The West End neighbourhood of the Canadian City of Vancouver in British Columbia is the area from Burrard Street west to Stanley Park at the extremity of the downtown peninsula and from West Georgia Street south to False Creek and English Bay. Adjacent neighbourhoods are Downtown east of Burrard Street and Coal Harbor north of Georgia.
History
The first area land purchasers planned in 1862 to mine for porcelain clays and establish a brickworks, but the local clay was unsuitable for that purpose. With the arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway, however, the West End soon became Vancouver’s first wealthy neighbourhood of rich railroad families along Georgia Street. As the city grew, the West End became a transitory place for new arrivals from elsewhere in Canada, the United Kingdom, and later other countries, establishing a neighbourhood history and tradition of diversity.
The rich moved on to Shaughnessy and other neighbourhoods early in the 20th century as new development brought in a more middle-class, transient population. Mansions converted to rooming houses, low-rise apartments appeared, and shops sprang up along the streetcar lines on Davie, Denman, and Robson streets. Following the Second World War, a significant German business community took root along Robson Street, “Robsonstrasse” in marketing parlance. The West End’s skyline soared in the ‘60s and early ’70s, when developers built 220 high-rise apartments in 13 years.
In 2001 the densely populated West End had 42,120 residents, 12 percent of whom were single-parent families compared to 17 percent for the entire city. The census population was 44,543 in 2011, a small decline from 44,556 in 2006. From 1971 to 2011, West End population increased by 19 percent as city overall population increased by 42 percent. At 48 percent, the 20–39 age group is the largest at a proportion much higher than that for the city overall, 34 percent. The neighbourhood has two elementary schools and a high school.
Amenities and Attractions
Parks and beaches are abundant around and throughout the West End. English Bay Beach is thronged during the annual summer Celebration of Light fireworks display. Stanley Park with 1,000 mostly forested acres is one of North America’s largest urban parks. Entirely encircled by the Seawall, a paved path that begins Downtown and follows the coast around Stanley Park through the West End and around False Creek to Granville Island for rollerblading, cycling, jogging, or pleasant walking, the park also has many miles of inland trails crisscrossing in every direction. The Vancouver Aquarium and a miniature railway attract many of Stanley Park’s 8 million annual visitors. At the northern end of the Park, Prospect Point provides spectacular vistas of the Lions Gate Bridge to the North Shore of the Burrard Inlet.
Another West End Real Estate Boom?
According to the Colliers Spring 2014 LandShare Report on rezoning and development applications in Metro Vancouver, a new community plan has raised development potential in the West End neighbourhood, which may be on the verge of a dramatic expansion of real estate density. The report points to recent purchases of two properties as the first of many probable high-value West End transactions since the community plan relaxed density restrictions in the Georgia Street corridor to permit maximum heights of 500 feet.
The most EXCLUSIVE PENTHOUSE in Vancouver – Alberni by Kengo Kuma PH1. 43-storey architectural masterpiece developed by Westbank will be the pinnacle building in the West End. Corner unit w/an UNPARALLELED 270-degree view of the city, mountains, and waterfront from all 3-levels with over 6,000 total Sq. Ft. The main level features an open concept kitchen w/white oak floors, stone countertops, professional Miele appliance package, two stately bedrooms and a large exterior patio highlighted by a Japanese Wet Garden. Take your private elevator to the 2nd floor and enter the grand loft, open to below with large family gathering room and the primary wing with royal walk-in-closet and Japanese garden. The rooftop entertainer’s dream space surrounds the private glass bottom pool, wet bar, and exterior lounge. Building amenities include an elite gym, pool and hot tub. Upgrades include 2-TWO stall private garages, 2 red wine storage, 2 white wine storage, 2 storage locker, 1 bicycle locker and custom interior upgrades.More details
The design of 1550 Alberni Street is shaped by its environment, by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, developed by Westbank, The 43-storey tower is carved by two emphatic scoops that form deep balconies furnished in wood. Home 3901 features a total of 3,027 Sq. Ft. with 2,140 Sq. Ft. of indoor space and 887 Sq. Ft. of outdoor space with three large bedrooms and three bathrooms. Extending off the primary bath is a Japanese soaking tub on the balcony, also known as an ofuro. Each home is designed with fully integrated Miele appliances and one-of-a-kind custom Kengo Kuma kitchen island. Interwoven layers of overlapping textures define the experience of Alberni. Residences will enjoy luxurious amenities and services such as 24-hour concierge, private wine-tasting room, art gallery, listening/music room, state-of-the-art fitness centre, and indoor swimming pool. The SOLD OUT world-renowned Alberni by Kengo Kuma. Upgrades include 2 Stall Private Garage, storage, bike storage and red & white wine storage.More details
Assignment of Contract of Purchase and Sale. Luxury Kengo Kuma on Alberni developed by Westbank Properties features Japanese moss garden, 25m pool, wine room, on-site Michelin starred Japanese restaurant, gym and music room. Stunning interiors offering elegant curved wood feature wall with unique style in each room. Beautiful Japanese stone gardens, Miele appliances, stone countertops. Huge wide open space with pently sunlight. East Facing corner unit overlooking 270 degree gorgeous view of city, mountains and waterfront. Walking distance to restaurants, shopping and Stanley Park. Photos & renderings are from developer's marketing material & may not represent actual size, layout & view.More details
