626 Monterey Avenue - A Mondern Masterpiece

Enjoy this short video showcasing this one of a kind home by beSEA Photo

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this House for sale, 626 Monterey Avenue, Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

Unlock the door to the extraordinary! Located just steps from the beach in prestigious South Oak Bay, this modern masterpiece was built in 1935, reimagined by its owners and renovated in 2017 by renowned Point Break Developments, excites the senses and truly is a unique work of art. Choosing natural, organic and sustainable materials, master craftsmen and artisans curated a home of exceptional quality, nourishing the soul and supporting physical and mental well being, in harmony with nature. Offering three luxurious levels of living for the environmentally conscious couple, seeking state of the art amenities, the home is ideal for indoor outdoor living from its sensational gourmet kitchen and expansive open floor plan to the spacious walk-out deck, inviting alfresco fêtes. Among The unusual features is a totem pole and sand blasted glass panels designed by award winning master carver, First Nations artist Klatle-bhi. Every season is honoured in the professionally landscaped garden designed by Demitasse with transcendent, meandering stone walkways and offering a fabulous array of exquisite perennials, shrubs and graceful trees. The property is private, fully fenced and secured by two automated gates. Finished to the same exacting standards, the separate guest house provides a comfortable hermitage to a family member, boasting its own custom three piece bath, deck and pergola laced with red and green grape vines. Bathed in natural light by day and dramatically illuminated by night, noetic purchasers appreciative of the home’s gravitas, are encouraged to view twice in both lights. Situated on the “beach block”, located close to the Victoria Golf Club, Victoria’s finest private and public schools, parks, shopping, surround yourself in the unparalleled beauty and unequalled lifestyle in one of Canada’s finest neighbourhoods.

EXTERIOR ~ Sustainable Architecture

Utilizing authentic and rare materials bespoke of sustainable architecture, the owner’s vision of a resilient home was masterfully executed by Billy Thistle of Point Break Developments, renowned for high-end residential construction of unparalleled quality. Clad in clear, wide- plank cedar siding sourced from Bella Coola, a wide copper belly-band girdles the exterior and anchors the intention to ecologically preserve the home. Topped with a slate roof sourced from Quebec, seamless copper gutters, downspouts, flashing and trim reinforce the resolve to create a home that will viably stand the test of time beyond expectations. The resilient concrete, floating staircase with recessed lighting invites you to ascend and explore. Adding another dimension to the exterior by night the home is effectively illuminated by eye-catching “uplighting” that highlights the fine architectural details.

KLATLE-BHI

Renowned, award winning indigenous artist and carver, Klatle-bhi was commissioned by Petro-Canada to carve a 22 – foot totem pole for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics. The sea-to sky totem pole stood at the Four Host Nations Pavilion at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre during the games. After the Olympics, the totem pole found a permanent home in the atrium of Petro- Canada’s Calgary Headquarters, now Suncor Energy. Klatle-bhi’s artwork can be found in several public museums, including the Museum of Arts and Design in New York City and the Burke Memorial Museum of Natural History in Seattle, Washington. In 2023 Klatle-bhi was recognized by the BC Achievement Foundation with the prestigious Polygon Award for First Nations Art.

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this House for sale, 244 King George Terrace, South Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

244 King George Terrace from beSEA Photolab on Vimeo.

Perched at the top of a long driveway with southerly views over the Salish Sea and Olympic Mountains this graceful residence is an appealing blend of neoclassic and contemporary architecture. Ascending from the porte cochere, custom French doors open to a grand foyer creating a dramatic first impression, with expansive oak floors and "trending now" curved walls providing ideal space for fine furniture and art. Anchoring the home in sophisticated elegance, the grand dual staircase showcases a soaring ceiling and features an exquisite historical chandelier and ceiling medallion. Main Level ~ Calming ocean vistas, glorious natural light from an abundance of windows and access to patios optimize connection to nature from all major rooms. A well balanced floor plan offers a spacious separate living room and dining room both with fireplaces and double French doors. The large, bright eat-in kitchen with breakfast bar accesses two patios ideal for dining al fresco. The roomy den serves as a perfect guest suite with adjoining three piece bath, walk-in closet, built-in shelves and private, sunny patio. Laundry, separate storage complete the main floor with oak floors throughout. Upper Level ~ The impressive primary suite provides a private sanctum to unwind and enjoy beautiful views, a fireplace, five piece ensuite, walk-in closet and dressing area with built-in vanity. The second bedroom mirrors the spaciousness of the primary with three closets, fireplace and lovely views. Bedroom three currently serves as an office and holds a wall of closets. A four piece bath easily accommodates both bedrooms. Adding an extraordinary feature to the upper floor is the grand balcony, accessed by double French doors and providing a peaceful, sunny oasis to lounge privately while taking in the splendid view and sea air. Lower Level ~ Accessed from the exterior only is a large exercise/media room which could also be useful as a storage room.

