When a realtor says "Come and build your dream home" in reference to an old abode, you can be pretty sure that the house is a teardown. But when Brian Sevy and Michael Richardson scoped out this place in Delta, B.C., they thought the opposite. They wanted to save the circa 1967 house and bring it back to its original glory, before someone else ripped it down. "It was worn out," says Brian (left).

Although the house was in serious disrepair, Brian and Michael, a designer, loved the cross of midcentury and west coast modern style. They recognized its unique potential, and bought it the day they saw it.
Formal dining room Exposed-joist skylights provide a light show in the dining room, which features a wall of maple siding that mirrors the cedar exterior, effectively turning the look and feel of the house inside out. The vintage "Drugs" pharmacy sign adds a dynamic touch.
Dining room Instead of splurging on a set of authentic midcentury dining chairs, the couple chose these sleek reproductions. However, an original George Nelson Bubble Lamp - the room's focal point - was a non-negotiable accent.
Living room The modest profile of the modern sectional and chairs allows for unobstructed views through the windows. Homeowner Michael says, "People often don't associate a large, late '60s house with great architecture."
Room divider The main living zones are separated by partial walls, which lend order to the space while keeping things casual. The wall-to-wall industrial-style carpeting was selected to reflect architect John Kay's original 1967 flooring specifications.
Kitchen Much of the lofty space is illuminated from above via the original skylights. A slim vertical window looks out on the street side, enabling residents to see who has pulled into the drive. White countertops, upper cabinets and stools balance the medium wood tones.
Bedroom Patterned toss cushions inject soft colour into the bright master bedroom, which comes complete with a sexy corner fireplace. Classic pieces, like the signature Eileen Gray glass side table and a vintage wooden dresser, set the tone in this modern haven.
Bathroom The couple had access to the original blueprints and interior specifications, and took their cues from the blueprints to make the house feel original - right down to the floor plan, colours, carpeting, trim and grasscloth wallcovering, albeit with upgraded electrical and plumbing.
Garden The deck is set up so the interior entertaining areas on the main level open onto it. The dark furniture retains heat during the day, extending stays on cooler summer evenings when the owners use it most. Homeowner Brian Sevy says, "To us, this house felt like going into an Arthur Erickson or even a Frank Lloyd Wright house. It had that kind of character indoor-outdoor feel."