When I first moved into this Vancouver bungalow, I knew the living room had good bones—high ceilings, original details, and generous light—but the layout just didn’t feel right. The space was very dark, the fireplace didn’t command the attention it deserved, and the overall flow felt… off.
As a designer, I live with rooms for a while before deciding what they truly need. I pay attention to how I move through them, how the light shifts throughout the day, where my eye naturally lands, and how I want the space to feel. This living room took time. And it was worth every second.
Before & After: Reworking the Layout for Better Flow
The room opens up now. There is a fresh, new feeling in the ‘Parlour’. With original wall panelling in good condition, it made sense to paint over the existing colour. But the real winner is the ceiling. A modern glass chandelier really pops against the white coffered ceiling.
Before…
The old William Morris wallpaper was dark and dated. Yellow wall paint and trim, ugly, pink ceiling and dark stained beams made the space feel closed in and dreary. (Just in case there are any heritage purists out there, the beams were stained a very dark brown/black. This made painting them white, a very easy decision.)
Paying Homage to the Past
The house has tons of character with lots of original hardwood floor, coffered ceilings and stained glass. In mid-January, we moved in. January days are still dark. Creating a bright and light front room was a game changer. New Pure, William Morris wallpaper was a great choice for this room as it still retains that old-world feel.
PRO TIP: If something is in great shape, don’t rip it out! Especially architectural features!
The house is circa 1912, a bit of California Bungalow. Thankfully, previous owners had updated the fireplace, with a warm gas insert. The tile colour is quite unusual, which adds a certain patina to the space. The hearth and mantle are original, and in great shape!
I can’t help smiling in my new living room! This charming bungalow now highlights its original features but beautifully marries modern and traditional.
Sideboard Details
Oh, a word on this sideboard. This piece is a family heirloom with special meaning. SO, we actually brought it back from Australia with us. Unexpected Bonus… the insignia happens to go with a footstool that I scored thrifting!! Check out the stool beside the fireplace – pic with fireplace detail…
My joy is in the details! I am a big fan of mixing vintage and new, creating a curated and eclectic modern vibe.So, what do you think? I hope you love it as much as we do! 🙂
All of the beautiful photos were taken by: Kristen McGaughey Architectural Photographer
Looking to renovate or redesign your own interior living space? Reach out!
