Shaughnessy, Vancouver’s Upper Crust Neighbourhood
The Grandeur of Shaughnessy
The Shaughnessy neighbourhood in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, is one of grand heritage homes. Its borders are 16th and 41st avenues on the north and south and Oak and Arbutus streets on the east and west. Shaughnessy is not a good fit for the Vancouver grid pattern of streets and avenues; instead, many roads loop and meander with the hilly terrain of the highest area in the city aside from nearby Queen Elizabeth Park. The neighbourhood’s estimated population is 9,000. Its name commemorates Thomas Shaughnessy, the American chief executive of the Canadian Pacific Railway from 1899 to 1918 when the king raised him to the British peerage as a first baron in 1916.
Shaughnessy has sprawling homes with enormous gardens. In September 2010 the average house sale price was $2,955,059. Average neighbourhood annual household income is $136K+, considerably higher than the Metro Vancouver average. In Shaughnessy, 51.5 percent of neighbourhood housing dates from before or during the Second World War II compared to 20.8 percent city-wide. The objective of the December 1998 First Shaughnessy Official Development Plan of the City of Vancouver is “to protect and preserve Shaughnessy’s unique pre–1940 character.” Two neighbourhood streets, Beverly Crescent and Cedar Crescent, have the highest average home values nationwide.
The Three Shaughnessys
The Canadian Pacific Railway developed the land for the First Shaughnessy neighbourhood in the early 1900s. The federal government in Ottawa granted the railroad, then the largest Canadian real estate developer, Old Shaughnessy north of King Edward Avenue as an inducement to extend its service to the West Coast. “First Shaughnessy” between 16th and 25th avenues and Oak Street and East Boulevard was the first such Canadian Pacific-developed subdivision. The area subsequently extended south of King Edward as far as 41st Avenue. The success and appeal of First Shaughnessy were so great that in the late ’20s and early ’30s development of adjacent land created the Second and then the Third Shaughnessy, where lots and houses are mostly smaller and more modest but still impressive by any measure.
Neighbourhood Attractions
A main Shaughnessy attraction is the VanDusen Botanical Garden, from 1911 to 1960 home of the Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club as lessor and tenant of the Canadian Pacific Railway until the club moved to a new location. The railroad proposed a subdivision, which many influential citizens opposed, so in 1966 the VanDusen Botanical Garden Association formed to assist the Vancouver Park Board in acquiring and redeveloping the property. Acquisition and redevelopment funds came from the City of Vancouver, the British Columbia Government, the Vancouver Foundation, largest of Canada’s community foundations, and industrialist/philanthropist W J VanDusen, the garden’s namesake. VanDusen Botanical Garden opened in August 1975.
The Heritage Vancouver Society sponsors weekend morning two-hour walking tours of Shaughnessy architectural wonders and landscaping delights. The Glen Brae Mansion on Matthews Avenue, once after its career as a private home the headquarters building of the Canadian Ku Klux Klan and now the Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, features twin, domed towers framing its front entrance. Hycroft Manor on McRae Avenue between Marpole Avenue and The Crescent around Shaughnessy Park, perhaps Vancouver’s most fashionable address, has 30 rooms on five acres housing the University Women’s Club of Vancouver since 1962. Hycroft Manor is open to the public for the club’s annual fundraiser, Christmas at Hycroft, and for many other events throughout the year.
Information Links:
http://vancouver.ca/green-vancouver/shaughnessy.aspx http://former.vancouver.ca/parks/cc/douglas/website/index.html
http://vancouver.ca/docs/planning/arbutus-ridge-kerrisdale-shaughnessy-arks-community-vision-full-report.pdf
New Shaughnessy Live MLS Listings
Shaughnessy, Vancouver's Upper Crust Neighbourhood
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1233 TECUMSEH Avenue in Vancouver: Shaughnessy House for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2696472
1233 TECUMSEH Avenue Vancouver V6H 1T3 
$29,999,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2696472
- Bedrooms:
- 7
- Bathrooms:
- 9
- Floor Area:
- 12,413 sq. ft.
Located in this most coveted First Shaughnessy neighborhood of Vancouver this brilliantly designed Modern Masterpiece is a rare example of high performance construction with a sensational ambiance situated on one of the most beautifully landscaped estate properties in the city. Together architectural firm The Airey Group and HB Design have created what is truly an iconic residence ideally situated in a private oasis masterfully designed by Paul Sanga Creative Landscape architects. Exceptional quality and extensive concrete, steel and timber construction together with an impeccable choice of quality materials define this exceptional 7 bedroom 9 bathroom home. Additional features include additional accessory building for guests, koi pond, 3 car garage and fully secured and gated access. More detailsListed by Angell, Hasman & Associates (Malcolm Hasman) Realty Ltd. and Angell, Hasman & Associates Realty Ltd.
- Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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1389 MATTHEWS Avenue in Vancouver: Shaughnessy House for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2687922
1389 MATTHEWS Avenue Vancouver V6H 1W7
$28,800,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2687922
- Bedrooms:
- 6
- Bathrooms:
- 9
- Floor Area:
- 10,816 sq. ft.
Rare available in Prestigious First Shaughnessy. Totally new built unbelievable luxurious Tudor style mansion, designed by famous architect Benjamin Ling, and built by Features Development. Over 10,816 sqft house sitting on huge 23,646 sqft south facing garden like yard, tree surrounded provides privacy for your family. Hard wood floor and granite tile through the house. 4 bedrooms upstairs, all ensuites; 1 large bedroom ensuite on main floor with walk-in-closet, Jacuzzi and shower; 1 bedroom ensuite in basement could be nanny room or guest room. Over 20' celing Spacious living room and big office, wok kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, built-in coffee machine. Also enjoy the Indoor swimming pool, 3 level elevator, Auto window cover. More detailsListed by Royal Pacific Realty Corp. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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1738 ANGUS Drive in Vancouver: Shaughnessy House for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2672622
1738 ANGUS Drive Vancouver V6J 4H5
$24,998,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2672622
- Bedrooms:
- 4
- Bathrooms:
- 7
- Floor Area:
- 7,984 sq. ft.
1738 Angus Drive presents a rare opportunity to acquire one of Vancouver’s most iconic estates. Sitting on a sprawling 51,000 square foot lot at the corner of Angus Drive and Alexandra Street, this elegant mansion is surrounded by magnificent gardens, meandering walkways, a tranquil pond, fountains and thoughtful stonework. Originally built in 1923 and then extensively renovated and restored in 1997 by architect John Hollifield, the home boasts 8,000 square feet of exquisite detail, superior craftsmanship and quality finishings. More detailsListed by Sotheby's International Realty Canada - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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1126 WOLFE Avenue in Vancouver: Shaughnessy House for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2614198
1126 WOLFE Avenue Vancouver V6H 1V8
$24,880,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2614198
- Bedrooms:
- 7
- Bathrooms:
- 8
- Floor Area:
- 11,019 sq. ft.
This exceptional newly completed grand-scale luxury estate residence is situated on a prized .53 acre view property and located in the confines of Vancouver’s ultra- exclusive and most prestigious First Shaughnessy enclave boasting spectacular views of the city’s downtown skyline and North Shore Mountains. The architectural elegance and grandeur with its bold white brick exterior and beautiful landscape create an impressive majestic presence and features over eleven thousand three hundred square feet of formal and informal living on three expansive levels. Exquisite design, master craftsmanship and opulent finishes blend seamlessly to create an international masterpiece while embracing the security and convenience of today’s most up-to-date technology. More detailsListed by Luxmore Realty and Angell, Hasman & Associates (Malcolm Hasman) Realty Ltd. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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1318 MINTO Crescent in Vancouver: Shaughnessy House for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2697014
1318 MINTO Crescent Vancouver V6H 2J5
$24,800,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2697014
- Bedrooms:
- 5
- Bathrooms:
- 9
- Floor Area:
- 9,949 sq. ft.
Simply breathtaking! Rarely does a home of this caliber come to market. Situated on a stunning 26,581 sf corner property, you’ll immediately appreciate the privacy & the abundance of light that cascades into your garden & home. Enjoy the amenities of the south facing terrace & yard complete with pool, hot tub, cabana & games court. Relax, take in the ambiance of your surroundings & enjoy access to your expansive great room, chef’s kitchen & secondary kitchen. This 10,000 home features 5 bedrooms-four up-the primary room being your sanctuary from a busy day. Gym, recreation & golf room & fabulous attached garage. A majestic home that is second to none & strategically located to provide easy access to downtown Vancouver, the airport & the most prestigious schools. An extremely rare offering. More detailsListed by Faith Wilson Group - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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3689 SELKIRK Street in Vancouver: Shaughnessy House for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2662628
3689 SELKIRK Street Vancouver V6H 2Y9
$19,980,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2662628
- Bedrooms:
- 12
- Bathrooms:
- 12
- Floor Area:
- 12,586 sq. ft.
