Stunning Modern Farmhouse Emerges: A Layered Architectural Marvel in North Vancouver

In North Vancouver, British Columbia, two adjacent plots were merged into a singular level area that accommodates a primary residence, a pool house, and a greenhouse. This layout was crafted by Garret Cord Werner Architects, with interior design by HB Design, landscaping by Donohoe Living Landscapes, and construction by Meister Construction. The design concept integrates architecture, interior styling, and landscape into a seamless continuum, where each component is interdependent, and the transition between indoor and outdoor spaces is intentionally obscured.

The developed area spans approximately 6,100 square feet, dividing into a 4,235 square foot three-story main house and a 1,870 square foot pool house. These buildings are linked not by corridors or covered walkways but through a landscaped path that acts as a natural connector. Opening the interior gates reveals a direct view through the properties towards the North Shore mountains. The greenhouse and vegetable beds are oriented towards a communal lane, and the planting along the boulevard spills over the property boundary, softening the edge between private space and public roadway.

Ryan Donohoe, the founder of Donohoe Living Landscapes, intentionally designed the outdoor spaces to be inclusive rather than exclusive. He chose to integrate the laneway into the overall landscape design to connect, rather than separate, the property from its neighborhood. Instead of traditional fencing, the design utilizes layered hedging and artistic metal barriers that offer privacy while still providing glimpses into the property.

The chosen materials for the garden echo the understated elegance of the architectural design. The pool area features basalt stone and concrete, while red cedar fencing introduces a touch of warmth. Metallic elements like powder-coated steel are used for pergolas, gates, and fire features, all finished in a bronze tone that subtly changes depending on the viewing angle, blending with the bricks and surrounding greenery.

The landscaping is designed to evolve over time, with native plants predominantly used across the site, and a more diverse mix around the pool area that includes Japanese maples, tassel ferns, and various grasses. These will grow to create a dense, serene environment that contrasts with the precise hardscaping, offering a cooling effect and a retreat from the fast pace of modern life.

The architectural theme of the main residence and pool house features a modern farmhouse look, with brick, wood slats, and large windows. HB Design’s Shannon Bradner and Jennifer Heffel handled the interior design, focusing on softening the architectural firmness with layers of natural materials and muted colors that echo the local scenery. The interior spaces are distinguished by their textural variety, with porcelain, quartzite, and selected woods that play with light and complement the exterior.

The process of selecting these materials took several months, ensuring that each element would age gracefully and remain beyond fleeting trends. Custom-built storage solutions are integrated into the overall design, reducing clutter and emphasizing the natural finishes.

For Meister Construction, the emphasis during construction was on adhering closely to the original design vision to create a space that is tranquil, cohesive, and built to last. Gordon Gildemeister, the owner, highlighted the importance of collaboration among different teams to refine details and ensure the build quality without needing to make significant adjustments during construction.

Choices about materials and construction methods were heavily influenced by the need for durability, especially considering the moist, temperate climate of the Pacific Northwest. The construction approach focused on effective management of water and structural movement to ensure the home remains low-maintenance and performs well over time.

Altogether, the project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to West Coast living, emphasizing durability, the interplay of light, and a fluid connection with the outdoors. In Donohoe’s words, it reflects a lifestyle that values outdoor interaction as much as indoor living, encapsulating a modern take on West Coast traditions.