Elizabeth and William Furness House (1913)

Furness House stands as an excellent example of a Craftsman-style bungalow, designed by E.J. Boughen, the premier architect of Arts and Crafts homes in New West during that era. 

William Furness, the tender for the Lulu Island Bridge, built this home with his wife Elizabeth upon his retirement in 1913. The exterior boasts clapboard siding, Swiss braces beneath the eaves, and a welcoming porch with wide columns.

In the parlour, built-in cabinets, window and door architraves, the mantelpiece, and the beams of the coffered ceiling are made of exquisitely crafted and varnished fir.  Stained-glass windows featuring floral, fruit, seaside, and country scenes (a hallmark of Boughen’s work) grace the interior, reminiscent of his design at the Speck House on 109 Third Avenue. The main floor hallway boasts William Morris poppy print wallpaper, adding a touch of elegance.

The kitchen was enlarged by incorporating one of the original three main floor bedrooms into its space, while still retaining the original pantry. The main-floor entry area features a cozy footprint, perfect for a couple to relax and enjoy the fireplace. Completing the home’s layout are an upstairs bedroom and a finished basement. The basement is not included in the tour.  

The Furness House stands as one of the most outstanding examples of its kind in the lower mainland, thanks to the dedication of both current and previous owners who have chosen to preserve and honor its integrity. 

Article by Catherine Hutson

Presented by:  The Early Heritage Preservationists