Kate and Lucas Portwood’s ranch along the Elbow River in Springbank was a true testament to the funky 1970s: the home’s curved staircase and sunken living room were hints that the house hadn’t been updated since it was first built a half-century ago. Unfortunately, other signs of the times — outdated electrical work and good ol’ asbestos insulation — necessitated a renovation.
The home was taken down to the studs, including demolishing the original concrete fireplace that separated the living room from the kitchen. It was a bittersweet decision for the homeowners, who liked the cozy wood-burning vibes. “We wanted a living room that is a warm and welcoming place to gather and enjoy the incredible views,” Kate says.
But designer Brooke Butler was quick to come up with a solution for the new main room. “The fireplace was relocated and redesigned as a sculptural focal point within the sunken space,” Butler explains. This involved some careful strategy when it came to the venting and structure, but the team used cues from the existing architecture to make the room look and feel comfortable. Collaborating with Shinobi Craft Construction and Calgary Interiors, Butler created a custom built-in bench that perfectly hugged the curve of the staircase.
Now, there’s an easy, flowing connection between the sunken living room and the kitchen, and the space feels cohesive, bright and mellow while paying homage to its original bones. Retro-inspired millwork by Liber Custom Cabinetry also mimics the curve in the stairwell (both the hood fan and the kitchen island are free of sharp corners).
Expanded windows and an additional set of sliding doors let in plenty of light. “We spend so much time outside; adding the second sliding doors into the living room was such a great way to create more flow in and out for us and for our dogs,” says Kate.
For colour inspiration, the team didn’t need to look far. “Setting informed every material decision,” says Butler, pointing out the natural earthy palette of the winding Elbow River and sweeping mountain views. “Warm wood tones, mineral-inspired neutrals and layered textures reflect both the movement of the river and the strength of the mountains,” she adds.
The living space acts as the home’s hub — the perfect place to settle in with a cup of coffee, play a board game or enjoy the family’s record collection. The functional and timeless mod revival renovation preserves the original architecture and ensures that the beautiful natural landscape can be enjoyed for the next 50 years. “The house truly feels like a tree house,” says Kate.
The Bench Seating
This architectural, built-in lounge area follows the curve of the staircase. “It’s one of a kind and super functional for our family,” says Kate.
The Wall Sconces
The homeowners and designer are all from the Georgian Bay area in Ontario, and these lights from Huey Lightshop are made nearby. The sconces’ curves are designed to mimic the waves of the bay.
The Fireplace
Butler chose rust-coloured finger tiles (narrow and rectangular) for the fireplace to introduce contrast within the restrained palette. “The vertical rhythm emphasizes height in the sunken room — it gives the space weight and presence,” she says.
The Ceiling Light
To preserve the beautiful mountain view, Butler selected a low-profile light for the ceiling. “It maintains openness while adding sculptural softness,” says Butler.