Every Place Has a Story

Our Missing West Coast Modern Heritage: what were we thinking?

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2895 Newmarket Drive, North Vancouver:


Demolished in 2013

“Steps to Edgemont Village – exceptional location! This three-bedroom Hollingsworth designed rancher has incredible potential to renovate or build new on this 8050 sq. ft. lot. Classic post and beam style w/open living areas including incredible gardens, a large private rear patio off the family room featuring a built in BBQ and a pond. $1,299,000.” Realtor’s ad September 2012.

1950

Fred Thornton Hollingsworth designed this house in 1950. The house was on the Heritage Register because of its post and beam construction and because it was a fine example of West Coast modern architecture in a brief time when it was thought that it was more important to blend a house into its surroundings then impose itself on it.

Fred Hollingsworth House 1950

The house sold, the new owner applied for a demolition permit and within a month the beautiful mid-century house and garden were gone. A couple of months later a For Sale went up again. The new real estate agent waxed on about what a “spectacular opportunity” it was to buy this empty lot.

Built in 1950 demolished 2013Architect Mark Thompson has pre-drawn plans approved for someone’s “dream home” – a 5,000 sq.ft. five-bedroom six-and-a-half bathroom mega house. Seriously can someone explain to me the appeal of so many bathrooms? The lot which was raped of its garden setting and house was immediately put back up for sale for $1,369,000, sending a clear message to developers that a lot is worth $70,000 more if it doesn’t have a heritage house on it.

For more posts see: Our Missing Heritage

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