King George Terrace

While visiting Victoria from their home in Calgary, Shane and Christine O’leary discovered a beautiful waterfront property just two doors down from their friends’ home. Chris worked closely with Zebra Design to craft the perfect plan for the narrow lot, navigating onerous environmental regulations and a known archaeological site. 

The charm of the waterfront beach and the serene atmosphere of Vancouver Island convinced the Calgary couple that this property would be an ideal place to spend their retirement. With a clear plan ahead and the perfect location, Shane and Christine were ready to embark on their journey towards building their dream retirement home. 

Chris and team worked alongside an archeologist to treat the historical site with the respect it demanded. Fronting a public beach access required careful planning to balance adequate privacy while optimizing the stunning views. The finished result blends expertly into the environment to create a serene, personal haven on a lively beach. 

This project also lended Chris the opportunity to meet a personal favourite celebrity; “Mr. Wonderful” himself, Kevin O’leary. Chris couldn’t help but notice that Shane bore a striking resemblance to the notoriously candid businessman and T.V. personality. In this small world it’s only natural that they were brothers. Kevin was impressed with his brother’s new build, and continues to stay at the home when he frequents Victoria.

This stunning French Country inspired custom home boasts classic style and modern amenities, perfectly blending into the established Oak Bay neighborhood of Victoria BC. With its own private beach and meticulous attention to detail, every aspect of this home has been carefully considered and designed.

Built on a challenging narrow lot with a steeply sloped waterfront bank, this home features an elegant storey and a half design with a walk-out basement, creating a livable and well-laid out floor plan.

Working closely with a supervising archaeologist, we were able to protect and preserve the archaeological midden on the property while incorporating a beautiful rain garden to provide storm water retention and irrigation for native species along the waterfront.

The home is also equipped with the latest in home entertainment, automation, and security, including a system for monitoring energy use. Radiant in-floor heating, an energy-efficient boiler, and HRV system provide efficient and sustainable heating.

With age-in-place living in mind, provisions were made for a future elevator, while recycled brick detailing and stairs on the exterior of the house add to the home's character.

Classic curved dormers, doors, custom built newel posts with recycled fir beams, and ceiling details contribute to the authentic period detailing that is evident throughout the home.