Always a popular event, the Vancouver Heritage Foundation’s annual Vancouver Special House Tour – being held Saturday April 16 – offers three fine examples of the genre, plus two other houses from a similar time period but in different styles.
The Specials include an early example built in 1962 with lots of Mid-Century Modern design inspiration, a late-era 1976 model renovated to suit both the owners and a tenant in a new suite, and an unusual Vancouver Special duplex that seemed too small but was transformed into the perfect home for two growing families.
In addition, the tour takes in a 1958 split-level house that was innovatively renovated. The updating of this house has served as inspiration for others in the area to retain similar buildings, ensuring the character of the neighbourhood remains, and highlighting the opportunity to reuse older homes.
The housing styles of the 1950s through 1980s are a part of Vancouver’s architectural heritage. Their retention maintains the character of our familiar neighbourhoods while offering a sustainable alternative to demolition and building new.
Also on tour is a 1953 bungalow with simple architecture that has been beautifully updated with an elegant mix of vintage and locally designed furniture perfectly suited to the Mid-Century roots of the home.
Each home offers creative design ideas, intriguing architecture from the middle decades and a look into how Vancouverites lived then, and how the homes can work for how we live now.
Join the Vancouver Heritage Foundation on Saturday, April 16 from 1pm until 5pm for the self-guided tour.
For more information or to buy tickets visit www.vancouverheritagefoundation.org or call 604 264 9642.