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this South Oak Bay home for sale, 2377 Zela Street, South Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

Exterior Short Video Below

QR Code for 2377 Zela Street info below

https://www.brendarussell.ca/234?from=qr

Zela is a quiet charming street. Located between St Patrick and Transit Road. This 1912 home is being sold as is and requires some work. Potential galore... notice the 2020 built home next door for some ideas perhaps. Lot size shows as 53 x 100 from the Municipal Tax Records 5,830 sq.ft. The main level offers two bedrooms and one full bathroom. Fir Floors throughout with laminate in the kitchen and bathroom. The lower level is unfinished with a washer, dryer, gas furnace and laundry sink with access to the rear yard. A wonderful location with South exposure from the backyard along with a mature 'quince' tree which is a treat when making jelly, pies or perhaps cider. Take a stroll to Monterey Middle School, McNeil Bay, Windsor Park (Tennis Courts), Oak Bay Marina and sit down and enjoy a yummy treat at 'Delish Cafe' - all within about 5 minutes.  Also, close by is the Oak Bay Beach Hotel and the oceanfront Victoria Golf Course.

.

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this 1 1/2 storey home for sale, 2331 Pacific Avenue, Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

2331 Pacific from beSEA Photolab on Vimeo.

EXTERIOR ~ Preserving the unique, period exterior of “Bottle Dash” stucco, this practical application requires little maintenance, is very durable and possesses “retro-cachet.” An arched porch features a solid, panelled front door with a demi-lune window typical of the era. Newer vinyl casement windows and roof, keep the character intact and add to the feeling of permanence. MAIN FLOOR ENTRY HALL AND HALLWAY ~ Illuminated by the front door window and giving access to all major rooms, the space is bespoke of the period and features Oak floors, original doors and hardware, updated lighting, cove ceiling and enclosed stairwells to upper and lower floors. LIVING ROOM ~ Decorated on a neutral theme, the spacious, inviting living room is light and bright with a brick, wood-burning fireplace, mantle, period wall sconce lighting and flanked by “piano” windows and provides the focal point for this warm room. Rich Oak Floors, cove ceiling, French doors to the dining room retains the character. (Brenda in one old picture there are French doors shown – in latest pictures they are gone, but hardware remains – you might want to check to see if they are still lurking around downstairs. Otherwise remove “French doors to the dining room”) DINING ROOM ~ Adjoining the living room and kitchen the dining room offers comfortable, versatile space for dining or homework and boasts Oak floors, cove ceiling and lots of natural light. KITCHEN ~ Original “retro” character, featuring leaded-glass paned windows on upper cabinets, a charming alcove housing double sinks, dishwasher and windows with back garden view. Easy access to the basement through the enclosed stairway. MUDROOM ~ Offering a cozy space to serve as an eating area, the mudroom boasts a wonderful “clothes-line” window, a real, reel clothes-line and sunny garden view. PRIMARY BEDROOM ~ Off the main hall this graceful bedroom features a large vinyl casement window, cove ceiling, original door and hardware. BEDROOM 2 ~ Separated from the primary bedroom by the bathroom this bedroom currently serves as a music room/den and is embellished with rich, Fir floors, original door, glass door knob, hardware and cove ceiling. BATHROOM ~ Nicely updated, four piece bathroom with linen closet, vinyl window and bathtub/shower combination set in its own alcove, is easily accessed by primary and second bedrooms. UPPER FLOOR BEDROOMS 3 AND 4 ~ From the main floor hallway, and enclosed staircase leads to the upper floor landing and two similarly sized, gabled bedrooms with Fir floors under carpet, vinyl casement windows and original doors and hardware. LOWER FLOOR BASEMENT ~ Offering 865 square feet of unfinished space with a 7' ceiling and a large finished bedroom/family room requiring a heat source, bring your ideas to this easily accessed lower floor with separate door, vinyl windows and ready for development. The laundry room is located in the basement and has a handy laundry tub. GARDEN ~ Wonderfully wide, 60 x 110, south-facing, landscaped garden, features loads of on-site parking and provides a private, safe, large back yard for endless play, relaxation and barbecues on the spacious deck.

