Combining the best of old and new
901 Fernie is teaching the smart-growth school of thought
Beth Dennahower stands in front of the original Fernie School in the midst of its transformation. —Photo by Tanya Laing Gahr
While Fernie has been experiencing a housing boom—several developments are focused on trying to meet the demand for recreational properties—one project in particular has taken a unique approach. h3. A timely transformation 901 Fernie is a development that strives to serve as an example of smart-growth development, utilizing an existing site within the downtown core to create multi-family housing. In this case, the project is redeveloping the old Fernie schoolhouse, built in 1908, into 44 modern luxury residences. Beth Dennahower, the marketing director for the project, believes that the development is fulfilling Fernie’s desire to create living spaces that enhance existing buildings as opposed to creating urban sprawl. “It’s not as much of a burden on the infrastructure because it builds on existing infrastructure,” said Dennahower. h3. Environmentally friendly 901 Fernie has demonstrated a further commitment to sound environmental practices in its choice of building materials. “We’ve chosen high-efficiency-type appliances,” Dennahower said. “The heating system is electric forced air, which is easier on the environment and more efficient.” She also noted that windows, plumbing systems and insulation materials used are environmentally friendly. The response from the community has been very positive, according to Dennahower. “The building had been vacant for quite some time since it closed as a school,” she said. “The community had really yearned for something to be developed there. I think this vision makes use of every aspect of the building. It will also bring 44 new families into the downtown.” h3. Unique features One of the unique features of the development is that it utilizes as much of the existing structure as possible. For example, the premier suite boasts 14-foot ceilings featuring the original rafters from when that part of the building functioned as the woodworking area of the school. And the original windows provide stunning views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains, including the Three Sisters and Mount Hosmer. Dennahower pointed out that 901 Fernie will include heated mineral pools and spa facilities. She added that the development is attracting attention from both within and outside of Fernie. “It’s a really interesting blend,” said Dennahower. “The demographics are quite varied. It reflects the tourism demographic, but also reflects the people living in Fernie and the Elk Valley.” The first phase of 901 Fernie will be ready for occupation in April. Details can be found at "www.901Fernie.com(http://www.901Fernie.com)":http://www.901Fernie.com
Key Fernie contacts
Cranbrook, BC
A global leader in the production and sale of hard coking coal
Our company is a global leader in the production and sale of hard coking coal...a relatively uncommon mineral that is essential in the production of steel. With six mines in two Canadian provinces, more than 3,000 employees and a business focused on supplying world steel producers, our company is strongly positioned in a very competitive market.
Cranbrook, BC
Explore the wonders at Island Lake Lodge
Secluded in the peaks of Canada's Kootenay Rockies, Island Lake Lodge and Spa sits on 7,000 acres of pristine wilderness, above a picturesque mountain lake surrounded by an old-growth forest.
Hiking trails begin at the doorstep of each lodge gaining you access to gentle walks and rocky mountain peaks. Our full-service mountain spa promises to relax and renew your senses. Acclaimed food and wine await you at the end of each day in our Ancient Timbers Dining Room.
This summer join us and experience British Columbia's ultimate retreat Island Lake Resort and Spa in the Rocky Mountains near Fernie, B.C.
Cranbrook, BC
We pride ourselves on quality parts, service and products.
At Rocky Mountain Diesel, we pride ourselves on making quality repairs to all makes of trucks and trailers. Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains we know the tough conditions that your truck is put through every day. As a Western Star Trucks dealer we are committed to providing our customers with the latest in diagnostic equipment and highly trained technicians. Our up-to-date facility can accommodate even the longest configurations. The trucks you operate are a big investment, and we want to help your company be successful. Call or stop by and see for yourself why we have been keeping trucks like yours on the road for over 20 years.
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At The Bedroom Furniture Galleries, the customer comes first - and we mean it! We offer a 60 day home comfort guarantee on everything we sell. If your not completely happy with you purchase let us know and we'll be glad to find you something else or refund your money.
We are the Kootenay's La-Z-Boy Gallery so we have every style available with a cutting edge design center. with thousands of leather and fabric choices you'll find exactly what your looking for to customize your space.
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Making beautiful home furnishings affordable
At Ashley Furniture Home Store, we make beautiful home furnishings affordable. Because the Ashley Team controls all processes from design to delivery, we are able to reduce our costs and pass these savings on to our customers as exclusive Ashley Furniture Home Store pricing. We are locally owned and operated, so we have better insight into the needs and preferences of our customers at the local level. Additionally, many of our stores actively participate in charitable events that promote the enrichment of their communities. Most significantly, we are committed to you, our customer, and want to ensure you have an excellent experience each time you visit us.
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Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies
Occupying more than 1,250 acres, Forest Crowne is the largest master planned community in the area, which is bordered by the 2,300-acre Kimberley Nature Park, Mark Creek, Kimberley Municipal Golf Course—and will have connections to the Kimberley Alpine Resort and to Nordic Ski trails.
We have single family lots (phase 3) available to purchase to build your own dream home. For those who want to buy a finished home, Eagles Nest Homes offers one- and two-storey cottages with steep roof pitches, long covered porches, multi-paned windows, old fashioned details and the genuine neighbourly feeling of communities past. Imagine single family homes for under $300,000!
Richmond, BC
PHONE: 1-800-663-2872
Fernie, BC
Fernie, BC
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Fernie, BC
Vital statistics
- Population :: 4,160
- Number of businesses :: 645
- Supporting industries :: Mining, tourism, forestry, construction, trade, service
Vital contacts
- City of Fernie :: http://www.fernie.ca
- Mayor :: Cindy Corrigan
- Chamber of Commerce :: http://www.ferniechamber.com
- Manager :: Lynn Flokstra
- Phone ::1-877-433-7643
Biz Blog :: Keith Powell
A regular report on newsworthy business developments in the Kootenays.
Kootenay Insights :: Tanya Laing Gahr
An inside look at the initiatives and developments that help shape Kootenay communities.
At Work :: Sandra Albers
One-on-one with some of the Kootenay’s business leaders.
Biz Edge :: Danielle Cameron
The faces behind Kootenay businesses.