Embark on a world-class luxury living experience at THE PATINA PENTHOUSE. With over 5200 SF of living space, this stunning suite offers unobstructed views of English Bay, North Shore Mountains, Stanley Park, and Mt. Baker. Witness mesmerizing sunsets from the expansive 2000+ SF ROOF TOP PATIO, a premier outdoor sanctuary featuring built-in BBQs and a cozy fireplace. This suite sets itself apart with unique features, such as a rare 1700 bottle wine cellar and scotch tasting room. The Primary suite surprises with a hidden screen and projector, while the La Scala sound system elevates the ambiance. Situated in Downtown Vancouver, immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture with high-end shopping on Alberni Street and Michelin-grade restaurants just steps away. Experience the epitome of luxury at THE PATINA PENTHOUSE.More details
PENTHOUSE COLLECTION at The Patina. This 02 Unit on the subpenhouse level offers unobstructed views to English Bay, N. Shore mountains & cityscapes from every room. Near 3000 sqft sf of luxury living space, designer elevated interior with fabulous layout which is rare to find. Half of the unit is the living area which contains the Grand living & dining room, Snaidero kitchen w/breakfast bar features Subzero & Miele appliances, wine fridge & cappuccino maker, a powder room & office/media room. Another half has 3 bedrooms, ALL ENSUITE, with an Impressive master w/a zen library/den & exquisite ensuite wrapped in marble & exotic wood w/ floating vanity. 10’ ceilings, Nuheat, A/C, power blinds and smart home light. 3 parkings. Amenities include 24 hr. Concierge, lounge, gym & roof garden.More details
Welcome to the Penthouse at Eventide. Located on the waters edge of English Bay, with unobstructed ocean views and breathtaking sunsets, this iconic home is one of the most unique and luxurious properties Vancouver has to offer. Occupying the top two floors of a boutique concrete low-rise, this spacious 3000+ sqft home also features one of the best rooftop decks in the city complete with outdoor kitchen. The top floor living space is an entertainer’s dream with 9’ floor to ceiling windows showing off the view from every angle. Sophisticated kitchen is highlighted with Boffi cabinetry, Corian counters, Gaggenau and Sub-Zero appliance package. Amenities include an elevator, A/C, in-floor radiant heat, 2 parking, and storage. A true masterpiece that must be viewed to appreciate in full.More details
Mirabel is positioned to take advantage of incredible sunsets of English Bay. The penthouse offers a blend of indoor/outdoor living, featuring two over sized balconies and a stunning roof deck offering 360° views of downtown, North Shore Mountains, Stanley Park, English Bay and beyond. The expansive floor plan spans a full half floor, offers 3 bedrooms all with ensuite baths and two living areas. Interiors by Alda Pereira are sophisticated, neutral and a timeless palette. The kitchen features cabinets by Armony Cucine and is equipped with Wolf, Sub Zero and Bosch appliances. Additional features include: spa bathrooms, automated blinds and a two car private garage. Walking distance to English Bay, Stanley Park. GST included.More details
1818 Alberni by Foad Rafii. Experience an elevated luxury living offered by our intimate collection of 54 residences with views of water, mountains, Stanley Park, and cityscape. Nestled in Vancouver's coveted neighbourhood, just steps away from Coal Harbour Marina, Stanley Park, restaurants, and urban conveniences. We welcome you to have a private tour of our display home showcasing a signature Italian kitchen and an impressive wok kitchen, Wolf & Sub-Zero appliances, a lavish primary ensuite, and premium interior finishes. Learn about the smart technologies such as the Bang & Olufsen, 1valet, and Latch integrated systems, and a range of uncompromising services including Rolls-Royce chauffeur, in addition to the daily concierge service. *5% GST on us!More details
Looking for the ultimate sub-penthouse in the coveted West End, this Alexandra right at English Bay Beach is your answer. Each room frames awe-inspiring vistas, none more captivating than the 800 sq. ft. terrace! With an open living/dining space overlooking the ocean, Stanley Park & beyond to Van. Island, the scenery is the dynamic ever-changing art for your daily pleasure. From the breath-taking view on entering, to the elegance felt throughout, this one of the finest homes you'll see! 4 bdms, each w/balconies, 4 bathrooms offer plenty of space for living. Gorgeous kitchen-top of the line appliances (Sub-zero, Miele, Wolf), 2 ovens, huge island & bonus walk in pantry make preparing meals and entertaining a dream. Lots of extras, like surround sound, built-ins, private garage, & expansive storage provide convenience all can appreciate. All this is steps to the seawall, English Bay beach and more. Such a rare unique combination, the value is evident. This opportunity beckons for those with discerning taste.More details
Mirabel is positioned for incredible views of sunsets of English Bay. The penthouse offers a blend of indoor/outdoor living, featuring two oversized balconies and a stunning roof deck offering 360° views of downtown, North Shore Mountains, Stanley Park, English Bay and beyond. The expansive floor plan spans a full half floor, offers 3 bedrooms all with ensuite baths and two living areas. Interiors by Alda Pereira are sophisticated, neutral and a timeless palette. The kitchen features cabinets by Armony Cucine and is equipped with Wolf, Sub Zero and Bosch appliances. Additional features include: spa bathrooms, automated blinds and two car private garage. Walking distance to English Bay, Stanley Park. GST included!More details