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this House for sale, 2500 Mowat Street, Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

Below is a short Vimeo Video of the private 'Secret Garden'

2500 Mowat from beSEA Photolab on Vimeo.

This jewel of a home was built in 1952 and has been meticulously maintained and tastefully renovated, maintaining original character features. Set on a private, fully fenced, enchanting garden, one is awestruck by the attention to detail in all aspects of the property. Located on a quiet, sought after North Oak Bay Street, close to Willows Beach, Uplands Golf Course, shopping, restaurants, Oak Bay Recreation Centre and transit this home offers an ideal, turn-key lifestyle for the discerning professional couple or retirees seeking an oasis of quality comfort and calm; a glorious retreat that blends harmoniously with nature. Entry Hall ~ Crimson walls and ceiling welcomes you with precious Tiffany style ceiling lights, walnut stained oak floors that provide passages to all major rooms along with a modern 'Convectair' wall heater. Living Room ~ Joining the entry hall by an attractive archway, the living room is spacious, bright and newly decorated on a restful palette, featuring walnut stained oak floors, new gas 'Majestic' fireplace, cove ceilings, recessed lighting and custom window shutters. It is large enough to add a cozy dining table in the corner. Kitchen ~ Enter from the hall, through a French door into the well appointed, custom IKAN kitchen combining function and beauty, choosing classic Hunter Green and white palette and boasting top of the line appliances including: Bloomberg gas oven, Fisher Paykel French door refrigerator, "silent" Bosch dishwasher double Kohler porcelain deep sinks, Richelieu hardware (brushed nickel knobs/classic cup pulls) and a handy pull out for accessing your favourite cooking utensils. Dining Area ~ Adjoining the kitchen and using the same glass and solid combination, the cabinetry thoughtfully flows into the cozy dining area providing perfect storage for dinnerware, objet d'art and six drawers for other finery. The exquisite touch of a Tiffany style pendulum... lights the space and also features custom window shutters that open fully and adjust individually. Primary Bedroom with Ensuite ~ The cheerful 13" x 20" Master suite enjoys views of and access by door to the private garden. Retaining character with cove ceiling and Oak floors, the room features a practical ceiling fan and a 'modern sliding door' clothes closet. An updated three piece bath has tiled shower, undercounter sink with oak cabinet. Main Bathroom ~ Light, bright and sky-lit the four piece bath is decorated in stylish white adding to a spa like feeling. Laundry Room/Mud Room ~ With handy door access to garden and separate garage, the bright laundry room features front loading Maytag washer and dryer, extra cupboards and extra shelving. 'The Secret Garden' ~ Designed and created by the current owner in 2020, alluring flagstone walkways draw the beholder into this idyllic English Country garden with its bountiful bevy of interesting trees, shrubs and glorious perennial blooms thoughtfully nested in raised rock and brick beds. Fully fenced for utter privacy, the garden provides the homeowner with a secluded sanctum of beauty and piece. Discover the charming patio, relax and sip a favourite beverage or perhaps dine al fresco while watching birds and inhaling the wonder of it all. Designed to please the most discerning horticulturist yet relatively easy care with an irrigation system in place, discover the joy of owning a deluxe, perfectly sized Hall's Greenhouse. Charming touches abound in every direction even a friendly cock weathervane atop the garage!

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this House for sale, 2009 Runnymede Avenue, Fairfield East, Victoria, BC

Short Video of 2009 Runnymede Avenue by beSea

Set beautifully back at a pleasing elevation, and built on solid rock, this residence intrigues the eye with a wall of windows and surrounding lush landscape. Owner designed and built in 1954, by a renowned Victoria architect for his family. Lovingly maintained to present day by family, this home truly is a treasure bespoke of mid-century modern design and sensibility. The entry hall draws one into a large, light-filled floor area all on one level. Homes of this vintage and type usually have floor area divided on two floors. The comfortable living room features a mahogany wall and wood burning fireplace. The adjoining dining room boasts built-ins and a huge picture window with garden view. A retro, eat-in kitchen has GSW cabinets, washer/dryer, deep laundry tub and lots of room for your imagination. Dividing the two bedroom wings is a soaring glass atrium ideal for the plant enthusiast and bathing adjoining rooms in natural light. Three bedrooms and a spacious 4 piece bath conjoin the atrium and a separate guest suite perfect for live-in nanny, in-law or could be Master suite, consists of a queen size bedroom, 4 piece bath and family room. Other features include; oak flooring throughout, cork flooring in the guest wing, tile in atrium, concrete reinforced double garage with a separate furnace/storage room. One is awe-struck by the beauty of the well-established garden intentionally designed as a blissful haven beckoning one to linger in peace. A harmonious array of plants including rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, magnolia and corylopsis shrubs, roses trained along the front fence, kiwi, fig and other unique trees provide a perfect oasis of serenity. Plenty of options to fill your dreams in this versatile, bright, quiet sanctuary located in a prestige area of Fairfield East (Gonzales Bay) bordering South Oak Bay. Close to Victoria’s finest private and public schools, parks, beaches and Victoria Golf Club. *Offers are being considered Tuesday April 12th at 1pm*

