Architectural Style in British Columbia

Dreaming of owning a Vancouver Island home with style? Here is a comprehensive list of architectural home styles popular on Vancouver Island. 

Victorian Architecture 

This style dates to the 19th century when Queen Victoria ruled Great Britain. The city of Victoria’s history and connection to Great Britain means that Victorian style houses are popular here. Houses like these feature vertically steep roofs, bay windows, stained glass, high ceilings and intricate woodwork. 

Tudor Rival 

This style dates to the 1920s- 1930’s and is often seen in the affluent communities of south Vancouver Island. The style is marked by extensive woodwork featured in both the interior and exterior. Dark wood wall paneling, wooden ceiling beams, along with a steep high-pitched roof, and an exterior of brick and half-timber framing means that these homes were costly to build. 

Art Moderne

This style dates to the 1930’s when the style of Art Deco was popular. The style features a flat roof, an asymmetrical shape, rounded corners, a low exterior profile, stucco, cement and or glass exterior walls.  Moreover, they feature a smooth white exterior. Although rare, there are a few houses of this style located in the cities of Victoria and Nanaimo BC. 

Ranch- Style

This style dates to the mid 20th century but continues to be one of the most popular and sod after styles today. Ranches are ground level and single story. Most often, they feature a wide-open layout, attached garage and a spacious kitchen and living area. The exteriors are relatively simple, and the roofs are not steeply pitched. You can find this style of home within most cities and communities of Vancouver Island. 

Split Level

This style dates to the mid 20th century and features a split-up floor plan separated by half stairs. Bedrooms are separated from the rest of house by a half staircase. A sunken living room is separated by half stairs from the kitchen, and another living area and den is located on the lower level. You can find this popular style of home within most cities and communities of Vancouver Island.

Vancouver Special

This style dates to the 1970’s. Designed in Vancouver BC, this home was immensely popular within the Vancouver suburbs. The style is large and boxy and has an exterior of both stucco and brick. This style is both easy and cheap to build. You can find this popular style of home within most cities and communities of Vancouver Island.

Contemporary

This style is of present day and characterized by open floor plans, a limited number of doors and walls, wide windows, lots of natural light and sleek geometric lines. This style is also eco friendly and is made up of recycled materials and or has a solar panel roof.  You can find this style of home within the gated communities of Tofino and Ucluelet.