Vision Vancouver mayoral candidate (and Happy Planet Foods co-founder) Gregor Robertson and wife Amy.

Credit: Doug Shanks

MY DIGS: Gregor Robertson and family

What it is: “A tall blue house with a side yard; a living willow fence; a deck, garden and small shed in the backyard; and a basketball hoop in the alley. Our house was built in 1912 and has many of its original features.”

Occupants: Gregor Robertson, Vision Vancouver mayoral candidate and co-founder of Happy Planet Foods; wife Amy; kids Hanna, Jinagh, Satchel and Terra; “one kitty, a fantastic tenant, and many plants,” says Gregor.

Own or rent? “We hope to own it all someday! In the meantime, we are fortunate to have a full house with a great tenant downstairs.”

Square feet: “About 3,000 square feet on four floors, filled with seven people.”

Length of time here: “After an intense five-month renovation — with Amy in charge — we moved in over three years ago.”

Major selling feature: “We live in a great neighbourhood [Douglas Park] with one of the busiest local parks in the city, and an active community centre that attracts people of all ages and backgrounds. Our house has great light from the big windows, and a solar hot-water system. We’re close to bike routes and buses, right beside an elementary school, and within walking distance to a high school.”

First thing we changed: “The first thing we did to the house was add over a dozen windows. Following that, we took out a number of walls to open up the rooms on the main floor.”

Feature we brag about: “The garden space on the side of our house where we grow fruit and veggies, and the two classic lions guarding the front steps.”

That one conversation piece: “The kitchen island where everyone gathers, and the wood beams above, both carved by our friend Volker Stiegemann.”

The décor: “City farmhouse!”

Story behind the art: “Most of our art comes from local B.C. artists who we’ve met over the years. The house is also filled with cedar baskets woven by Amy.”

Downsides: “Not having a fireplace.”

Neighbourhood haunts: “There are many:Kino Cafe on Cambie for drinks and great flamenco; Black Dog Video; Dragon Ball bubble tea, which our kids love; and Hiroshi’s delectable sushi on Oak Street.”

Compared to our last place: “This is a funkier house with more space, but, sadly, further from Main Street.”

Most recent home purchase: “Eco-paint from Benjamin Moore, for the fastest bedroom improvement possible.”