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this House for sale, 1429 Mitchell Street, South Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

A romantic covered veranda welcomes you to pure Oak Bay charm. An upgraded 1911 Character home in South Oak Bay. Whether you call it Arts and Crafts, Craftsman or Character this style of architecture is virtually a signature piece for anywhere along the West Coast but especially here in Victoria. Combine that with the convenience of being within walking distance of anything needed including the 'Village' and you have yourself a great home... all yours! Completing the main floor; 3 bedrooms, dining/living area, wainscotting (1911 fireplace not used), updated bathroom, remodelled kitchen with quartz countertops, shaker cabinets with plenty of storage and a suite of stainless appl. Refinished oak floors, 9 ft ceilings, vinyl windows with bottom up/top down blinds throughout. Lower level opens to a workshop area, laundry + abundance of storage. 200 Amp. Exterior upgrades include hardie plank siding (recently painted), replaced fence panels, deck with a sunbrella connected and a brick patio area South exposure!

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this House for sale, 2551 Prior Street, Hillside, Victoria, BC

COUNTRY COTTAGE IN THE CITY This spacious two bedroom home preserves it’s original character and pleasingly combines a blend of contemporary elements and updates, ideal for the professional couple or small family. A welcoming, well appointed, eat-in kitchen opens to a vaulted ceiling family room with large windows and skylights which flood the interior with natural light, lending and airy ambiance on the dreariest of days. Enjoy easy access to laundry area and updated bathroom from the kitchen. Vinyl windows, lighting, laminate floors throughout, stainless steel appliances, attic insulation, smoke detectors, front door, and interior paint are just a few of the many upgrades. The fully fenced private garden is a popular gathering spot and invites alfresco dining and mum can watch the children play in the yard from the kitchen or family room. Located in popular, family friendly Hillside close to bus routes, schools and all major amenities. From the moment you enter the the enclosed porch, you are sure to be delighted with this charming cottage in the city. (a great townhome alternative without being attached to a strata)

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this two bedroom condo for sale, 402 1175 Newport Avenue, Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

402 - 1175 Newport Ave - Brenda Russell from beSEA Photolab on Vimeo.

Enjoy the quality of South Oak Bay lifestyle. This is a rare opportunity to transition gracefully into this spacious two bedroom, two bathroom well managed 55+ condo in this desirable complex. 'Windsor Park House' is a concrete building and immaculately maintained. Large rooms, West facing full length balcony (approx. 40 feet) with views of Windsor Park and the "Rose Garden". Many extras such as a wood-burning fireplace, quality flooring throughout, custom automatic blinds in each room and boasting its own laundry room with wash tub, built-in ironing board and lots of storage space, as well as a storage locker and two secure underground parking spots. Located one block from a beach and a short stroll to Oak Bay Marina and Avenue shopping. This home ticks all the boxes for the professional couple or retirees seeking the perfect scale-down.

