A Stunning Restored BC Home That Will Transport You to Another Time

Distinguishing elements of the Arts and Crafts movement include the use of locally sourced materials, the integration of groomed gardens and simple folk style. The movement was a reaction to the industrialization in the Victorian era and was seen as a return to authentic craftsmanship.

The exquisite property was originally designed and built by American-English architect Paul Phipps, and is considered to be one of the greatest examples of the Arts and Crafts architectural style in Canada.

The estate is located in Vancouver’s historic Shaughnessy neighbourhood and is named after its longtime owners, the Disher family, who lived in the property for just over 50 years. The current owner is Calgary businessman Murray Nunns, who restored the home with what he calls a “labour of love”.

The beauty of an Arts and Crafts style home is that the majority of elements are handmade, including the furniture, built-ins, mouldings, window frames and bricks. There is a great attention to detail and each room is distinct. A home’s craftsman would almost always carve out a signature mark, making each piece one-of-a-kind.

While the home’s furniture isn’t original to the property, the pocket doors, wood floors and trim, stained glass, mouldings and fireplaces have all existed here since 1912. One light fixture is an original Tiffany lamp (the work of prolific 19th-century designer Louis Comfort Tiffany).

An extraordinary feature in the home’s living room is this original plaster-cast ceiling. It’s made up of a series of segments of plaster and has remained intact since the day it was put up over 100 years ago!

The spectacular gardens are a predominant feature of an Arts and Crafts building. The style originated in England where groomed and extravagant gardens were a main design feature.

Want more? Tour this historic home and more inspiring spaces with design star Tommy Smythe in our Great Canadian Homes documentary.