John Gower, the owner and principal designer of BC Mountain Homes, has a vision. "I see many people today looking for a different kind of home. Unlike the increasingly large and homogeneous houses of the 1980's and '90's, the home they want is modest in size, but generous in its capacity to embrace and nurture life. It is constructed with care, using quality materials to have enduring value and appeal. It is comfortable, practical, and economical to build. It is welcoming and friendly to the street. And its architecture is timeless, to fit gracefully and respectfully in any neighborhood. "I believe that such smaller houses— where comfort, practicality and beauty co-exist in harmony— represent an idea whose time has truly come. They're better for the environment, and they enhance the quality of life— both for our communities and for those who live in them. I am glad to help make this option available to everyone."

John has been steeped in architecture and design for much of his 45 years. As a boy, he spent many hours at his father's architectural practice, watching draftsmen draw up sketches and plans of houses, schools, and public buildings. In the mid-1980's, John studied at Carleton University's School of Architecture in Ottawa, Canada. His academic background also includes studies in land-use planning, environmental law, urban geography, and philosophy.

As well as being schooled in architectural theory, John has experience in the practicalities of building new homes and renovating older houses. Through this construction experience, he has gained the ability to dovetail the spatial and aesthetic ideas of architecture with the sensibilities and cost-consciousness of the job-site. His approach to design reflects that builder's know-how, a quality appreciated by owners and contractors alike.

In addition to the aesthetic concepts of a designer and the practical considerations of a builder, John incorporates a soulful approach to his work. Deeply connected to the land, his creative roots are in nature and in a critical appreciation of the architecture around us.

It's an approach that brings together the best of all elements— ­ head, heart and soul. And it shows in the relationships he builds with clients. John pays attention to what his clients want and transforms those wishes into solid, thoughtful architectural concepts, well-detailed drawings, and homes of enduring beauty and comfort.