1244 Wharf St
Building Info
2 storey new addition and restoration and seismic upgrading of existing heritage building (note - Cascadia Architects are currently working on a new designs featuring 4 or 5 additional storeys).
The proposed renovation and addition will create 52 residential / hotel units distributed from levels 2 to 7 - the building slopes towards the water so the appearance of the original building at Wharf street is 3 storeys
Bicycle/unit storage spaces, and service / garbage rooms at level 1 below Wharf Street.
A commercial retail or food and beverage unit will be re-established at the Wharf Street level.
Developer
Developer Project Website
Architect
Architect Project Website
Context
Originally built in 1882 by architect John Teague with two later additions up until 1896.
Original use was as dry good supplier for Turner, Beeton & Company Ltd., then W.H. Malkin, grocers; McQuade's Ship Chandlers. In recent times it was a popular seafood restaurant Chandlers and then as a pub called The Guild. The restaurant portion is now unoccupied.
City of Victoria Development Tracker
Status
In March 2024 the City provided feedback re: a Heritage Alteration Permit with Variances application to construct a two storey addition to an existing building. Currently sits with developer for next steps.
On May 2, 2026 Cascadia Architects held an open house reception at the 1244 Wharf Street where they shared one possible revision of the development plans featuring a five-storey modern addition. Architect Andy Guiry indicated they are working on new plans and having discussions with the City as a two storey addition is not economically viable to support the restoration work and creation of new housing units. They are looking at a 4 or 5 storey modern addition and emphasized that the building has been modified several times early in its history and they would like to see the Wyland's whale mural restored/repainted as part of the restoration process.
Media and Images
