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November 13, 2023
Dreaming of a heritage home is common, and I was no different. I grew up in a century-home in Ontario, filled with antique furniture, and I hoped to live in a similar style. But, life in Vancouver, with its high housing costs, led my growing family to a modern townhouse. This practical choice turned into a creative project: adding warmth and charm to this new, contemporary space.
Turning Disadvantages into Opportunities
Modern living spaces come with their own set of challenges, but these can be seen as chances to inject personal flair. Our multi-level home provided the perfect canvas to experiment with different themes and colors on each floor, adding distinct character. Balancing these elements was key to maintaining a harmonious feel throughout.
Modern Meets Vintage
In our townhouse, we wanted to honour its modern design while adding touches of the past. We found Mid-Century Modern and pared-back designs from the Arts and Crafts era, worked well for this. The simple lines and timeless looks fit nicely with our home's architecture, while also bringing in a bit of history. We used color and texture to make each space unique yet cohesive.
Textures and Lighting for Warmth
To make our modern space feel cozy, we mixed different materials and lighting. Soft fabrics like wool and linen, along with carefully chosen lights, created a welcoming atmosphere. This was a shift from the usual stark and bright feel of overhead pot lighting.
Crafting a Personal Narrative
Our goal was to make our townhouse tell our family's story, blending the new with the old. Each item in our home, whether it's an antique from a market or a custom-made piece, adds to our story, making our place uniquely ours.
In the end, by embracing our townhouse's modern style and carefully adding elements from the past, we've created a home that’s both modern and full of history. It's a true reflection of our life in British Columbia.
Photo Credit
Interior design by Tamara Lancaster