Are you interesting in learning about how to find historically authentic paint schemes for heritage homes in Vancouver? Join heritage consultants Elana Zysblat and John Atkin for a hands-on workshop at Roedde House and discover what it takes to analyze historic paint colours using VHF's True Colours palette.

Determining the original paint scheme of a house is instrumental in understanding the house style, its design intent, and the trending colours in Vancouver at the time it was first constructed. A historic exterior colour scheme highlights architectural details and materials through the intentional placement of tones. An understanding of how colour was used historically can give insight not only into the trends and styles of the time, but also inform current owners and stewards of heritage buildings when deciding on a new colour scheme.

In this workshop, heritage consultants Elana Zysblat and John Atkin will give a brief overview of how colours were used in Vancouver c.1890s-1920s and the sometimes surprising sources that influenced colour choices in those days. They will delve into how paint analyses are conducted and share how to determine historically authentic paint schemes for heritage homes in Vancouver. Participants will be shown a variety of siding and shingle samples from historic buildings which they will examine using a magnifying glass to see the many layers of paint and to attempt to discern what the first colour was. We will then have time to discuss our observations, and answer questions. Participants will also have the opportunity to explore the museum and enjoy tea and cookies.

This workshop earns 1 credit towards VHF’s Heritage Conservation Certificate.

About the Speakers

A professional member of the Canadian Association of Heritage Professionals, Elana Zysblat is an accomplished, award-winning heritage consultant and educational program developer with expertise in heritage conservation, cultural tourism and community engagement (formerly the Programming Director with the Vancouver Heritage Foundation (2008 to 2011)), Elana is an independent heritage consultant with Ance Building Services, a Vancouver-based firm which practices across BC. Amongst her diverse activities, Elana teaches workshops for Heritage BC, supports municipalities without heritage planners, and evaluates and guides the conservation of historic sites around the province. She is currently President of the BC Association of Heritage Professionals and a director with the Friends of the Vancouver Archives.

John Atkin is a civic historian, author and heritage consultant. He offers an interesting and offbeat insight into the city’s architecture, history and neighbourhoods through a series of unique and popular walking tours. These combine his interests in urban planning and development, a love of architecture and a fascination for the curious. 

PLEASE NOTE: For in-person events, we are unable to provide refunds or credits for cancellations received less than four (4) weeks prior to the event. For additional information on VHF's policies, please visit our Policies page prior to registering.

If you would like to make a donation in addition to your registration, the amount will be tax deductible and you will receive an official tax receipt for donations of $20 or more. Our Registered Charity number is 891765968.

GST# 89176 5968 RT0001