Designing the In-Between
panoramah! windows in Liminal House

McLeod Bovell Modern Houses

By Lisa Bovell and Matt McLeod

Liminal House West Vancouver is a stunning modern residence designed by McLeod Bovell Modern Houses. Located on the edge of land and sea, this home explores the concept of liminality — the transitional space between states, moments, and places. From its architecture to its materials, every element supports a narrative of change, openness, and reflection, with the minimalist windows with massive glazing playing an important role in that.

A design inspired by life transition

The owners of Liminal House West Vancouver were entering a new phase in life — the “empty nest” stage. They envisioned a home that would reflect this transition and offer both comfort and introspection. McLeod Bovell responded with a dynamic structure that seems to reach out toward the Pacific, where cantilevered forms evoke lightness and motion, while grounded elements maintain a solid connection to the earth.

Natural materials for coastal life

Built to withstand the elements, the house features materials like concrete, aluminum plate, and accoya wood. These choices not only resist the salt air and moisture of West Vancouver’s coastal climate but also deliver a clean, modern aesthetic. The natural textures soften the strong geometry of the building, helping it blend harmoniously with the rugged landscape.

Spatial experience and fluidity

From the start, the house was conceived as a spatial and sensory experience. The design encourages movement through and around the central courtyard and two glazed garden patios. These outdoor areas introduce natural light deep into the home and create reflections that multiply views and blur boundaries. As a result, Liminal House West Vancouver offers layered visual experiences and a constant awareness of nature’s presence.

Minimal Glazing, Maximum Transparency

McLeod Bovell incorporated two minimal glazing systems by panoramah! to maintain transparency and maximize views.

The first is the ah!60 sliding window system. It offers uninterrupted views and smooth transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces. With an ultra-slim visible profile of just 20 mm, it can support glass panels up to 29 m², while also providing excellent thermal and acoustic insulation.

The second is the ah!38 system, used for other large openings. This fixed and sliding solution allows for flexible configurations while maintaining transparency and minimal visual intrusion.

In both systems, self-supporting glass plays a key structural role, with aluminum acting as discrete guiding and sealing elements. Together, they support the house’s minimalist detailing and reinforce its sense of openness — both physically and emotionally.

Liminal House West Vancouver is more than an architectural achievement; it’s a poetic response to life in motion. Through careful material selection, minimalist expression, and connection to nature, McLeod Bovell have created a home that is at once rooted and fluid — an ideal reflection of the in-between.

More photos here