designed by : fred dalla-lana

built by : the zack family in 1973

short blurb by the realtor :

once in a while something special comes along. this stunning example of a west coast modern design is nestled into a private and mature landscaped setting on a 52’ lot. the seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors and the abundance of natural light make you feel like you are living among nature. the large master suite is on the main floor with a generous ensuite and walk-in closet. head upstairs to find two bedrooms that share a hall bathroom plus a large open den overlooking an upper deck. the open living concept on the main floor offers entertainment sized rooms with the added bonus of a large covered patio for the warm summer months. the attached double garage provides plenty of storage as well.

short description from the 2007 vancouver heritage foundation’s  mid-century home tour:

designed by fred dalla-lana for the zack family, this unique west coast home won architectural awards and editorial recognition during the 1970s. enclosed by neighbouring houses and shadowed by tall cedars, this 50’ lot has few hours of actual sunlight. this aspect coupled with the zack family’s wishes to remove no tress and to have complete privacy (“a summer cabin in the city” was their vision) were the essential motivators of the design. the result is a large courtyard garden open to the sky with the house looking inwards, not out to the neighbours. this arboretum is partly open to the weather so that potted trees and greenery of all kinds can flourish, but it’s roofed with glass like a high shed or greenhouse to give it shelter from the winds and rains. thus, outdoor living is possible not only on hot summer days but for most of the year. natural light is maximized through the extensive use of skylights and the introduction of the large reflecting pool and travertine floor tiles which return light into the house. probably the only home in vancouver built and finished entirely in re-sawn mahogany, the home has a very warm quality to it, while the white travertine marble floors and simple earth coloured furnishings bring a sophisticated air to the space as well.