At first glance the renderings for the Emerson, 14-unit condo building coming to 1015 Rockland Ave., suggest a renovated apartment building from Victoria’s earlier generation of brick buildings.
The Emerson is in fact new (construction doesn’t begin until June) and is designed with a heritage feel to pay homage to the Rockland of old. It’s also a departure of sorts for Abstract Developments, offering up their most affordable condo units to date.
“In this case there were no specific restrictions that affected our design outside of the density and height limits of downtown Victoria,” said Sam Ganong, the vice president of development with Abstract. “The community plan actually calls for up to approximately six stories, but that would have been out of contrast with the surrounding neighbourhood.”
The first five of the 14 units have been released for presale, with one already gone.
The Emerson will feature high end finishing, typical with Abstract projects.
There are three one bedroom suites with 1.5 bathrooms and den, 650 sq. ft., starting from $349,900. There are seven two-bedroom units with two bathrooms, ranging from 705 to 770 sq. ft., starting from $374,900, and there are four units with two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a den, ranging from 985 to 1,000 sq. ft., starting from $504,900.
“Again, the finishings are high end, we pride ourselves on delivering a higher quality products because we feel it gives us an advantage in the market,” Ganong said.
Optimizing the most of the space is paramount and Abstract is always sure to pack a few tricks up their sleeves. Three of the suites feature a sliding dining table that disappears into the kitchen counter, something Mad Men’s Roger Stirling would surely covet.
Parking is partially covered for 11 of the units, while the building will feature a full height basement, with bicycle and secure storage lockers that fits two bikes.
The end date for the construction is approximately the summer of 2016.
“We thought this project has a huge opportunity to attract broader market base, delivering a refined specialize offering, which is one ofthe primary reasons we looked at this project,” Ganong said.
“It’s on the edge of downtown, a quiet tree lined street, and it’s aimed at an older demographic, bringing to market an affordable Abstract product.”
Abstract is better known for one bedroom-condos in the $450,000 range, which has Ganong excited about the Emerson.
Looking into the future a little bit, each suite comes with a Modo Co-op car share membership.
Emerson features
Quartz kitchen countertops
Custom herringbone tile backsplash
Heated tile floor in ensuite bathrooms
Custom millwork throughout
Deluxe stainless steel appliance package
White Oak hardwood flooring in main living area
Overheight ceilings and windows
Open concept main living areas
Optional 50-inch fireplace with millwork detail
reporter@saanichnews.com