Inspired by the lush forests, spectacular ocean, and rugged mountains that surround it, the Isleview was born of designer Negar Ghorashi’s desire to not just maintain this stunning natural beauty, but to enhance it in every possible way.
In constructing her own West Vancouver home, Ghorashi saved a 50-year-old Lewis post-and-beam residence from the wrecking ball—considered a “tear down”—while lovingly peeling back decades of paint and drywall to expose its original splendor.
A discreet addition grew out of that renewal process; one aimed to minimize its impact on the long-neglected site. A conscious decision was made to retain virtually all of the old growth trees and shrubs, and not blast the natural bedrock, in order to avoid displacing the eagles, songbirds, and small mammals that inhabited the area.
By respecting and restoring the existing site and structure, this stirring update on the mid-century modern home embraces the lot’s natural topography, with every corner taking advantage of the incredible views of Howe Sound.
Practically every detail of this renovation was fashioned to preserve these breathtaking vistas, from the 60-foot span of floor-to-ceiling glazing in the living room, to the translucent bar stretching along the kitchen island. Perched slightly higher, the master bedroom resembles a private tree house; glass-walled on two sides, which makes it ideal for winter storm watching.
In response to the gloomy grey days typical to the Pacific Northwest, Ghorashi kept the colour palette warm, sanding back the structural beams to their original natural grain cedar, and selecting Acacia flooring for its warm hue and dynamic look.
In the Isleview, Ghorashi has perfectly captured the essence of the west coast, its unique energy, and unparalleled beauty. She has also created a sanctuary; a rural retreat that allows visitors to soak up the calming feeling of the landscape around it.