Located on a saltwater inlet on Second Peninsula near UNESCO’s own Lunenburg, the Concept House is a contemporary, award-winning off-grid sustainable retreat for up to six people, designed by Solterre Design. A network of local craftsmen built this off-grid 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in 2012 that sets a new standard for self-sufficiency and provides a comfortable, open concept and eclectic space to host your vacation and family and friends. Or, the favourite aspect of the house? To simply gaze across the gently sloping pasture to the ocean.

There are many spaces where to relax and enjoy the view – an outdoor dining patio that seats ten, a firepit and many paths through the '3 Pastures' lands to enjoy both waterfronts a wharf and great swimming on Martins Brook and also a sandy beach on Princes Inlet. These shorelines are some of the most idyllic kayaking and sailing waters in the Maritimes. Many islands within the Mahone Bay of islands are public and perfect spots to enjoy a picnic during your kayaking adventures. Biking on Second Peninsula will lead you to Bachman’s Beach, or the opposite direction will be a bike trail directly into Lunenburg for a day of touring, lunching and shopping.

Even though the Concept House is off-grid, it provides all the typical creature comforts: a tv area, wifi, dishwasher, freezer, clothes washer and two full baths. There is a chef’s kitchen with a propane range, stocked provisions in the pantry and a 15-foot long stainless counter.

Interested in living in one of Canada's most energy-efficient houses while enjoying the beautiful shoreline? The Concept House Retreat provides the rare opportunity to stay in an award-winning house that is completely off the grid. The Concept House has all the amenities of modern life, yet provides comfort, activities and more all while cutting your carbon footprint to the most minimal effect. More information about the Concept House can be viewed on the Solterre Design website.

Guests can have as much or as little contact with us hosts as desired. You will never be left in the lurch in finding everything you need!

Most people arrive at the Concept House Retreat and are immediately distracted with the view. Don't expect to go far into the beautiful surroundings of Second Peninsula and Lunenburg County until you have soaked in the view from morning til night, when you'll see the most spectacular view of the stars ... telescope included.

One can travel ... on foot, on bicycle, by kayak, by car, by sailboat, or just stay put and enjoy the view!

We'll provide all the information you need about the house. Although it is off-grid, it is VERY user-friendly. You can be as involved as you like in its monitoring, or just realize that it is close to a normal house.

The Concept House has received the following awards: