Second-generation expertise

The co-owners of Kimberley-based Tyee Log & Timber have more than 30 years' experience

Tyee's co-owners, Rob Wheeler and Carl Lauren, have over 30 years of experience and are second-generation builders. — Photo courtesy Tyee Log and Timber

Tyee Log & Timber based out of Kimberley, B.C., builds beautiful log homes and timber-frame structures. The medium-sized company has a diverse and experienced crew of log and timber-frame builders who pride themselves on their attention to detail and yielding premium-quality handcrafted homes.

Co-owners Rob Wheeler and Carl Lauren have over 30 years of experience and are second-generation builders. The pair are passionate about building and living in naturally produced wood spaces, and they constantly strive to build their homes in the greenest, most energy-efficient way possible.

Wheeler spoke to Kootenay Business about the business and his background.

How did you get into the business?

My father was a builder, so it was around my whole childhood and it's something I always enjoyed as well.

What was your first job?

Peeling logs for my dad. It was very hard work.

What do you like most about your job?

What we build. I love the final product.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Take time in between school and work to travel and do something—something that could be a waste of time but fun.

What is one of your passions outside work?

I love to kayak. I live on the St. Mary River, so that's one of my favourite (rivers) to kayak, but my absolute favourite would have to be the White River. I love kayaking because it's a long ways from work.

What would you be doing if you weren't doing this job?

Probably something similar. I really always have enjoyed construction.