An Architectural Treasure

In a New Westminster neighbourhood known for its coveted historic homes, this majestic 1911 Queen’s Park beauty is a genuine work of art.

With more than 4,400-square feet of living space over four floors, this exquisite home features six bedrooms, three full and one half baths, extensive original millwork throughout, high ceilings, leaded stained glass, a gourmet kitchen with gas range and large central island with granite surfacing, spectacular period lighting with art glass shades, original wood burning fireplace, all new electrical and plumbing, new roof, gutters and gutter boards, and so much more.

This masterpiece is the work of architect Edmund John (E.J.) Boughen, who designed a number of homes in New Westminster between 1911 and 1913.

Built at the end of the Edwardian era, Boughen’s design reflects the transition into the Arts and Crafts style of architecture with its big, square columns and solid hand rails on the exterior. Also noteworthy are the Anglo-Japanese influences, including the “bottle opener” brackets under the first storey soffits along with the front and back porches and balcony. The steeply pitched main roof with several lesser roofs — all slightly turned up — loosely resemble a Japanese pagoda.

If Boughen had a signature trademark, it would be his extensive use of leaded stained glass — this home boasts 22 original leaded stained glass windows (plus, you’ll find two more in the 3-car detached garage).

From the attic gable on the east side of the house to the sunrise picture window and leaded stained glass transom in the living room to the trio of Glasgow Rose leaded stained glass in the dining room’s bay. Back in the day, these artful displays could be purchased from catalogues and this home showcases an array of stunning windows, which also includes an. “Olympic Torch” oval window between the two front bedrooms. Even the pocket doors separating the living and dining rooms have a complementary landscape leaded stained glass panels.

You’ll find extensive never-been-painted millwork throughout, a rare find for a home of this vintage. The exceptional craftsmanship of the era includes fir board and baton panelling in the front hall and stairway, coffered ceiling in the dining room, plate rail and mantel, along with egg and dart and dentil mouldings. All the baseboards, window and door trims are made of fir and have an elongated radius curve on one edge. The large principal rooms on the main floor also feature white maple inlaid in the baseboards, door and window casings.

The second storey features a large central hall with four good size bedrooms — each with a walk-in closet — and a beautiful new 4-piece period-inspired bathroom complete with a walk-in shower, clawfoot soaker tub, pill box toilet tank and radiant heated floors. All four bedrooms have a leaded stained glass dropped lily panel in the upper sash window and the two front rooms share access to a covered balcony with each having its own half-glass wood panelled door with the original screen doors.

The large primary bedroom features a new 3-piece ensuite with walk-in shower and radiant heated floor.

Head up to the third storey and you’ll find even more living space, including a fifth bedroom featuring three closets and a triangular 4-light wooden mullioned window.

This tucked away space makes for the perfect media room, office or additional family room. And, don’t worry about temperature control, as this level is equipped with a heat pump keeping you cool in the warmer months and cosy come winter.

A custom fir storage bench is the perfect spot to sit and take in views of Washington State and the Olympic peninsula, which can be seen from the large double casement 15-light wooden mullioned window.

This one-of-a-kind residence holds pride of place on a 9,129-square-foot lot just steps from the entrance to Queen’s Park.

A mature landscape envelopes the home. Set back and off the street, walk up the front stairs to an amazing 29’ wide covered veranda with southeast exposure. An extension of the main floor living space, this front porch was made for gathering. Look up and you’ll see incredibly rare intricate millwork finishing this outdoor living space.

The backyard is an entertainer’s dream featuring a spacious 972 sq. ft stone patio with more than enough room for separate dining and conversation areas. Plus, you’ll find beautiful mature gardens and lush green grass.

There is also a split-level side entrance door providing easy access to the home’s lower level and a beautiful one-bedroom, one bathroom suite that is perfect for extended family, the nanny or use it as a mortgage helper. You’ll also find additional basement space for the main house that is perfect for that home gym or hobby room.

This exquisite home is arguably one of Metro Vancouver’s finest examples of Edwardian architecture. Recognized by Heritage BC with an Outstanding Award for Distinguished Service, the home’s current owners are known for their meticulous work and attention to detail. Their dedication to the preservation and restoration of city’s heritage stock is unparalleled.

If you’re looking for an amazing family home in a walkable, established community-oriented neighbourhood with quiet tree-lined streets and lovely homes — all of it close to schools, shops, services, transit and just steps from one of Metro Vancouver’s best parks — don’t miss this opportunity.

Showings by appointment only – call Lori at 604-312-0738 or email lori@lorifralic.com for more information about this property.