Plans to replace a historic home-turned-retail space with a multi-storey office complex have been shelved, Citified has learned.

 

Situated at 950 Fort Street near Vancouver Street, the property was formerly eyed for the future headquarters of Victoria-based architectural firm de Hoog Kierulf Architects, which is currently based out of a low-rise building immediately across the street.

 

de Hoog Kierulf’s development concept envisioned a modern design in place of the aged structure, although formal redevelopment plans were not released to the public.

 

The 1,137 square foot home, which was extensively renovated in 1999 and has operated as a retail space for decades, is currently listed for sale at a price of $1.3 million.

 

According to fire insurance plans available at the City of Victoria archives office, the small commercial storefront has existed at the site in essentially its present-day form since at least 1885, making it one of the earliest still-existing structures along upper Fort Street. However, the property's sales listing indicates a completion date of 1919 which may be in reference to a building alteration date.

 

The home was originally the residence of a Mr. John Charles Leask, who appeared to have arrived in Victoria in 1882 or 1883 as a teamster. Leask soon after established a tailoring business at the corner of Government and Fort streets.

 

The former residence has been a retail location for more than 70 years and has been occupied in previous decades by a dress maker, an antique dealer and a florist. C