Some considerations to make when designing a home for a young family: durable materials. Storage space. Personal touches. And, most importantly, versatility. When Peter Rose Architecture and Stephanie Brown Inc. took on this new Vancouver build, top of mind was how the clients—a young family—would grow and change in the years to come. The modern farmhouse vision needed to be both functional and dynamic for the kids. But that doesn’t mean the grown-ups were neglected (keep reading for the basement lounge and wine cellar).

Photos by Janis Nicolay.

The front entry is the first introduction to the colour palette: black and white, with warm cognac details. A slender console table and stools from Serena and Lily vignette provide storage space for those out-and-about essentials.
In the kitchen, a graphic backsplash in Panda white marble makes a striking statement. It’s paired with plain white countertops from Caesarstone.

 

There’s three different kinds of cabinets (white, black and wood) in this space, but thanks to careful design, they blend in seamlessly.  “I think the reason that it works is that there is repetition,” says Brown. The black cabinets work with the backsplash, the white with the countertops, and the wood with the leather bar stools form West Elm. “Even though there are three different cabinet finishes, the palette is the same,” says the designer.
The living area directly opposite the kitchen sports the same black painted shiplap used to craft the stove hood. Built-in shelves provide plenty of room for family photos, and incorporate a pair of windows to let in extra sunshine.
Where most homes place a little-used sitting room, this kid-oriented abode has a playroom. The little black sofa has a trundle bed pull-out for sleepovers, and the desk stands ready for arts and crafts.

 

Functional built-in storage will help the space evolve as the family grows. “The room is meant to transition as needed into an office or study,” says Brown.
The dining area brings the drama: black panelling is dotted with massive gold decorative bowls from Once a Tree. “We didn’t just want a piece of art, we wanted something more fun that felt sculptural—these are a cool installation,” says the designer.

 

Vaulted ceilings and picture windows create an airy vibe in the primary bedroom, and woven wood Roman shades and sheer drapery add warmth and dimension.
The clients’ daughter’s room has a pretty floral feature wall—but not forever. “They’re super easy, cost effective, and you can just peel them off when you’re over that look,” says the designer.
It’s sports central in the son’s room. “Dad and son are hardcore football fans, so we played on that theme,” says the designer.  Like the flower wall decals, the wrought iron football sculpture and framed prints are personal touches that can be modified later in life.
And finally, the basement. A glass-panelled wine wall shows off the couple’s collection, and a big TV is ready to share game night friends and family.

Originally published November 2021

Alyssa Hirose

Alyssa Hirose

Alyssa Hirose is a Vancouver-based writer, editor, illustrator and comic artist. Her work has been featured in Vancouver magazine, Western Living, BCBusiness, Avenue, Serviette, Geist, BCLiving, Nuvo, Montecristo, The Georgia Straight and more. Her beats are food, travel, arts and culture, style, interior design and anything dog-related. She publishes a daily autobiographical comic on Instagram at @hialyssacomics.