Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/252637
47 FEBRUARY 2014 | bcliving.ca I n 2009, Formwerks Architectural founder Jim Bussey scooped up a modest Kits old-timer located within walking distance of Spanish Banks with the intention to reno and flip it. But plans changed when Bussey's longtime girlfriend, Jenna Girard, decided to purchase the home for herself and the two began to work on the project together. "When it came to building, I had a client on my hands who was deeply involved in my life helping me with the decision-making," says Bussey. Bussey said his goal was to balance his need to create a home with long-term resale value with Girard's desire to create a highly personal project that reflected her stylish and whimsical personality. For the exterior, Bussey took little input from Girard and concentrated on the character detailing, from rafter tails to shingle siding, for which his firm is known. When it came to the interior, Girard, who had spent years staging and managing properties for family and friends, had ideas of her own. "I am the friend who comes for tea and when you go to the bathroom I rearrange all the cushions in your living room and say 'I hope you like it.'" Girard refers to her signature style as "antique Parisian," a look she first encountered when she moved to Paris to study at the Sorbonne at the age of 18. A melding of two styles e seasoned architect began the project by establishing a comfortable main floor plan Très ChiC (Above) Jenna loves antique Parisian decor, a look that includes lots of black, white and grey finishings mixed with vintage and sparkly accessories. she honed her personal style while at university in Paris. sound FoundATion (right) Jenna and Jim defied the stereotype that a renovation can cause romantic discord. The couple got engaged during the project while on a vacation to Cancun. niCe ArrAngemenT (Below) Jenna does home staging for family and friends. "i am the friend who comes for tea and when you go to the bathroom i rearrange all the cushions in your living room and say 'i hope you like it.'" p46-49_Home_GirardHome.indd 47 14-01-20 4:11 PM