Admirer of Cardinal’s work preserves house

Dr. Nan Schuurmans recognized instantly that the crumbling house was an early work of esteemed Aboriginal architect Douglas Cardinal.

“I was looking for a bungalow to purchase and as soon as I saw the fireplace, I recognized Cardinal’s style of design because I’m a big admirer of his,” said Schuurmans. “The house was in rough shape and there had been talk of tearing it down, but it had such beautiful lines and it fit in so nicely with the landscape, and I just loved it right away.”    

That was a over a year ago. Since then she has been restoring the house to its former glory.

“I decided to hire a designer and an architect. There was a number of things that needed fixing, such as water damage to the wood, but the contractors have done an excellent job of ensuring it looks great and that it will last now for years to come,” she said.

Douglas Cardinal was born in Calgary in 1934. Cardinal, of Aboriginal heritage, studied architecture at the University of British Columbia and the renowned University of Texas. He rose to international fame and his masterpieces include the Canadian Museum of Civilization in Ottawa and the National Museum of the American Indian that is part of the Smithsonian Institute at Washington, DC. He has received recognition and numerous awards.

Despite the extensive renovations, Schurmanns has preserved the trademark Cardinal-design, including the inlaid cedar ceilings and post and beam west-coast style features, and the graceful fireplace.

“The only thing we took out were some elements that were fashionable when the house was originally designed that really dated it and weren’t typical in today’s houses,” said Schuurmans. “But the bones of the house have been kept and the materials that we used blend in with the original design.”

The local obstetric doctor also shares Cardinal’s belief in protecting the environment and recognizes Cardinal’s deep understanding of architecture as a tool to better the world: a holistic enterprise where everything works seamlessly together and creates beauty, balance and harmony together in a common vision.

“I have worked closely with architect David Murray and Fay Mihailidies, an interior designer, both of whom have kept the design as original as possible,” said Schurmanns.
Located on Capilano Crescent and built in the 1950s, it is known as the Grotski residence after the lawyer who hired Cardinal to renovate it in 1978. Recognizing its significance, Schuurmans applied successfully to have the house designated as an historic resource, thereby ensuring its perpetuity.

“I have read about Mr. Cardinal and admired his work so was pleased to actually meet him on one of his trips to Edmonton,” said Schuurmans. “What he believes about Native spirituality is something I also appreciate.”