A sale has been concluded for the former home of Jim Pattison, located at 1448 Argyle, with the new owner planning to carefully remove and relocate the house by barge, at no cost to the District. The house holds great historical value within the West Vancouver community, and it is a positive step to see it repurposed for another use.
Upon removal, the house will be temporarily stored by the purchaser, until an appropriate new location within the Vancouver area is identified and prepared. The relocation of the house is not merely logistical, as it is an opportunity to preserve the historical significance of the property.
Once the yellow house finds its new permanent home, it will be placed into a charitable trust. The aim of this trust is to restore the house to its original architectural period, ensuring that it retains its historical authenticity. The significance of this project extends far beyond the preservation of the house itself, as it will have a new life as a centre providing bereavement counseling for residents of Metro Vancouver.
The history of the property and its surroundings goes back to the mid-70s when Council first passed resolutions for the Argyle Acquisition Policy, allowing the District to acquire all private properties from 18th Street to Ambleside Park. The purpose behind this acquisition was to create a significant open space for the community to enjoy.
Once the house has been removed, the area will be converted into more waterfront park space, offering residents and visitors a beautiful area to relax, play, and appreciate the natural beauty of the West Vancouver waterfront.