Bold Architectural Design in a Narrow Lot

Nestled into a challenging narrow lot in Vancouver, this striking home by Scott Posno Design is a masterclass in balancing urban sophistication with cabin-like tranquility. Designed for a couple of industrial designers and manufacturers, the two-year project culminates in a minimalist yet warm retreat that feels both timeless and deeply connected to its site.

Black board and batten siding pairs with a matching metal roof for a crisp, modern exterior of this house, that feels timeless and tailored to the site.

Architectural Ingenuity on a Sloped Site

The home’s three-level design maximizes its constrained footprint, stepping confidently down the steep slope. Municipal zoning codes dictated the angular roofline, but the result a sharp, black-metal-clad silhouette feels intentional rather than restrictive. The exterior’s monolithic black cladding and matching metal roof create a bold streetside presence, while the rear opens generously to the landscape through full-width sliding glass doors.

Indoor-Outdoor Fluidity

A covered outdoor terrace extends the family room, seamlessly blending interiors with a terraced backyard that transforms the rugged topography into usable green space. This clever design preserves privacy while fostering a effortless connection to nature.

A terraced backyard and covered rear deck extend the living space outdoors, with sliding glass doors creating a seamless connection between inside and out.

Interiors: Warm Minimalism

Living Room: Anchored by a concrete-based fireplace and hidden-TV cabinetry, the space balances sleekness with warmth.
Dining Area: Wrapped in rift-cut oak, the room exudes Scandinavian-inspired hygge—minimal yet inviting.
Kitchen: Black cabinetry, Gaggenau appliances, and marble countertops contrast with a floating wooden staircase, adding sculptural drama.
Powder Room: A small but impactful space with bold marble veining and minimalist fixtures.

Wrapped in tambour oak veneer, this minimalist dining room is warm, textured, and softly lit, a perfect blend of Scandinavian influence and urban elegance.

A clean-lined fireplace with a concrete base grounds this serene living space, while built-in cabinetry hides the TV for a clutter-free feel.

Upper-Level Serenity

Home Office: Tucked under a vaulted wooden ceiling, it’s flooded with natural light.
Primary Suite: White walls and a warm wood partition define the sleeping area without enclosure, creating a serene, efficient layout.
Primary Bath: A study in quiet luxury, with monolithic marble surfaces and a freestanding tub.

Minimal white walls and a warm wood partition define this peaceful bedroom retreat, quiet, considered, and beautifully restrained.

Clad in marble, this small powder room makes a big impact with bold veining and a minimal palette. Perfectly tied to the home's overall design.

Final Thoughts

From its moody exterior to its textured interiors, this home exemplifies how constraints can inspire innovation. The interplay of blackened cladding, warm wood, and strategic spatial planning results in a residence that’s both a bold architectural statement and a calming sanctuary.

✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight

This Vancouver residence masterfully navigates its sloped site with a design that feels both intentional and organic. The angular black exterior and warm, wood-lined interiors strike a compelling balance between urban edge and rustic comfort. However, while the minimalist approach excels in clarity, some may argue the palette risks feeling overly restrained additional textural contrasts or artisanal details could elevate the sensory experience. That said, the home’s true strength lies in its seamless indoor-outdoor flow, proving that even the most challenging lots can yield spaces of profound harmony and purpose