Photos: Inside a Sleek Black-and-Marble False Creek Penthouse

Simplicity gets a luxurious twist in a stunning False Creek condo that takes its design cues from the tech world.

It’s often been said that people start to resemble their pets, but occasionally the same can be said of their homes, too. In the case of David and Shauna Jeffries, their penthouse is reflective of David’s job in the computing world: there’s a decidedly tech vibe that permeates the space. Clean white lines, efficient detail, the sparest of parts, which, while they serve as a quiet respite from busy workdays, are also a virtual mirror. Here, art imitates his life.

When purchasing the unit, the Jeffries had a clear decor code in mind: a modern, unembellished shell programmed with quiet, masculine luxury. To execute their vision, they enlisted designer Adam Becker to transform the 1,900-square-foot condo and its 1,200-square-foot rooftop deck with stunning views of False Creek.

“I wanted to create something minimal and clean,” says Becker. “A black and white canvas with straight lines and no obstruction—he doesn’t need more distraction when he gets home from work.” Becker’s first task was to take the space down from three bedrooms to two, remove the wall between the kitchen and dining room, and design an office.

Becker is quick to point out that demolition is his favourite part of the job. “Until I do it, I don’t know what’s behind a wall or up in the ceiling, but that’s when I can get really creative.” To wit: an extra two feet of overhead clearance was gained in the front hallway when the ceiling was ripped open, and while piping and ductwork in the kitchen had to stay, the designer carved out a recessed panel that helps add height and airiness. Flanking the marble-clad living room fireplace, a bookshelf and niche were created from some empty pockets behind the wall. “I don’t like to waste space—every inch counts when designing downtown places,” he says.

Minimal material and colour also help create a palette that’s disciplined yet still luxurious. Statuario marble floors and a fireplace wall wrapped in the same material help keep the shell a blank canvas. “I like to stick with one material when I’m designing a place to keep it simple with less distraction—the marble is busy enough.” Becker’s goal is to always keep spaces timeless and primed for art. “I want to create a beautiful gallery,” he explains. “I leave the art to provide the colour—it brings life to a place.”

Much is hidden behind those white walls and sleek floors: a sound system, air conditioning, a downward-draft hood fan next to the sleek induction cooktop. Everything can be activated with a phone—from heating floors to changing the room temperature. The only thing the Lutron RadioRA 2 system didn’t control was the blinds. “Of course, the owner wrote a code for that and now the system talks to the roller shades,” laughs Becker. Here, life imitates the art.

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