A Nautical-Themed Home in Vancouver for a Family of Eight
In the prestigious oceanside neighborhood of West Point Grey in Vancouver, Canada, lies a remarkable nautical-themed home designed to accommodate a growing family of eight. Originally built in 2012, the home is nestled behind a tall Portuguese Laurel hedge and features deep, embracing verandas that give it a stately, Southern charm. The location offers stunning views of the ocean and mountains, with the masts of the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club visible just a block away.
Expanding the Dream Home
As the family expanded, the couple chose not to relocate but to enlarge their existing home by acquiring the property next door. This allowed them to build a more spacious residence for themselves and their six children—two girls and four boys aged between four and sixteen. They enlisted architect Eric Stine to design the expansion and landscape architect Paul Sangha to create an all-new outdoor area featuring a pool and various living spaces. Interior designer Kelly Deck was brought in to transform the 8,000 sq ft home, which includes seven bedrooms and eight baths, into a timeless, family-centric haven.
A Vision of Timeless Family Living
The homeowners desired a blend of antiques and modern elements, aiming for a family-first home that exuded both style and comfort. Inspired by the practical and timeless details of wooden sailboats, Deck crafted an interior that reflects the sun-kissed wood, fastened details, and colors of rope, sail, and sea. This approach fostered a relaxed coastal ambiance throughout the home.
Drawing Inspiration from the Hamptons
Deck also drew inspiration from a friend’s historical home in the Hamptons and images of former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis during her sailing trips. This influenced the home’s chic, restrained style, making it feel lighthearted, youthful, and airy. The design team aimed to imbue the home with the presence and substance of a historical residence, utilizing intricate finishing carpentry to create a sense of enduring charm.
Enhancing the Nautical Narrative
From the main level’s entry hall, raised panels, and shiplap on crisp white walls enhance the home’s nautical theme. Wide plank, whitewashed white oak flooring keeps the interior bright and inviting. Stained glass windows with light blue diamonds representing each family member adorn the panelled stairwell, where antique frames showcase family photos on a double-height gallery wall.
Creating Unique Interior Spaces
The living room features gauze draperies that flow with the seaside breeze, filling the space with natural light and a mix of timeless and comfortable furnishings. Layered rugs, indoor plants, and artistic decor blend antique finds with modern treasures. The main kitchen’s provincial blue island is complemented by matching La Cornue kitchenware, Moroccan tile backsplash, and alluring blue cabinetry in the butler’s pantry. Unlacquered and aged brass hardware adds a touch of historical authenticity.
Personalizing the Bedrooms
The children’s bedrooms, located on the upper level, are personalized with coastal-inspired palettes. The two youngest children’s rooms are particularly notable—one inspired by the Beverly Hills Hotel’s color scheme, and the other featuring an under-ocean theme with matching wallpaper and draperies sourced from Paris.
This nautical-themed home in Vancouver’s West Point Grey is a testament to blending style, comfort, and family living. With careful design and thoughtful details, it captures the essence of a timeless, coastal-inspired residence. Whether you’re inspired by home improvement, interior design, or simply looking for ideas to personalize your living space, this home offers a wealth of inspiration for creating a stylish and functional family home.