Volmar and Sally Nordman House (1957)

From “a bit of a box” to a spacious, light-filled Mid-Century Modern showcase.

By Sheilah Harris

Style elements: The strong horizontal lines and close connection to the surrounding landscape are hallmarks of this Mid-Century Modern style, as is the way the front of the house reveals nothing to the street but, upon entering, the visitor is treated to a gradual and delightful reveal of the open and airy space inside.

Architectural significance: Within the historical city of New Westminster, Massey Heights is definitely the new kid on the block. Lots here first went on sale in 1953, eight years after properties in Victory Heights were made available to returning veterans. William Street separates the two neighbourhoods.

What to look for: A knockout feature of the ‘70s redo is the library addition.  The 12’ high red cedar walls and bookshelves are striking enough features, but most captivating is the cozy reading nook tucked under the roof with a wall of windows.

First owners: A young law student named Volmar Nordman was among enthusiastic buyers and builders in the 50s. He and his brother Edwin (a prolific Massey Heights builder) built several houses in this area, including Volmar’s own at 820 York Street, which Volmar designed, built and moved into in 1957 with his new bride, Sally.

Now a Vancouver resident, Volmar describes this first house as “a bit of a box.” In 1970, with a growing family to accommodate, the Nordmans embarked upon an extensive renovation and, with the help of an architect and builder, turned the “box” into the Mid-Century Modern home we see today.

The full story

Within the historical city of New Westminster, Massey Heights is definitely the new kid on the block. Lots here first went on sale in 1953, eight years after properties in Victory Heights were made available to returning veterans. One enthusiastic buyer was a young law student named Volmar Nordman. He built several houses in this area, including 820 York Street, which he designed, built and moved into in 1957 with his new bride, Sally.

In 1970, the Nordmans embarked upon an extensive renovation and, with the help of an architect and builder, turned the “box” into the mid-century modern home we see today. The strong horizontal lines and close connection to the surrounding landscape are hallmarks of the style, as is the way the front of the house reveals nothing to the street but, upon entering, the visitor is treated to a gradual and delightful reveal of the open and airy space inside.

This impressive entryway is part of the 1970 remodel. Originally, the front door was at the entrance to the living room. The new addition enclosed the front garden and created a beautiful atrium, viewed through a wall of 11’ high windows topped with a ceiling of yellow cedar. The roof was also raised in the main hall to accommodate clerestory windows and add yet more light.  Oak floors (recently refinished) replaced wall-to-wall carpeting.

When the front of the house was extended, two small bedrooms were combined to create a serene master suite with private patio. The use of cedar in the ensuite gives it a spa-like atmosphere. In contrast, the main bathroom down the hall is delightfully original, with its pink fixtures and pink and black tiles.

A knockout feature of the ‘70s redo is the library addition.  The 12’ high red cedar walls and bookshelves are striking enough features, but most captivating is the cozy reading nook tucked under the roof with a wall of windows.  What child – or adult – wouldn’t enjoy curling up with a book and a blanket there?

The living room’s red cedar wall was once mirrored on the far side of the dining room as well, and was likely removed for the kitchen renovation.  The second owners, who lived here from 1994 to 2017, are due credit for this gorgeous kitchen with its contemporary references to the home’s many wood features. They also replaced all windows and frames with high quality, energy efficient versions, and extended the depth of the back deck.

The area beyond the kitchen was once the garage, which was enclosed in the ‘60’s.

Downstairs, the home was completely re-renovated by the second owners, who added an enviable gym and bar. The present owners have made their mark with the media room, installing a retractable screen and projector, and creating (hopefully in time for the tour) an interactive coffee table. This third generation of owners looks forward to raising their own family in this timelessly beautiful home.

Thank you to our Sponsor – New Westminster Symphony Orchestra – The NWSO is home to dedicated musicians from all backgrounds and training, providing them with an opportunity to perform with a professionally-directed symphony orchestra. Our policy of “admission by donation” ensures that everyone who enjoys good classical music can attend our concerts.