G.D. Loane House

Built in 1937, the G.D. Loane House is valued as a good and rare example of Streamline Moderne architecture in Kelowna. Notable elements of this style include the asymmetrical facade, horizontal emphasis provided by the flat roof and the horizontal window proportioning, smooth stucco facade, pale colour palette and corner windows. The popularity of the streamlined appearance was closely connected to the technological marvels of the day, such as airplanes, airships and ocean liners. The Loane House is significant value as a largely unaltered and well-maintained example of this once radical modernistic style.

The Loane House is a significant as one of the best examples of the residential work of architect Robert Lyon (1879-1963). One of the most accomplished architects of his era, Lyon's work demonstrated an innovative approach to style and structure. Prior to moving to the Okanagan, he designed industrial structures for the B.C. Electrical Railway during their period of greatest expansion in the Vancouver region, that were significant for their early, large-scale use of reinforced concrete as a structural and finishing material. Lyon designed all of the large fruit packing warehouses in the Okanagan and the Kootenays throughout the 1920s and 1930s. His other designs included institutional work such as the Kelowna Post Office (1938, demolished) in an ornate interpretation of the Art Deco style, and residential commissions for various local political figures. As a Penticton councillor and reeve, Lyon was instrumental in the incorporation of Penticton as a city in 1948, and served as its first mayor.

The Loane House is of historical significance as evidence of Kelowna's atypical economic stability during the 1930s, the period of this home's construction. While most communities across the country suffered the disastrous effects of the worldwide depression, Kelowna was maintained a viable economy due to the stability of the fruit industry. While residential construction across the country languished during this period, residential construction flourished in Kelowna during this time, resulting in tracts of high-class housing, especially in the lakefront areas. The Loane House contributes to a neighbourhood streetscape that is now recognized as a residential heritage area.

The house has significant associations with local families. It was built for prominent businessman Gordon Donald Loane, manager of his family's business, W.W. Loane Hardware and Paints. Loane was also a well-known athlete and a charter member of the Shriner's Club in Kelowna in 1953. By 1948, the house had been acquired by Charles M. DeMara, a well-known businessman who lived here with his family for close to 20 years.