Monday, April 22, 2019

Notre Dame Cathedral rebuild raises issues regarding many heritage restorations, including West Vancouver's Vinson House

     This week I wrote in the Vancouver Courier about the future restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral and a discussion that took place at West Vancouver City Hall regarding a proposed Heritage Revitalization Agreement (HRA) for a 1954 Ron Thom House. https://www.vancourier.com/opinion/notre-dame-cathedral-restoration-raises-issue-of-modern-modification-1.23798423
     At issue is how much should a heritage building, whether it's one of the world's most famous buildings, or a modest house overlooking Park Royal, be allowed to be altered over time. A similar issue has arisen with regard to our West Vancouver Vinson House.
Should a future home buyer be allowed to paint all the woodwork in this heritage house off-white?
     The 1913 Vinson House www.vinsonhousecottages.com  has been completely restored including the replacement of original pearlized push-button light switches with modern replicas.
      A new sprinkler system has been carefully concealed within the beamed ceilings and new electrical and mechanical systems have been installed, along with state-of-the-art telecommunications and security systems.
     While the heritage look of the kitchen has been retained, it too has been completely rebuilt with modern cabinets and appliances.
      This heritage house is still for sale. While this may no doubt be due in part to market conditions, it is also due to the reality that West Vancouver homebuyers do not appear to appreciate 100-year old houses with elaborate mahogany beams and wainscoting as much as those yearning for similar homes in Shaughnessy and Kitsilano.

     One potential buyer said he would consider buying the house provided he would be allowed to paint all the dark wood off-white. While it may come to this if the house does not sell soon, one hopes there will be a buyer who appreciates the distinctive interiors and craftsmanship of yesteryear.