Shaughnessy: Historic Mansions and Luxury Real Estate on Vancouver’s West Side
Known for its elegant tree-lined boulevards and distinguished luxury properties, Shaughnessy is one of Vancouver’s most coveted neighbourhoods. This affluent community in central Vancouver is home to some of the city’s finest heritage mansions and a robust luxury real estate market that appeals to both local and international buyers. Many of the luxury properties in Shaughnessy were built before or during the Second World War, especially in the First Shaughnessy neighbourhood which has been designated as a heritage area by the city of Vancouver. Carriage Trade homes for sale in Shaughnessy include historic properties and modern estates listed at over $3 million, however the average listing price in 2017 was around $7 million.
The Neighbourhood
Shaughnessy is one of Vancouver’s west side neighbourhoods, located near the centre of the city. The area is almost entirely residential and stretches from 16th Avenue to the north to 41st Avenue to the south, from Arbutus Street in the west to Oak Street in the east. The neighbourhood was built by in the early 20th century by Canadian Pacific Railway, the largest real estate developer in Canada at the time. As a result, the neighbourhood was named for Thomas Shaughnessy, a former president of Canadian Pacific Railway.
The neighbourhood developed as some of Vancouver’s prominent families began building classical and Tudor Revival-style homes in the area. Shaughnessy’s curving streets and charming parks were meticulously planned to allow residents to have an escape from the noise and congestion of the city.
With huge mansions sitting on large lots of 60 feet or more, Shaughnessy has one of the lowest population densities in Vancouver with roughly 9,000 people spread across over 447 hectares of land. Growth in the area is limited due to building restrictions designed to maintain the elegance and tranquil beauty of the neighbourhood.
The Golf
Golfers in Shaughnessy can choose from one of a number of courses resting on the banks of the Fraser River, a short drive south. The exclusive Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club ranks as one of Canada’s top golf courses and has hosted the Canadian Open several times. The club’s renovated clubhouse offers magnificent views of the South Lawn and the ocean.
The prestigious Point Grey Golf and Country Club caters to some of Vancouver’s elite with its impressive facilities. Its golf course capitalizes on the gorgeous scenery of the Fraser River and the distant mountains. The course has a rich history with many modern flourishes, and has hosted a number of championship competitions.
Seasoned golfers will want to play a round at the Marine Drive Golf Club, recognized as an especially challenging course. In fact, the 17th hole was ranked as one of the most difficult of any Canadian golf course. If you need help bringing down your handicap, Marine Drive offers golf lessons with professionals at the top of their game.
The Clubs
The Arbutus Club, located between the esteemed neighbourhoods of Shaughnessy and Kerrisdale, is a members only club with a range of programming. This modern recreation facility offers recreational, athletic, social, and cultural activities. The Arbutus Club’s seven-acre property has 12 tennis courts, a full sized hockey rink, a curling rink, five squash courts, and a full fitness centre.
Shaughnessy is also home to the historic University Women’s Club of Vancouver which advocates for education and increasing opportunities for women. The group refurbished an Edwardian mansion, Hycroft, located just steps from Shaughnessy Park, which now serves as their clubhouse. Throughout the year, the club hosts a variety of events including stimulating talks, fashion shows, themed dinners, and concerts.
The Parks
In addition to several public parks, the VanDusen botanical garden is located in Shaughnessy. Established on the grounds of the old Shaughnessy Golf Course, the garden covers 55 acres of land and features plants from around the world with totem poles, sculptures, and water features scattered around the grounds.
The Schools
Students in Shaughnessy can choose between several reputable private schools. The York House School is a renowned all-girls’ school with an extremely high university acceptance rate. Parents who wish to have their children study a Catholic educational curriculum can choose the Little Flower Academy for girls, or Vancouver College for boys. Shaughnessy’s Vancouver Talmud Torah is an educational institution for Jewish students in the neighbourhood and throughout the city.
Carriage Trade Homes
For expert advice about luxury real estate in Shaughnessy or buying and selling a Carriage Trade luxury property in Vancouver, contact Royal LePage Sussex or Royal LePage Westside.
