Abstract Developments’ newest condominium offering has been unveiled Esquimalt’s overlooking the scenic Gorge Waterway.

 

Known as Central Block (see website), the six-storey attainably-priced landmark project will rise at the entrance to Esquimalt Gorge Park on the former site of Tillicum Road’s Gorge Pointe Pub, and a stone’s throw from the Gorge Vale Golf Club.

 

Comprised of 99 suites priced from the mid-$300,000s and ground floor commercial units, Central Block’s one, two and three-bedroom homes (plus junior and den options) will appeal to purchasers with sights on a home close to parkland, in walking distance to amenities, and proximity to Victoria’s most iconic natural water feature.

 

“Locals have considered Esquimalt’s Tillicum Road corridor and the Gorge Park community as hidden secrets for generations,” says Tavish Rai, Abstract Developments’ Executive Vice-President. 

 

“Central Block’s location in an amenity-rich and historic part of Esquimalt sets it apart from other condominiums in the market, and lends it to being one of the most unique homebuying opportunities in Greater Victoria. It is exceptionally rare for condominiums to be situated along the Gorge Waterway, and in such a walkable, established urban area,” Rai continued.

 

Central Block’s desirable address (at 1075 Tillicum Road) and its market-leading architectural presence will be matched by professionally curated interiors from award-winning i3 Interior Design, delivering an aesthetic to each home that is fresh and modern, while efficient on space and timeless for its finishings.

 

Each residence opens to nine foot over-height ceilings in living areas to one of two distinct interior colour palettes (available in light and medium tones) with six accent colours to choose from, and luxurious durable wide plank oak laminate vinyl hardwood flooring sets the tone for material quality (plush, premium carpets are standard in bedrooms).

 

State-of-the-art double-glazed vinyl windows provide plenty of natural light, while full opacity black-out shades control ambiance in bedrooms. Contemporary white roller shades are included throughout each home, including over patio doors that open to a range of patio styles and sizes, or ground level private gardens.

 

Kitchens are functional and bright, with thick quartz countertops as the centrepiece, plus a custom feature wall and a backsplash. Chic flat-panel soft-close cabinetry is under-cabinet lighting equipped, and the stainless steel single or double-bowl under-mount sink is paired to a matte black faucet complementing a high-end stainless steel appliance package.

 

Custom millwork adds to the spa-like experience in bathrooms made uniquely distinct through a floating vanity below a circular mirror, motion-censored cabinet lighting is standard for each home, and a thick quartz counter is mated to a custom backsplash. Deep profile soaker tubs and/or showers are accented by hand-set grey custom floor tiles.

 

An interior rendering of a residence at Central Block. The project's 99-suites are priced from the mid-$300,000s

 

In terms of build quality, Rai says Central Block will take full advantage of Abstract’s more than two decades of experience overseeing a wide range of development styles, that include luxury condominiums in Rockland, luxury townhomes throughout the south Island, and up-market condominiums like Fifteen88 in Saanich and Bowker Collection in Oak Bay.

 

“At every Abstract community, we use the best practices developed over 20-plus years of new and custom home construction to provide our purchasers peace of mind, and trend-setting conveniences,” Rai said, adding that “in terms of privacy and ambiance, Central Block will be built with high quality floor assemblies comprised of a concrete topping and acoustic insulation, and to take full advantage of the Gorge Waterway, we’re providing kayak or paddleboard storage in addition to bicycle storage and storage lockers.”

 

Parking will be in the form of a secure underground parkade, including spaces for visitors, and owners will have the opportunity to upgrade their stalls for electric vehicle charging. A Modo car-share membership will be available to every residence and will be transferable between owners. An electric Modo vehicle will be parked near Central Block’s main entrance for added convenience. 

 

Amenities, meanwhile, are designed to be practical and responsive to today’s changing needs. Central Block’s Portage Commons will be an indoor space suitable for co-working or group events, with break-out rooms, a kitchenette and workstations. Outside, Portage Garden will provide residents with a private outdoor relaxation and zen experience that has multiple seating areas for private or group settings. And the Portage Rooftop, according to Rai, will be magnificent.

 

"The beauty of the waterway, and the urban canopy of Esquimalt, will be on full display for every resident as part of our Portage Rooftop, which will be a one-of-a-kind amenity for entertaining, grilling, and taking in stunning views, sunrises and sunsets," Rai said.

 

Fresh on the heels of Abstract’s sales effort for Cadence (a nearly sold-out condominium in Saanich’s upper Quadra area), the pre-sale campaign for Central Block is getting underway at the developer’s new Home Store presentation centre at 3198 Douglas Street, where purchasers can preview Central Block’s finishings, floorplans and speak with the sales team.

 

Construction for Central Block will get underway later this year. Occupancy is targeted for mid-2024.

 

On the pricing front, the exclusive first release of homes sees junior one-bedroom layouts available from the mid-$300,000s, and one-bedrooms from the high $400,000s. Two-bedroom homes are priced from the high $500,000s and three-bedroom floorplans are starting in the low $800,000s.

 

To learn more about homeownership opportunities at Central Block, and to view the project’s official sales website, click here. To connect with a sales representative, call 250-590-5130 to book your private viewing of the Central Block presentation centre at the Douglas Street Home Store. C

 

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