Splyce Design was commissioned to create this impressive modern house that is located on a steep site in West Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. This 5,000-square-foot dwelling was designed to capture views of the harbor in one direction and mountains in the other while controlling sightlines to and from the neighbors on either side.
Like the wings of a bird stretched out to protect its young, the two side walls and roof on the south elevation extend far past the exterior walls, providing privacy and large covered decks. These spaces are extensions of the interior and invite various uses throughout the year. The cedar-clad wing walls block any visual distraction of the adjacent properties and focus the view from the interior toward the ocean.
DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECT Splyce Design BUILDER Hart Tipton Construction STRUCTURAL ENGINEER WHM Structural Engineers
The roof structure is undulating and pinwheel-like, resulting in a different slope on each of the four exterior elevations, and consequently, varied ceiling heights on the upper floor interior – low in the bedrooms – high in the circulation zone.
Upon entry into the home, space rises up and momentarily draws attention away from the straight shot ocean view ahead, and upwards towards the wall-to-wall skylight and exposed heavy timber rafters – a stark contrast to the rest of the light-colored materials in the palette.
Two bridges span this section and offer opportunities for spontaneous interaction and play, as family members cross and engage with those below.
While the house is porous, open, and social, it is also nuanced with layers and nooks that provide areas of retreat and solitude. A private office tucked behind the staircase, in the corner of the main floor, can suddenly change character and be part of the adjacent living space by way of an unexpected sliding wall panel.
With framed views of the ocean and mountains, an enlarged stair landing on the upper floor, lined with bookshelves, becomes a natural spot for a one-person library.
What We Love: This modern Vancouver house is a showcase of clean lines and an open-plan layout. A simple, uncluttered design allows the occupants to focus on the views of the ocean. We are especially loving the main bedroom with its expansive wall of sliding glass panels that open out onto a private deck with sweeping water views. The ever-present views of the ocean throughout this home provide a feeling of peace and solitude.
Tell Us: What details in the design of this home do you find most appealing and what would you change if this were your own home? Let us know in the Comments below!
Note: Be sure to check out a couple of other spectacular home tours that we have highlighted here on One Kindesign in the Canadian province of British Columbia: A glass and timber cabin cantilevers off of British Columbia’s serene coast and Gorgeous alpine ski cabin in Whistler with Scandinavian influences.
PHOTOGRAPHER Sama Jim Canzian
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