The architectural design of the property took advantage of the corner exposure and surrounding mature landscape to create an estate home, paying homage to the unique residential architecture in the surrounding area known as Second Shaughnessy.
Project Name: Marguerite Residence
Studio Name: John Henshaw Architect Inc
Project size: 6700 ft2
Completion date: 2020
Location: Vancouver, Canada
Photography: Andrew Latreille
The front facade of the home is stately in appearance, inspired by the extensive collection of Craftsman and Victorian styles homes throughout Vancouver. Details such as fish-scale shingles, Tudor trim boards, pebble-dashed stucco, stone lintel header over windows, and a substantially sized front porch are all contributing details to create a grand appearance the homeowner was aiming for.
The front yard landscape takes advantage of existing mature trees, with newly planted materials to show seasonal colours, and creates a picture frame for the architecture. A small pond has been installed by the pathway to the back yard for both sound and visual interest.
The back yard design takes advantage of the large property with southwest exposure with a substantial and private outdoor space. A resistance pool with a hot tub is placed on the south side for sun exposure to extend the usable season.
Both the hot tub and the pool has their own in-ground automatic covers which are utilized when not in use for energy-saving and safety. Pool users have quick access to the change/shower area in the garden room next to the garage. The planting area is strategically positioned at side yards, in front of the garage/garden room and back of the pool area for visual interest and softens the hardscape. Glass handrails are specified for basement access to minimize backyard visual obstruction. The entire property is hedged and fenced for both privacy and security to avoid un-monitored pool users.
Taking advantage of local zoning bylaws allowance, a 30-foot long veranda was designed and outfitted with ample lighting and a built-in sound system for all-season usage and enjoyment. There is also easy view access to the pool area from the veranda to keep watch on children playing in the pool. Bi-folding doors strategically placed immediately by the main kitchen/eating area for indoor-outdoor access to the veranda. The outdoor barbeque and dining area, located just outside of the main dining room, is accessible with a pair of french doors, providing seamless indoor-outdoor entertaining.
As part of the backyard patio is set above cellar living space, 2″ thick, large format porcelain tiles on pedestals have been specified overall with cast-in-place concrete borders around the pool, basement well, and planting area. The porcelain tiles are frost proof, easy to maintain, provide easy access for waterproofing below, and can be replaced by pieces as required.
