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.
Over 10,000+sf MASTERPIECE designed by Loy Leyland and constructed by COPA development on a fengshui friendly 18000sf property in the heart of 1st Shaughessy. Soaring double height foyer & living rm; dining rm extended to a covered O/D patio, gourmet kitchens equipped w/top of the line appliances, walnut panelled office + 1bdrm w/ensuite on the main; 4 ensuited bdrms upstairs: the huge master has its own sitting area, waterbar, large WIC and a spa like ensuite bathroom; the other 3 bdrms share a huge O/D balcony. Bsmt boasts I/D pool w/jacuzzi, movie theatre, wine cellar, wetbar, rec rm & an extra bdrm. Circular driveway in the front & 3 car garage in the back. Close to top schools, short drive to DT, YVR & UBC. Occupancy Permit: Nov.30, 2023. 2-5-10 new home warranty.More details
This European Inspired luxury estate residence is situated on a prized .53 acre view property in the Vancouver’s 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 majestic presence and features over 11,300 sf of formal and informal living on 3 expansive levels. Exquisite design, master craftsmanship together with an impeccable choice of quality materials blend seamlessly to create an international masterpiece while embracing the security and convenience of today’s most up-to-date technology. Experience one of the most beautiful luxury homes in the city garage parking for 4 vehicles.More details
Listed by Angell, Hasman & Associates (Malcolm Hasman) Realty Ltd. and Luxmore Realty
WORLD CLASS custom built First Shaughnessy Mansion just off "The Crescent" on the most prestigious part of Osler Street, painstakingly crafted by first owner & lovingly cared for by current long term second owner. Renowned Architect Loy Leyland, Master Builder John Blackmore & Interior Designer Joey Chan. 103x229=23,630sf beautifully landscaped; close to 10,000sf of luxurious living w/ superior quality, elegant interior, bright & open floor plan. 6 spacious bdrms (all ensuite) + 2 offices. City & mountain VIEWs from master bdrm w/ open deck. Dream kitchen w/ top notch appliances & wok kitchen. Breakfast nook & family rm overlooks "stand alone" indoor swimming pool & hot tub area. Spanish Stone Slate Roof. Fully fenced mature garden w/ heated circular driveway to 4-car garage at rear.More details
1233 Tecumseh, an architectural masterpiece w/ architecture by The Airey Group, interiors by HB Design & landscaping by Paul Sangha. Blending the 1922 heritage mansion facade w/ new extensions juxtapose contemporary & traditional styling. Spanning 11,567 sf & comprised of 7 bedrms & 11 bathrms incl. the auxiliary building. This estate features a covered terrace, infinity pool, outdoor kitchen & koi pond. Inside, the kitchen boasts a French La CORNUE Chateau Supreme oven, stove & adjacent chef’s kitchen. The primary bedrm features a f/p, 5-piece en-suite & dressing rm. A full-wall Koi aquarium w/ lounge, media rm, glass wine/cognac cellar, billiards room, wet bar, gym, massage studio on the lower w/ an elevator serving all 3 levels. Rarely does an offering of such quality become available.More details
Situated in Vancouver's esteemed 1st Shaughnessy district, this expansive 100' x 200' corner estate lot is a prime opportunity for developers. The property is primed for redevelopment, offering a highly coveted space for constructing an upscale townhomes or premium condo units. Currently, a modern, fully-renovated 5,350 sqft home resides on the property, potentially providing a steady stream of income. Close to UBC and top-ranked schools, the lot is an attractive investment for those looking to capitalize on its location and zoning benefits. This property presents a straightforward path to a high-value redevelopment project.More details
Listed by Macdonald Commercial Real Estate Services Ltd.
Luxurious custom built world class mansion in most prestigious FIRST SHAUGHNESSY area! Superior standards with high quality materials, workmanship & appliances on a sensational open floor plan sprawled over 4 levels. Situated on a large lot 14,659 SF, boasts 6260 SF elegant living space. This beautiful home with professional exterior and interior design, offers Gourmet Chef's Kitch w/high-end cabinetry and all top brand appls, delightful eating area with cozy bay windows; Master bdrm is oversized with walk in closet and spa like ensuite. Eclipse French Drs, inset panelling, Wine Cellar, Media rm, swimming pool, Jaccuzi & outdoor Cabana. Beautiful landscaped garden. Meticulous attention to detail. Truly a masterpiece of craftsmanship & architectural splendour.More details
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. Close to private schools. Exceptional home in Vancouver's finest neighbourhood! Must have choice! School Zone: Shaughnessy Elementary, Eric Hamber Secondary School.More details
Rarely does an estate home like this come available, designed by renowned architect Arthur Erickson. CONCRETE construction earthquake proof home in prestigious first Shaughnessy neighbourhood. Classic and modem interior, simple and elegant, high ceiling grand foyer is entranced by an exquisite antique crystal chandalier. All bedrooms have deluxe ensuites. The kitchen with its beautiful wood cabinets and top appliances. Downstairs has an incredible home theatre. The music room is soundproof and the maid's room has its own 4 piece bath. Backyard is beautifully landscaped and has a quality built saltwater swimming pool. The circular front driveway allows for easy entrance and exit. A pleasure to show!More details
Classic Shaughnessy Mansion. Over 33,000 SqFt of mature garden with the circular driveway, you'll find this elegant Home offering loads of character and charm. Inlaid hardwood floors, stain-glass lead windows & high wood beam ceilings. Entertainment-size living room and dining room. Updated gourmet kitchen with eating area and fireplace. 7 spacious bedrooms Up. Balcony overlooks huge front yard and a view far up to mountain & North Vancouver. Act now and own this estate.More details
Boasting over 18,000 square feet of meticulously maintained and landscaped grounds, this residence is a true gem. The residence comprises a total of six bedrooms, each offering the luxury of an ensuite bathroom. The chef and wok kitchens are thoughtfully designed to cater to culinary enthusiasts, while a dedicated gym and a media room provide spaces for recreation and entertainment. The built-in garage ensures convenient parking, and a custom media system is seamlessly integrated throughout the property. The covered outdoor swimming pool allows residents to relax while enjoying the picturesque view of the lush backyard.More details