Dr. John and Abigail Chambers House

A 1939 Tudor Revival home thoughtfully renewed. Original character meets contemporary design – framed by garden views inspired by shakkei, or “borrowed scenery.” 

This Tudor-Revival style home was designed by Vancouver architect Robert Berwick of Sharp & Thompson Architects. Research by the homeowner uncovered the original drawings, contracts, and building specs. The contractor, Hayman &  Philip, was paid $6,605.95 to build the house.

When the current homeowners moved in on September 10, 2001, the house remained  remarkably true to its original character and structure. By 2016, however, exterior signs of deterioration needed addressing. One of the homeowners, an interior designer, thoughtfully developed a concept for the renovation, maintaining the original design intent of the house and its dialogue with the garden, following the design principle of shakkei, or “borrowed scenery.”

The extensive retrofit began in mid-2018. Walls were taken down to the framing to accommodate the required R-20 insulation, and all plumbing, wiring, and plaster were replaced. New wood windows, finished in striking black, retain the character and position of the originals, while framing the views. Much of the flooring is original, as are the elegant staircase, the Philippine mahogany fireplace surround, and the French doors.

A dramatic rear addition opens the house to the serenity of the garden. In her concept for the design, the homeowner drew inspiration from Frank Lloyd Wright: “Nature is the inspiration for all ornamentation.”