A Vancouver Special house design is typically characterized by a two- or three-story rectilinear design. These homes have no garages and feature a symmetrical façade. There are various types of these house designs that help to define the Vancouver skyline, such as the post and beam design, split-level design, traditional design, and modern design. Types of Vancouver Special House Designs
Post and beam designs are one of the most popular Vancouver Special house designs. This style of architecture involves raising a structure into the air using detailed engineering calculations. Buildings are made up of posts, beams, and joists that are attached by bolts or screws. The construction is designed to be lightweight and can usually be seen in clear-span buildings, such as indoor tennis courts or horse arenas.Vancouver Special Post and Beam Designs
Split-level house designs are those where different levels or areas of the home are connected by a series of half-levels. In these types of designs, stairs are used to transition between levels and the home may have partial basements or lofts. Vancouver Specials often opt for split-level designs as they are cost effective and can be adapted to fit many different lifestyles.Vancouver Special Split-level Designs
Modern Vancouver Special house designs are those that feature the less-is-more idea, where minimalism is at the forefront. These designs feature clean, sleek lines, plenty of windows, and a focus on natural light. Open floor plans are common, which helps to blur the line between interior and exterior living spaces.Modern Vancouver Special House Designs
Contemporary Vancouver Special house designs merge the lines between different periods of design and uses many of the latest materials and technology. This style typically features large windows, brighter colors, and well-lit spaces. While modern designs tend to be somewhat minimalistic, contemporary designs are often more complex and feature various elements that might not be expected for a Vancouver Special.Contemporary Vancouver Special House Designs
Traditional Vancouver Special house designs are those that take a more classic approach to the exterior and interior of the home. These designs offer a more timeless style that is often characterized by larger columns, symmetrical exteriors, and shutters. Many traditional designs also feature more intricate detailing, such as crown molding, wainscoting, and built-ins.Traditional Vancouver Special House Designs
Ranch-style Vancouver Special house designs tend to be one-story homes, usually with a low-pitched roof. This style is often characterized by large windows, sliding glass doors, open floor plans, and large outdoor living areas. These homes are designed with a minimalistic approach in mind, and tend to have a warm and inviting aesthetic.Ranch-style Vancouver Special House Designs
Craftsman-style Vancouver Special house designs typically feature natural materials, such as wood, stone, and brick. While these homes are often two-story structures, there are also one-story designs that have a low-pitched, gable roof with eave overhangs. A defining feature of these homes is the large porches, which are typically found at the front or back entrance of the home.Craftsman-style Vancouver Special House Designs
Minimalist Vancouver Special house designs are those that are designed to have a more streamlined look and feel. These homes feature contemporary touches, such as large windows or doors, flat or low-pitched roofs, and asymmetrical facades. These designs often use minimal materials and focus on light and airy interiors.Minimalist Vancouver Special House Designs
Industrial-style Vancouver Special house designs are those that incorporate more of an urban look and feel. These designs often combine exposed structural elements, such as bridges, pipes, and railway tracks. Industrial-style homes also tend to feature metal accents and fixtures, an open floor plan, and an overall utilitarian aesthetic.Industrial-style Vancouver Special House Designs
Loft-style Vancouver Special house designs are those that take inspiration from the industrial look. Lofts are typically open-concept living spaces that often use exposed ceilings, pipes, and beams as accents. These designs also feature lots of natural light, large windows, and basic furnishing and decor. Loft-style Vancouver Special House Designs