens are lush, floriferous, with sweeping transitions between the seasons.
Photography by Bryan Chu.
Installation 2018 – 2020, David Bossom and crew, in phases
Winter Serenity Gardens – annually beginning in 2019 to present
To brighten up the long winter days and bring colour and joy to their guests, the resort desired a seasonal lights display. We worked together to create a spectacular seasonal lights display that raised $10,000 in donations for YANA Comox Valley.
Hundreds of thousands of lights adorn the gardens, igniting a magical setting. Full size glowing, towering conifers, cherry blossom trees, weeping willows, shimmering tulips, illuminated grasses, 10ft tall Dandelions and many more spectacular light features.
Winter Serenity Gardens Photographs by Boomer Jerritt (Strathcona Photography),
courtesy of the Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa.
