Young at Heart

An active retiree who throws big parties gets a remodel that takes his entertaining personality to a whole new level.

When retired executive Dennis Burdett met designer Susan Parker of Parker House Designs during a New Year's Eve party at his town home in Nicholas North, British Columbia he couldn't help but show her the plan drawings for his kitchen remodel. She could see that the dated, cluttered space was crying out for a redo that truly matched the owner's vivacious personality and using her immediate experience as Burdett's guest that evening, Parker made some insightful recommendations, and then she and Earl Lawson of V6B Design Group conceived a space that tied it all together for him.

In addition to skiing and golf Burdett enjoys having people over for small get togethers or parties of up to 60, and cooking for them himself, or hiring professional chefs. Existing structural log posts anchor two thick wood counters to form a large, inviting U-shape into the living area, and fired granite counters with flecks of green signify kitchen prep while wooden counters define seating. A wine bar positioned under the stairs is completely accessible for guests. The kitchen work zone was set out in a triangle that limits the space between fridge, prep, range and island to only four steps. "Sub-Zero was the caliber of refrigeration he already knew he wanted," says Parker, adding that the flexibility and performance of the 48-inch Wolf dual fuel means that chefs remain eager to return for future parties.

Today the old 'bachelor pad' resembles a new high-end lodge thanks to bold earthtone colors and rich details like pendant lights with mica silver finish. The signature red handles of the Wolf range are echoed in a series of round red tiles on the backsplash. The mix of whimsy and rustic elegance make Burdett—and his guests—feel right at home.