SUSTAINABLE DESIGN, VANGLO STYLE

Vanglo L-R: Martin Warren, Brian Chew, Brendan Mctavish, Corbyn Collins, Neil Johnson 

 

Like many a pasty Brit has done before him, Martin Warren (far left) moved to Vancouver during that carefree, crazy time we call our 20s. Seduced – for the most part - by majestic mountains, clean air, and the promise of fresh powder. But the ski bum lifestyle comes with an expiry date, and that (for anyone other than the truly gifted) typically kicks in around 30. Or when you realize that you are far exceeding Advil’s “suggested use” advisory. So, this self-described OCD rider began looking for an organic way to marry his passion for the mountains with his burgeoning love of design. And that, my friends, was when Vanglo began to take shape.

 

Vanglo Sustainable Construction Group was established in 2002 as a one-stop shop for green design and construction. Their integrated project systems focus on maximizing efficiency without ever compromising on esthetics. Martin refers to the company as “an architect’s builder”; with a talented roster of like-minded folks who’s goal is to make every home a healthy and intelligent one.  Martin remembers a time in the not-to-distant past when he was forced to wear gear bordering on hazmat to complete work on a child’s bedroom, and he’s just not down with that.

Vanglo’s first full rebuild is proof that Martin and his team are determined to walk the eco-talk.  First they commandeered a dilapidated home at 135 East 17th, and then got to work on what will no doubt be their pièce de résistance.

BEFORE: 135 East 17th, East Vancouver 

 

“We designed this home for a young, progressive family who loves being close to the energy of Main Street” - Martin Warren, Vanglo

DURING: 135 East 17th, East Vancouver

 

This crazy, cool 3 bedroom home in the heart of Mount Pleasant boasts 90% efficiency, an inverted, ultra contemporary floorplan, and a massive South facing deck that truly celebrates the great outdoors. Martin sees it as the perfect space for a “young, progressive family who loves being close to the energy of Main Street”, but he also admits to fantasizing about taking up residence himself.  

 

AFTER: Interior Rendering 135 East 17th, East Vancouver

AFTER: Exterior Rendering, 135 East 17th.

 

Martin has spent over a year working on his “baby”; pushing himself and his team to new heights, and carving out a position as Vancouver’s leader in sustainable design. I guess once a mountain man, always a mountain man.

To learn more about Vanglo's Sustainable Projects click here.

And to register for updates and listing info on 135 East 17th go to: http://www.135east17th.com/