Where Architecture Meets Art

Much like fine art, fine architecture is transformative, particularly when envisioned to connect harmoniously with the natural environment. 2947 High Point Drive does exactly that. Through its intentional design principles, the impactful construction of the home integrates seamlessly with every element of its earthy surroundings. Perched high above the Whistler Valley in the prestigious, luxury estate-neighbourhood of Kadenwood, the residence is dramatically cantilevered off the side of Whistler mountain. The resulting panoramic views span from the captivating pinks and oranges of the alpenglow on the north horizon to the breathtaking sunsets that fade away towards the southwest.

From every vantage point, it quickly becomes obvious that each component of the home’s design was carefully considered with meticulous attention to the characteristics of the landscape. The mastermind behind this design was Don Gurney, Principle of Openspace Architecture, a boutique architectural and interior design practice out of North Vancouver. Anchored in the firm’s methodology, the architectural vision for the residence was driven by a deep respect for the relationships between people, nature, and the built environment. “There’s something remarkable that happens when a home communicates and breathes with the nature that surrounds it,” describes Gurney of the firm’s defining principles.

The orientation of the home, angled on the diagonal lines of the lot, carefully considers the expansive lake views towards the valley below. A mountain-inspired waterfall feature trickles quietly between the private hot tub and pool, also set deliberately against the picturesque Alta Lake View. meanwhile the placement of the primary bedroom faces southwest to meet the sunset. “Ahead of the build, the team from Openspace would come and just sit with the site,” described licensed realtor Dani O’Neill of John Ryan Personal Real Estate. “The architects would be perched atop scaffolding within the cascading landscape, connecting with how the lights meets the earth.” The impact on the landscape itself is minimal, while maximizing the space of the 20,128 square foot lot.

2947 High Point Drive, the fifth of many Kadenwood projects for Openspace, is a reflection of what the firm describes as a commitment to creating projects that do not depend upon fleeting styles or trends, but are built upon warmth, timelessness, and quality. Constructed by West Vancouver’s Bradner Homes in 2009, the High Point Drive residence is exemplary of this timelessness, seemingly built ahead of its time, both inside and out. As described in the Openspace ethos, “living with natural materials and fostering a connection to nature allows time to rest amidst the larger order of things.”

Moving towards the interior of the residence, the home’s sense of entry has pronounced significance. With a multi-storey raw stone facade framing the immense, modern pivot door, the home opens to a breathtaking built-in work of art, integral to the architectural direction. A Mur Lumière defines the entrance hall. This translucent sculptural wall installation was created from resin, pigment, and found materials by artist Francois Chapuis, a painter and sculptor who was commissioned after WWII to restore the stained-glass windows of churches. Beyond this statement art piece, an open concept dominates the expansive interior floor plan with a simple and timeless sophistication evoked by the chalet-style timber frame ceilings, soaring over 20 feet high. Centering the space is a floor-to-ceiling gas fireplace finished with an opulent gold leaf exterior.

It is throughout this unparalleled living space that fine art collides with fine architecture, conjuring a delicate, calculated balance between the built and natural environments.

Architect: Openspace Architecture, Don Gurney

Interiors: Openspace Architecture, North Vancouver

Builder: Bradner Homes, West Vancouver