June is a big month in Vancouver for real estate looky-loos. Whether you prefer the distinguished character of a heritage home or the sleek modern feel of a renovated townhouse, here are a couple events that you should check out.
Open Vancouver Heritage House Tour
The award winning Heritage House Tour, now in its 6th year, is a one-day self-guided tour of 10 unique heritage homes in Vancouver. Each year, a different selection of private homes is opened. Ticket-holders use a 30 page guidebook to read about each home’s history and architecture and to make their way through some of the city’s most fascinating neighbourhoods.
The tour has raised over $250K to fund the VHF’s education and public awareness programs around Vancouver’s built heritage and has become a sold-out annual event. The Heritage House Tour takes place on June 1st from 10am to 5pm. Tickets are available online for $35.
15th Annual Parade of Renovated Homes
If you’ve ever spyed an impressive-looking house and wanted to peek inside without being arrested, the 15th Annual Parade of Renovated Homes is for you. The public will be able to tour the 16 renovated homes and professional renovators will be onsite to field questions and offer advice.
On the parade route is a cramped Kitsilano townhouse (see photo) that was transformed into an airy, free-flowing space by relocating the kitchen and adding larger windows to maximize a great view. Another 1920s home in Vancouver was transformed into a bed-and-breakfast, mixing contemporary design with an old-world feel.
The remaining homes are scattered throughout the Lower Mainland, in Surrey, Port Coquitlam, Delta, New Westminster and the North Shore. The parade takes place on June 8th from 10am to 4pm. Admission is by passport, which can be purchased for $10 at any home taking part in the parade.
Last modified: May 24, 2008
