Fernie Combining the best of old and new 901 Fernie is teaching the smart-growth school of thought by TANYA LAING MOORE
STUNNING SIGHTS: 901 Fernie’s premier suite will feature amazing mountain views, an indoor/outdoor fireplace and unique 14-foot ceilings with original wood rafters. —photo by Tanya Laing Moore
HISTORY RENEWED: Beth Dennahower stands in front of the original Fernie School in the midst of its transformation. —photo by Tanya Laing Moore
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.
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.
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.”
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.
Key Fernie contacts
Stanford Inn Fernie
Stanford Inn is Fernie’s finest vacation resort, offering an array
of amenities in an effort to give each guest a tailored experience. Enjoy
a massage at the spa while taking in the scenic view, warm up by the fire
at The Office Bar & Grill with your favorite beverage, head to Delmonica’s
Restaurant for an après ski meal or get physical at the fitness
centre and 166’ waterslide at the swimming pool. Located between
Fernie and the ski resort along the banks of the Elk River, the Stanford
offers both an ideal setting and all of the services necessary for your
vacation dreams to come true.
Stanford Inn Fernie
100 Riverside Way
Fernie, B.C., Canada V0B 1M1
PHONE: (250) 423-5000
TOLL FREE: 1-877-423-5600
EMAIL: reservationsfernie@stanfordinns.com
WEBSITE:
Stratton Plumbing & Heating Ltd
Po Box 1733 Fernie BC V0B 1M0
Phone:(250) 423-4778
Fax: (250) 423-4771
