West Coast modernism has a distinct flavor—that blurring of lines between architecture and nature so exalted by mid-century practitioners is made manifest here. The style is most associated with California, especially the Pacific Palisades, but also much appreciated in British Columbia, where the weather, while not quite as warm year-round, is mostly mild. From north to south, the backdrop of ocean, mountains, and urban life makes for a compelling canvas for indoor-outdoor living. In Victoria, B.C., a home designed by architecture firm BoForm with interiors by Bidgood channels the best of California modernism while adapting to its rugged, nature-embedded site.
Photography by MMK Creative
Perched above the water with a view of the Salish Sea toward the U.S. mainland, the 400-square-meter home spans three levels that cascade along the hillside. While bringing the outdoors in—through expansive glazing around the home’s perimeter—was paramount, so was imbuing the spaces within with a contemporary take on mid-century modernism.
Photography by MMK Creative
The primary living spaces are arrayed across the main floor: the living and dining areas, the main kitchen and butler’s kitchen, a powder room, and the garage. Step down to the level below, and you enter the more private spaces, including the primary bedroom (and walk-in closet), a guest bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, a home office, another powder room, and more.
Photography by MMK Creative
The lowest level is dedicated to guests and wellness; here, there are two additional guest rooms, a gym, a full bathroom, and mechanical space. The gym and guest rooms open onto a terrace with an outdoor kitchen, hot tub, and lounge area.
Photography by MMK Creative
The rooms are characterized by exposed beams, brick walls, quality millwork, and furnishings. “With the architecture and space plan established, our role was to refine the interior—developing all interior elements and ensuring a cohesive, intentional flow from the exterior inward,” says Kyla Bidgood, creative director and founder of Bidgood.
Photography by MMK Creative
Terrazzo, stone, and wood complement the blond brick, which also wraps the benches along the windows and the fireplace. The washrooms and millwork became “moments of expression,” where the design team opted for bolder surfaces and more vivid palettes.
Photography by MMK Creative
The owners, originally from Quebec, sought “warmth, earthiness, and a strong sense of place,” says Bidgood. Her firm delivered on crafting an expansive yet homey setting, where the owners’ own impressive art collection completes the scene.
Photography by MMK Creative
