St. James Residence In West Vancouver By Randy Bens

Randy Bens, a Vancouver-based architect, provides a high level of customized and detailed service through his custom single-family residences, and select commercial projects. The St. James Residence, designed for a family of five, is a perfect example of his commitment to deliver beautiful spaces that enhance the lives of his clients.

Located on a flat lot in the British Properties area of West Vancouver, the defining character of this property is its H-shaped layout, which divides the exterior space into two courtyards: one to the north, which contains a moss garden, and one to the south that provides an entertainment area with paved surfaces and a reflecting pool.

Visually striking with its strong horizontal and vertical lines, the H-shaped outline creates a dynamic relationship between the interior and exterior spaces. The upper floor aligns with the center of the H, and cantilevers at both sides to create stunning east- and west-facing porches.

Image Courtesy of Randy Bens Architect

For the exterior, materials used include cement panel with exposed fasteners and stained cedar siding; the latter, in particular, is a complimentary response to the rawness of the natural surroundings.

Designed with equal importance to the interior, which plays to the bare-bones trend currently seen in the condo market, the courtyards act as extensions of the indoor living space. They mediate the space between residence and the surrounding wilderness. The ponds and gardens in the courtyard bring the natural world into the habitable space, while also serving as part of a gradual transition from the man-made structure into the natural, untamed areas of the property.