One of a kind Tudor Revival mansion is situated in the heart of Shaughnessy, built on a huge 39,596sf lot, fully renovated, respecting the original Turdor style and combining with the modern day comfort to satisfy the needs of a new owner, namely you. Main building features 4 lvls with 2 separate staircases, 9 bds, 12 bths, and extra high ceiling with its oak carved grand staircase at entrance to this magnificent home. Attached coach house has 3 bds, 2bths, own kitchen and private entry. Back patio comes with a beautiful rose pergola connecting to a lovely tea house in the end of the brick pathway. The backyard's high end BBQ equipment set is ideal for large groups gatherin. The unique elegant Heritage property with historical stories and fresh elements awaiting to entertain and spoil you. More detailsListed by Royal Pacific Realty Corp. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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1438 W 32ND Avenue in Vancouver: Shaughnessy House for sale in "ELEMENTS ESTATE" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2646764
1438 W 32ND Avenue Vancouver V6H 2J3
$19,980,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2646764
- Bedrooms:
- 7
- Bathrooms:
- 10
- Floor Area:
- 10,663 sq. ft.
“Elements Estate” - a multi-award-winning, opulent Shaughnessy home featuring 8 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms. Built by T.Jones Group in 2020, with 40+ years of experience building custom homes in Vancouver's West Side. Every detail of this home has been meticulously crafted and executed in partnership with Sublime Interior Design, guided by the five natural elements - fire, earth, water, metal, & wood, all coming together in this family retreat. Lush, mature hedges, and dense greenery surround the property for the utmost privacy. Internationally recognized chef’s kitchen. State-of-the-art outdoor entertainment set-up with outdoor kitchen, waterfalls, and spa. His & Her’s Master Ensuite. Award-winning basement features full bar, velvet-banquette, spa, gym, theatre, hot tub, and swimming pool. More detailsListed by Icon&co. Boutique Inc. and Macdonald Realty Westmar - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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1790 ANGUS Drive in Vancouver: Shaughnessy House for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2638982
1790 ANGUS Drive Vancouver V6J 4H5
$18,980,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2638982
- Bedrooms:
- 8
- Bathrooms:
- 4
- Floor Area:
- 7,818 sq. ft.
Here is the gem of the first Shaughnessy neighborhood, a stunning heritage mansion located on an expansive lot, 33105 sq. ft. lot. This elegant home offers a huge mature garden with a circular driveway in the front, a classic heritage mansion with three levels, lots of outdoor space. It also features: hardwood floors, stain-glass lead windows with high wood beam ceilings, entertainment size living room, spacious gourmet kitchen, eating area and family room. This is one of the only four lot that is over 30000 sq. ft. that is available on the market of the entire Shaughnessy area, a super rare opportunity to add to your real estate investment portfolio. Easy to show, book showings, now! More detailsListed by Pacific Evergreen Realty Ltd. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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1316 CONNAUGHT Drive in Vancouver: Shaughnessy House for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2694788
1316 CONNAUGHT Drive Vancouver V6H 2H3
$17,500,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2694788
- Bedrooms:
- 5
- Bathrooms:
- 7
- Floor Area:
- 9,615 sq. ft.
Spectacular Mansion in Shaughnessy!Gorgeous contemporary custom built in 2004, designed by famous designer, lots of renovation in 2018. Big lot of 19,301 sqft with 9,615 sqft luxurious living area: 5 bdrms, 1 den & 8 bathrooms. Modern & elegant, superb materials & craftsmanship. Gourmet kitchen with high end appliance. Upper level with 4 bedrooms, dream master suite w/oval ceiling, spa like ensuite & closet. Down has an ensuite. Home theatre with state of art AV system, wet bar, huge recreation room and wonderful indoor pool w/hot tub, steam, sauna & designer landscaped garden. Shaughnessy Elementary and Eric Hamber Secondary School catchment. Close to private schools. Exceptional home in Vancouver's finest neighbourhood! Must have choice! More detailsListed by Luxmore Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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1626 AVONDALE Avenue in Vancouver: Shaughnessy House for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2679910
1626 AVONDALE Avenue Vancouver V6M 1S1
$16,900,000Residential Detached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2679910
- Bedrooms:
- 5
- Bathrooms:
- 8
- Floor Area:
- 5,176 sq. ft.
True classic “San Francisco” home style! The exquisitely-appointed mansion in Shaughnessy, offers an open concept floor plan provides sleek & luxurious living of 5176 sqft, w/ custom design & state-of-the-art technology. Living room w/ its richly-detailed ceiling opens directly onto a south-facing resort-like terrace w/ built-in BBQ, swimming pool/jacuzzi, & garden. Class-worthy ktch w/ 3 person island &top-of-line appliances Miele. The top lvel provides 3 bdrms; mster bdrm w/ outfitted en-suite bathroom. The basement features 2 ensuited bdrms, steam/sauna rm, media & rec room w/ wet bar & wine cellular for more casual relaxation & exercise. Front yard with lush mature landscaping & cherry trees. This home is infused with serious quality in its design and workmanship. Showing by appt only. More detailsListed by Dracco Pacific Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
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