Thirty-eight years after moving out of his family home in Calgary’s southwest, Robert Ollerenshaw, founder and executive chairman of Section23 Developments and Baywest Homes, realized there’s no place like home and decided to move back in. “I couldn’t get a better location, with the corner lot that backed onto the Glenmore Reservoir,” Ollerenshaw says. “But the 1970s bungalow was dated and in serious need of a major renovation.”
Inspired by mid-century-modern designs in Palm Springs, Calif., Ollerenshaw, who has a master’s in architectural design, knew exactly what he wanted — an artful combination of classic modernism that incorporated elements of his childhood home. With this in mind, he engaged interior designer and close friend, Monica Stevens, to assist in realizing his vision.
The central living room best represents the nostalgia-infused design, juxtaposing clean mid-century-inspired furnishings alongside an ornate 100-year-old grand piano once owned by Ollerenshaw’s mother and the 40-year-old Hammond organ he still plays from time to time. “The house is like a quilt,” says Stevens. “It’s a patchwork of beautiful pieces and memories from family and friends.”
The Light
Popular in 20th-century homes, the hallway and living room have a clerestory ceiling, letting in maximum natural light longer into the day. Blown-glass Bocci light fixtures are another element that adds transparency.
The Fireplace
The original fireplace, built in 1973, is made of naturally occurring dolomite rock that Ollerenshaw and his father sourced and brought back from British Columbia. A smooth, sleek hearth of white marble complements the irregular texture and natural hues of the surrounding dolomite.
The painting
A white gallery wall showcases a striking, large-scale abstract painting by Canadian Modernist William Perehudoff, known for his simple forms and use of colour.
The coffee table
Ollerenshaw designed the coffee table in rift oak, with a metal insert as a practicality measure for displaying floral arrangements.