A six-storey Gorge Waterway-view condominium under construction at the former location of Esquimalt’s Gorge Pointe Pub will reach occupancy by early spring, developer Abstract says, as brand new display home tours showcase the project’s refined finishings and quality workmanship.

 

Known as Central Block, the 99-suite mid-rise (see profile; see website) got underway in 2023 at 1075 Tillicum Road with a collection of junior one-bedroom through three-bedroom homes, and ground floor retail spaces suited to coffee shops or boutique cafés.

 

Situated along a key transit corridor connecting CFB Esquimalt to the University of Victoria via Tillicum Road and Esquimalt’s town centre, Central Block has generated significant interest among a wide spectrum of purchasers looking for an urban residence with water and parkland views, as well as walkability to nearby grocery, retail and recreational amenities.

 

“Homebuyers are increasingly choosing urban communities in Victoria’s core that are not necessarily in busy, high density neighbourhoods, and are instead placing a greater emphasis on nearby parkland, outdoor recreation and views of natural spaces,” says Abstract Developments CEO, Tavish Rai. “Our purchasers have really resonated with Central Block’s location specifically for its immediate proximity to Esquimalt Gorge Park, the adjacent Gorge Waterway, and short walking distance to Gorge Vale Golf Course and a large retail plaza just across the Tillicum Road Bridge,” Rai adds.

 

With homes priced from $384,900 and a wide assortment of floorplans still available in one, two and three-bedroom configurations, Central Block represents one of the best values for pre-sales in Victoria’s central neighbourhoods, where many suites include Gorge Waterway views, unobstructed vistas over Esquimalt’s lush urban canopy, and an expanse of parkland right across the street. And in recent days, Abstract has started welcoming prospective buyers to display home tours on-site, to preview nearly finished product by-appointment.

 

A completed display suite is now available for tours at Central Block, nearing completion at 1075 Tillicum Road in Esquimalt.  Abstract Developments

 

Transportation options are many at Central Block’s location, served by several transit routes that include a direct connection to CFB Esquimalt and UVic, as well as downtown Victoria, Tillicum Shopping Centre, Uptown Shopping Centre and Esquimalt Road’s eclectic retail strip.

 

A protected cycling path runs along the building’s frontage on Tillicum Road, connected to Esquimalt and Gorge roads, and feeding into protected lanes towards downtown Victoria or the West Shore via the E&N Rail Trail.

 

Central Block’s homes open to nine foot over-height ceilings in living areas to one of two distinct interior colour palettes (available in clean white and warm grey 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.

 

In terms of amenities, communal areas will be practical and responsive to today’s changing needs. The ‘Portage Commons’ is 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.

 

A view to the east from Central Block over the Gorge Waterway, with downtown Victoria beyond. All residents at Central Block will have access to the Portage Rooftop, a top floor amenity space with views of the Gorge, Esquimalt Gorge Park, and Esquimalt's lush urban canopy.  Abstract Developments

 

Elise Virtue, Senior Sales Associate with Abstract, says Central Block’s amenity package is one of the most refined on the market, thanks to its tangible, value-focused benefits for residents and investors.

 

“We are so fortunate to have the beautiful Gorge Waterway on our doorstep, where every resident, regardless of which suite they live in, can enjoy amazing views from a well appointed rooftop amenity area,” Virtue says. “And work-from-home is top-of-mind for our design team, through a focus on meaningful work spaces that will allow professionals to seamlessly bridge in-office needs when working from home. There is significant value to a robust amenity package, and we believe Central Block is ahead of the curve for its adoption of changing social trends and expectations.”

 

Of Central Block’s two ground level commercial spaces, one unit has sold and one remains available for purchase, Virtue confirms, adding that interest in the spaces has drawn established local business operators and organizations looking to secure a modern retail presence in Esquimalt.

 

Meanwhile, Abstract’s Gorge-view ‘Brooke’ townhomes, underway nearby in the 600-block of Gorge Road West in Saanich, are a short stroll from Central Block, west of Tillicum Road. The three and four-bedroom residences, part of Abstract’s region-wide Townhome Collection, are expected to complete next year.

 

For purchasers in search of move in-ready Townhome Collection purchase opportunities, Abstract’s ‘Willow + Glen’ community along Sooke Road near Jacklin Road presents a family-focused, competitively-priced three and four-bedroom option for buyers on the West Shore. And ‘Greyson’ in Saanich just off Boleskine Road near Uptown Shopping Centre, is also move-in ready, with three and four-bedroom homes in a central neighbourhood within Victoria’s urban core.

 

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 homes at Central Block. C

 

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