Located on one the Uplands most tranquil streets, this stately Colonial home is picture-postcard pretty, and besides curb appeal possesses the enduring charm and timeless elegance bespoke of it’s enduring style. Classic symmetry affords a practical layout, traditional yet relaxed. An on-centre entry hall opens into a foyer with cross-hall living room and dining room; both feature balanced bay windows housing sunny, built-in seating adding a sense of grandeur to it’s already spacious rooms. Thoughtfully set on a serene, private garden one can imagine enjoying every aspect of family life and gatherings. Towering Oak and Firs provide a canopy for the well established, perennial garden and home to many bird species. Flagstone patio, walkways, stairs and old brick garden walls make this glorious secret garden a sunny oasis to just sit, relax and listen. Located a short stroll to public transportation, Uplands Golf Club, Royal Victoria Golf Club, private and public schools, parks, shopping and beaches. This cherished property offers a lifestyle nonpareil in Victoria’s finest neighbourhood. Living room – Accessed through French doors from main hallway the spacious living room enjoys sunshine all day from many windows and bay window with sun catching window seat with western view. A large picture window offers an unhampered view of the back of a completely private garden. The wood burning fireplace is accented with a large formal mantle. A French door leads to the garden down flagstone steps. Dining room – Cross hall from living room in true Colonial fashion is accessed through French doors and boasts an elegant space for large dinner parties, extra seating under bay window and direct access to kitchen. Kitchen – Bring your dream to reality in this eat-in kitchen with room for everything and garden access through back door. Family room – Accessible three steps from the dining room and large enough for pool table it features brick fireplace with mantle, built in bookcases, cupboards and opens to both double carport and back garden. SECOND FLOOR Master bedroom and ensuite – With paned windows facing east, west and south this spacious room is sunny and bright. A large walk-in closet with a window. Four piece ensuite with vanity adjoins. Bedrooms #2 and #3 – generous in size and feature large closets Bathroom – 4 piece Bedroom #4 – Could be a play room and has gabled windows, east and west, tons of built-in drawers and cupboards. Garden – Truly a gardeners delight both front and back. A private, serene sanctuary loaded with well-established perennials, delightful gazebo, greenhouse and tool storage. Entertainment size flagstone patio, walkway and stairs are a unique feature, as are the old brick garden walls that add to the sense of peace and privacy. Carport – double carport with access to family room. Spacious interlocking brick driveway.

Brenda Russell is proud to present a new listing this Condo for sale, 304 1400 Newport Avenue, South Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

A great location in South Oak Bay! Top floor one bedroom condo. Large vinyl windows and sliding French doors for the balcony. Currently carpeted throughout but Oak flooring are showing in other suits so it is most likely under these carpets too. A few minutes to Oak Bay Village to do all the banking and shopping. Bus routes located on Newport Avenue to UVIC and Downtown. Enjoy a walk to Oak Bay Marina, 'Scented Garden', and Windsor Park. This suite is located on the side of the building looking Oak Tree tops with a Newport Avenue glimpse. A well maintained building. Hot water heat is included in the monthly strata free. BBQ's have a designated area along with the bike storage. There is a 'garden committee' which owners take pride in... lovely and peaceful grounds... roam, stroll, rest and relax on the grounds. This suite has a parking spot and storage locker. Oak Bay Towers is a desirable building that is professional managed and cared for.

Brenda Russell is proud to present this pending home, 619 Monterey Avenue, South Oak Bay, Victoria, BC

Below is a short Vimeo Video of this Oak Bay Home

.

A hidden treasure nestled on a sought after “beach block” this home is full of surprise. A mid-century gem, solid, spacious and immaculate... beautifully renovated and restored true to its roots. Featuring cove ceilings, oak floors, European-inspired casement windows creating a perfect palette for your own interpretive flare. Gather on the entertainment size deck or escape to the pergola in the well established sunny garden with raised vegetable beds. A pristine home offering a versatile floor plan provides many options for your growing family and located close to both public French immersion, private schools, parks, public transport, Victoria Golf Club and just steps to the beach. Main floor: Good size living room features cove ceilings, oak floors and showcases an elegant mantle and free standing gas fireplace. Dining room adjoins the living room and could seat eight comfortably with room to spare. Kitchen is tastefully renovated with updated cabinetry, granite countertops and backsplash, an abundance of “quiet close” drawers and doors, under-counter lighting and cork flooring. Picture window above sink that opens outward. Quality wood door leading to entertainment size sundeck. Two spacious bedrooms with ample closets both with custom closet organizers. Main floor bath is four piece with cork floors. All rooms connected by a charming main hall with more closet space and some original hardware. Ground floor: Full height and remarkable bright as light filters through generous wood sashed windows into bedrooms. 3rd bedroom is perfect student space. Lots of room to study in privacy and features walk-in barn door closet and it’s own large Travertine heated tiled shower tucked into a corner. A cozy Master retreat fits a King Size bed, lounge area, at home office and features double sided gas fireplace, large walk-in closet and French doors opening to the patio and garden. Luxurious Master bath located next to Master suite offers a free-standing soaker tub and separate “spa-like” shower with Travertine tiles. Two Calma Puccini vessel sinks, heated wood floors and a towel warmer. Good size laundry area has laundry tub, room for a freezer, lots of extra storage and access to garden. The Mechanical room stores the HAV, hot water tank and central vac/equipment. Other features: Hot water radiant heat registers, Custom window blinds throughout, Storage room under deck, bike storage, 6 Foot fencing with concrete foundations.

If you are looking for a home in Oak Bay and would like some help...just call Brenda direct at 250.744.4556  She has been licensed since 1990.