A landmark condominium project coming soon to Esquimalt’s Gorge Waterway is now selling one, two and three-bedroom residences with ‘junior’ floorplan options.

 

Central Block, from Victoria-based developer Abstract Developments (see website), is comprised of 99 suites at pricing from $339,900. Nearly 40% of Central Block’s inventory is priced below $500,000 and over 80% of homes are available from under $750,000.

 

Slated to begin construction next March, the six-storey Central Block will rise in the former location of the Gorge Pointe Pub opposite Gorge Park’s Tillicum Road entrance, offering unimpeded views of the picturesque Gorge Waterway from many homes, and park, city and urban canopy views from most units.

 

“In terms of location, views and transport options, Central Block checks all of the key aspects of condominium living in Victoria,” said Tavish Rai, Abstract Developments’ Executive Vice-President. “The site also benefits from nearby commercial amenities, like a grocery store, a BC Liquor Store and dining options just a short stroll away, making a car-lite lifestyle an easy choice,” Rai continued.

 

BC Transit services connect downtown Victoria, CFB Esquimalt, Saanich’s Uptown area and the University of Victoria. Frequent bus connections provide easy access to Tillicum Shopping Centre, Uptown Shopping Centre, and Esquimalt’s town centre, including multiple schools and the nearby Gorge Vale Golf Club.

 

With introductory pricing below $340,000, the project represents great value for the Capital’s urban core, while delivering rich interiors that feature up-market finishings, desirable material choices and light-filled floorplans.

 

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). Window coverings are included throughout, with black-out blinds in primary bedrooms.

 

Kitchens are functional and bright, with quartz countertops and a feature wall accent in one of six designer colours. Chic flat-panel soft-close cabinetry is equipped with under-cabinet lighting, 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.

 

A rendering of an interior living space at Central Block. The light-filled homes will enjoy views of the iconic Gorge Waterway and Esquimalt's lush urban canopy.  Abstract Developments

 

Thoughtfully designed 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.

 

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 high-end 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 one-to-one bicycle storage.”

 

Portage Garden is a private outdoor space at Central Block, and part of a comprehensive amenity package for residents.  Abstract Developments

 

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 a sight to see.

 

"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 must-see 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), sales at Central Block are underway at the developer’s Home Store presentation centre at 3198 Douglas Street, where purchasers can view Central Block’s finishings, floorplans and speak with the sales team.

 

Construction for Central Block will begin next spring, and occupancy is targeted for 2024.

 

On the pricing front, junior one-bedroom layouts are available from $339,900, and one-bedrooms from the upper $400,000s. Two-bedroom homes are priced from the upper $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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