Replace or Renovate?

This family of six had just moved to West Vancouver when we met. Looking for their new home, the question was: Tear down and build new, or renovate an existing house?

The search led us to the answer. We found a wonderful ’60s rancher with the most incredible views, good spaces, sound structure & and lots to fix. Imaginations ablaze, we got to work.

Renovation is a bit of an art. We weave new spaces and details into the language of an existing structure, hoping to marry the spirit of the existing place with its new mandate. Here, that mandate was “Create a warm, easygoing landing spot for a busy family. We want the two of us, our adult children, their partners, and our friends to enjoy time together, retreat in peace, and truly be all of who they are in this house.”

Details including the existing front door, lovingly restored; the dramatic site, the proportions and character of the existing house were preserved, while we added a second storey, garage, and living spaces on three levels. A chunk of bedrock exposed at the basement became the most magical wine cellar, cooled by the mountainside itself.

Image credits: PLACE and Krishna Neale Photography

Special thanks to BODA Construction for exceptional patience, diligence, and attention to detail.