Traditionally Vancouver's established neighbourhood, Shaughnessy has seen a remarkable revival over the past several years. With elegant, Victorian-themed houses set on estate-sized lots on quiet, tree-lined streets, Shaughnessy has a refined, dignified feel.
Known to many as the “Grand Old Neighbourhood” in Vancouver, Shaughnessy is the outcome of the metro’s economic development in the 1900s. It was developed by the Canadian Pacific Railway and named after its founding president, Thomas Shaughnessy. Its winding tree lined avenues are flanked by tended gardens and hedgerows surrounding its huge and luxurious residences.
History
Planning is a key part in Shaughnessy’s heritage as a premier neighbourhood in Vancouver. The neighbourhood was bought and developed by the Canadian Pacific Railway Company in the early parts of the 1900s. The community was originally designed as an alternative to West End’s increasing populace of nouveau riche in the metro. Designers of the NYC Central L. Davick and F. Todd worked together to lay out almost 6,000 acres of the neighbourhood’s winding crescents and verdant streets. Today, the neighbourhood is known for its sizeable residences with the earmark of a boastful heritage and Hollywood celebrities as residents.
Geographic Location
Considered as the highest point in the metro, Shaughnessy places a distance between the busy corporate life downtown and the comforts of your very own home. The neighbourhood is located at the heart of the city and is near major roads and transit access.
Housing
A lot of Shaughnessy’s residential properties were designed by the top architects who integrated the American and classic British influences that can still be witnessed today. With the support of the present community members, the city government is implementing a specialized development plan that will help preserve the pre 1940 homes and ensure that the coming residential development plans are complementary to the neighbourhood’s unique architectural designs. Most of the real estate properties in Shaughnessy are detached single family houses on big lots in the more expensive price range.
School and Transportation
Although the neighbourhood is tucked away from the noisy and busy urban lane, Shaughnessy still has easy metro access by bus or car. Shaughnessy is currently bisected through the Granville Street, providing a 15 minute drive downtown and to the airport. Oak street is located at Shaughnessy’s eat border and is a preferred route to the airport and other communities. There are two grade schools, a secondary school and four community parks in the community. Shaughnessy is also home to the famous and breathtaking views of the VanDusen Botanical Gardens.
Shopping and Recreation
The Shaughnessy borders are defined by nearby shopping districts. On the west is the Arbutus Village Shopping Centre with its grocery store, banks and other service shops. Enjoy a unique mix of local boutiques and restaurants that line Oak Street, on the eastern side of the neighbourhood. Shaughnessy boasts premier heritage properties such as the Hycroft located at the McRae Avenue and the Glen Brae at Matthews Street.
