Carriage Houses
Custom Carriage Homes on Vancouver Island & Gulf Islands
Island Heights Construction specializes in designing and building bespoke carriage houses across Nanaimo, Mill Bay, Duncan, Tofino, Port Alice, Cowichan Bay, Cobble Hill, Parksville, Nanoose, Ladysmith, Lake Cowichan, Port Alberni, Courtenay, and the surrounding coastal region. We blend local craftsmanship with smart design so every carriage house is as functional as it is appealing.
Why Carriage Houses Work for Island Living
Carriage homes (detached accessory dwelling units) offer flexible living spaces ideal for rental income, guest suites, or work-from-home studios. In Nanaimo, Parksville, and Courtenay, these home additions are rising in popularity, adding equity while preserving yard space and supporting multigenerational living.
Our Carriage House Design + Build Process
We oversee every step of your project—from concept to completion—with expert management and attention to detail.
Site & Zoning for Carriage Houses
We evaluate your lot—whether in Mill Bay or Ladysmith—for setbacks, coverage, and municipal regulations.
Custom Carriage House Design Options
Choose from studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom layouts, all tailored to your coastal lifestyle.
Permits for Carriage House Builds
We prepare and submit applications to Nanaimo, Duncan, Port Alberni, and other municipalities on your behalf.
Interior & Exterior Finish for Carriage Houses
We use coastal-grade materials, energy-efficient systems, quality cabinetry, flooring, and exterior siding.
Building Carriage Houses That Withstand the Coast
Our carriage houses are engineered for longevity in Vancouver Island’s climate with:
Moisture-resistant siding and roofing
High-performance insulation (minimum R-24)
LED lighting and heat-pump mini-splits
Smart-home features and solar-ready infrastructure
Your Carriage House Project Timeline
From the first consultation to handing over keys, here’s how the process flows:
Introductory meeting and site evaluation
Design finalization and material selections
Permit submission and approval
Construction phase (foundation to finish work)
Final walkthrough with complete documentation
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a carriage house?
A compact, detached dwelling on your property—perfect for guests, renters, or a home office.
Do I require a permit?
Yes. Each carriage house must meet local zoning, building, and utility permit requirements.
Can I rent out my carriage house?
Absolutely. Rental use is permitted in many municipalities, including Nanaimo, Duncan, and Port Alberni.
How big can carriage houses be in BC?
They typically range from 400 to 900 sq ft, depending on local zoning and setbacks.
What finishes are included?
Options include hardwood flooring, quartz countertops, coastal cabinetry, stainless appliances, and more.
Build a Custom Carriage House With Island Heights
If you’re dreaming of a beautifully crafted carriage house in Nanaimo, Cowichan Bay, or Parksville, let’s start planning.
Contact Island Heights Construction today.
Helpful Resources
BC Government – Secondary Suite & ADU Guide — Official guide covering regulations for carriage houses and laneway suites in BC.
Secondary Suite & ADU GuideBC Building Code – Accessory Dwelling Unit Standards — BC code standards for carriage houses including fire separation, exits, and structural regulations.
Accessory Dwelling Unit StandardsNorth Cowichan – Accessory Dwelling Unit Guide — Municipal resource outlining zoning, parking, and design rules for carriage houses.
North Cowichan ADU GuideBC Housing – Home Suite Home Guide (PDF) — In-depth BC-wide guide to carriage house design and policy.
Home Suite Home Guide (PDF)