(Top) A vintage Nelson Bubble lamp over the dining table is one of the few items that survived the reno. Miniature wall tiles and a faucet from Paini keep things modern and clean in a cool blue bathroom (right). Harold Klunder’s vivid self-portrait enlivens an otherwise monochromatic living room (left).

A modern custom-built sandstone fireplace by Radius Millwork contrasts with the blackened bricks that show the home’s old soul (top). In the kitchen, a custom counter and Fritz Hansen barstools create an impromptu homework space; a narrow window frames a select landscape view (right). Slabs of raised concrete create a levitating pathway toward the front entrance (left).

A massive sliding wall divides the living area (to the left) from a broad outdoor balcony that overlooks the North Vancouver neighbourhood. But interior spaces can play that game, too: a study (to the right) can be closed off by a hidden, sliding panel embedded pocket-style in the wall. But the smartest move of all is achieved with a large skylight over the staircase that draws loads of sunlight down into the lower floor.