Great Places in Canada recently named the West End the country’s greatest neighbourhood, but that comes as no surprise to David Birch and Paul Wylie. Partners in life and in business, the pair – already residents of the unique Vancouver hood – saw an opportunity to mix business and pleasure when the iconic West End Guest House went on the market.
Purchased just over a year ago, Birch and Wylie became just the third owners of the bed and breakfast in the Vancouver heritage home nestled on Haro, between Broughton and Jervis streets.
Standing at the front gate, flanked by luscious greenery and a warm glow emanating from behind picture windows, it’s no wonder Birch says they’ve been booked solid since April.
Closed for only a month when they took possession, a major cosmetic renovation not only brought back the Victorian aesthetic of the 109-year-old house, but allowed Birch and Wylie to imprint their more modern tastes on the décor.
“We wanted something that reflected our style,” Birch explains, seated on some of the original furniture in the parlour. “All of the art is from local artists, and the Mozart piece in the dining room was a commission from a painter we bought a small piece from on the corner of the street.”
Photos documenting the growth of the West End over the last century line the front hall. An homage to the original owners, the Edwards family of Scotland, the photos were taken by their son, a photographer.
Seven guest rooms, each unique in their furnishings and all with private en suites, offer modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi. The sunroom, veranda and private garden feel more like an enchanted secret forest than this prime location in a bustling neighbourhood, home to thousands.
Wylie wakes to prepare a breakfast of freshly baked goods each morning and says, it’s his way of meeting and connecting with the guests.
“Many are return visitors, and have commented on how bright and open it feels now,” he says. “The mix of antique and modern has made for a diversity in travellers.”
Birch adds, “People are always happy on vacation and we also love to travel, so meeting people from all over the world has been great.”
