A modern Vancouver townhouse is a perfect fit for first-time homeowners Patricia Lau, John Rodriguez and their baby August.

When Patricia Lau and John Rodriguez were preparing to move into their newly purchased Vancouver townhouse in 2012, it was a race against time. They wanted the space to be ready to live in before their son, August (now two years old), was born. The couple had been living in a furnished one-bedroom rental apartment before buying their first home, and they needed virtually everything. They had always loved the contemporary furniture, art and accessories at the modern decor shop Provide, so it was natural for them to seek help from owners Robert Quinnell and David Keeler, as well as on-staff designer Megan Harrow. 

 

The 1,160-square-foot, two-bedroom townhouse was just a few years old and had good clean lines, so it only needed a bit of tweaking to suit the fun-loving couple, both Internet marketing consultants. For instance, Some awkward built-ins in the open-concept living area were torn out, and simple white shelves installed in their place. All the walls, doors, ceilings and trim were painted in a fresh coat of Benjamin Moore’s Oxford White. “It’s a warm white with no grey tones. It shows off all the pieces beautifully,” says Robert. Using just one shade throughout the entire home makes everything appear seamless.

 

Bright open-concept living room

Homeowner Patricia Lau's coveted chartreuse Womb chair merits a prime spot in the living room. The sofa was custom made with down-filled cushions and a soft cashmere-blend upholstery. Open shelves in a niche offer storage and display space.

 

Narrow dining table

They splurged and had some furniture, including the narrow dining table and the cozy sofa, custom made to perfectly fit the townhouse. John had to have the Herman Miller dining chairs. 

 

Pendant lights

A new pendant light fixture over the narrow custom dining table gives the space a modern distinction.

 

Smart bedroom storage

The design team squeezed in extra storage wherever possible, such as in the master bedroom, where the mattress lifts up to reveal an extra hiding space below.

 

Refreshing accents

The simple decor accents add colour to the space and bring character to the open-concept.

 

Family time

Homeowners John Rodriguez and Patricia Lau with their son, August.