Nanton House

The Nanton House is a modern brick home located in Vancouver, Canada. Designed for a large multi-generational family, this residence makes a bold statement from its position on a highly visible corner lot next to Vancouver’s Arbutus Greenway. The home comprises a series of large terraces which integrate into a large sloping site, featuring sweeping views westward over Vancouver.

Three floors rise fully above the ground facing the rear yard, while window wells and a large sunken patio bring light deep into the other half of the open floor plan. The design manages to reduce the home’s scale as it appears from the street, while still having a large and open floor plan with direct access to the large rear yard. The roof form is clearly outlined by stepping terraces, positioned to provide an extension of the interior spaces and to take full advantage of the view.

The home's primary entry is positioned on the lower portion of the site, underneath an extensive green roof. The secondary entry is accessed from the high side of the site and is accessed across a steel bridge that overlooks a deep lightwell. The need for a highly durable facade led to a selection of brick which wraps the entire home. This brick provides a beautifully textured backdrop that catches the varying conditions of Vancouver’s unique weather and light. Black metal details wrap the terrace and soffits; metal frames also protrude from double-height windows to highlight their shape, creating playful shadows along the facade that move throughout the day.

Collaborator - Weidemann Architectural
Photography - Andrew Latreille