Barry Downs was undoubtedly one of the most influential architects to come out of B.C., pioneering the West Coast Modern style that is so prevalent in the Pacific Northwest today. After more than 100 groups toured a West Vancouver home he designed in 1970, the property ultimately sold for $2.45 million—and spent only four days on the market. Even more striking: the buyer made an all-cash, subject-free offer, with possession set for just two weeks after the sale.
“Even in a more selective market, homes that are priced right, move-in ready and thoughtfully presented can still generate tremendous excitement,” said Elliott Chun, a realtor at The Partners Real Estate.
The property
- Type: Mid-century West Coast Modern
- Neighbourhood: Westmount, West Vancouver
- Beds: 4
- Baths: 4
- Square footage: 3,707
- Year built: 1970
- Listing price: $2,398,000
- Selling price: $2,450,000
- Year built: 1970
- Sold by: The Partners Real Estate
“One of the most meaningful details is that the original owner still fondly remembers standing with Barry Downs in the driveway, imagining how the home would sit on the land and how Turner Creek could become a focal point of the design,” said Chun. “Downs was known for putting nature first and allowing the landscape to guide a home’s placement, form and flow.”
With the creek running through the centre of the property, the house feels like a complement to the local scenery, rather than an intrusion. Some highlights of the interior are a cozy built-in den, a sunken living room with a stunning view of the surrounding greenery and ocean. “The result is a residence that feels deeply connected to its setting, with a natural progression between the interior spaces and the surrounding landscape,” said Chun.
As an older property (almost 60 years old), a few updates were needed to get it in tip-top shape before putting it on the market. Renovations included beautifying the kitchen and bathrooms, in addition to replacing the original carpeting. Chun said they wanted potential homebuyers to see multiple possibilities for the house: “They could comfortably enjoy the home as it was and renovate gradually, or reimagine certain spaces to suit their own vision.”
The sale
Beyond the renovations, Chun and Derek Grech, founder of The Partners, wanted to ensure there were eyes on the listing even before the official launch. That, of course, meant taking to social media.
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“It was a rare opportunity that buyers immediately recognized,” said Chun. Over 100 visitors toured the property on July 26, and the sellers quickly received numerous offers. “By pricing it appropriately and presenting that potential clearly, we were able to attract significant interest and achieve a strong result,” said Chun.
