A groundbreaking ceremony was held along the Gorge Waterway last week for Central Block (see website), a six-storey, 99-suite condominium project from Victoria homebuilder Abstract Developments.

 

Coming to 1075 Tillicum Road opposite Esquimalt Gorge Park, Abstract’s newest construction launch officially began with developer Mike Miller and the company’s CEO, Tavish Rai, on hand to celebrate another Abstract milestone.

 

“This is such an exciting moment for our homebuyers and the Abstract team, to celebrate the launch of our inaugural Esquimalt residences, and to be part of the active transportation plan that’s developing along Tillicum Road,” Rai said.

 

Central Block’s Sales Manager Jessica Russel says the groundbreaking ceremony is both a nod to Abstract’s commitment to the local housing market, and a recognition that even amid changing economic conditions, Greater Victoria remains a desirable place to call home.

 

“With ongoing excitement in the market, we’ve welcomed a growing number of visitors to our Douglas Street Home Store where our Sales Team has been matching prospective purchasers to homes, as the Construction Team has been working diligently to prepare the project for construction,” Russel says, adding that “a key element to Central Block’s success has been its ideal location close to a variety of walkable amenities, such as Esquimalt Gorge Park and the Gorge Waterway, and also benefiting from excellent transit connections.”

 

Comprised of junior one-bedroom through three-bedroom layouts, Central Block’s home offerings have drawn a wide spectrum of purchasers, from end-users seeking downsizing opportunities in a niche location adjacent to parkland and along the waterfront, to first time homebuyers looking for high value pre-sale opportunities, and investors, with an eye to future use for children or in retirement, or as homes available to the rental market.

 

Central Block's Portage Rooftop is a public amenity space available to residents, with views onto the picturesque Gorge Waterway and downtown Victoria beyond.  Abstract Developments

 

Priced from $353,900, Central Block remains a value leader among the Capital’s pre-sale condominiums. Each home’s designer-curated layout and millwork finishings take advantage of up-market trends expected at an Abstract-designed project to not only deliver leading interiors today, but to give purchasers long-lasting peace of mind.

 

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. Luxurious durable wide plank oak-inspired vinyl hardwood flooring sets the tone for material quality (plush, premium carpets are standard in bedrooms).

 

Efficient use of space yields thoughtful function, and each layout’s smart interiors feature double-door entry into closets (from bedrooms and entryways), and full-height built-in pantries to make the most of the urban floorplans. Large windows and terrace entrances fill homes with natural daylight, perfectly framing parkland, urban and Gorge views beyond.

 

A exterior rendering of Central Block, now under construction at 1075 Tillicum Road in Esquimalt.  Abstract Developments

 

In terms of amenities, communal areas will be practical and responsive to today’s changing needs. The ‘Portage Commons’ will be an indoor space suitable for co-working or group events, in addition to break-out rooms, a kitchenette and workstations. Outside, the ‘Portage Gardens’ is a private outdoor relaxation and zen experience that has multiple seating areas for private or group settings. And picture perfect views from atop the ‘Portage Rooftop’ are paired with a large entertaining and gathering space that features an outdoor kitchen and barbecue.

 

The mid-rise will include a ground level commercial unit available for lease, and underground secure parking will provide spaces for residents and visitors.

 

Meanwhile, Abstract’s 2021 pre-sale release is progressing quickly on upper Quadra Street in Saanich. Six-storey Cadence, nearly sold-out of its 77 homes, marks Abstract’s second Saanich condominium project following Fifteen88's 2021 completion along North Dairy Road. And most recently built by Abstract is Sparrow, a six-storey, 49-home condominium on Cook Street at Hillside Avenue in Victoria that reached occupancy earlier this year.

 

To learn more about homeownership opportunities at Central Block, 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