Mixing antique and modern elements has become the trademark of some builders, but what happens when you want to include a historic farmhouse from 1896 as part of your community?
Union is taking on that challenge during the creation of its development. The townhome community by Garcha will be located in Langley, B.C. and the restored Parry-Evans residence from 1896 will be included, in addition to the 99 units that will make up the neighbourhood.
Livabl spoke to the president of Garcha, Justin Garcha, about Union, the Parry-Evans residence and the challenges Garcha is undertaking.
How did Garcha get involved with the Parry-Evans residence conservation project?
At the outset of the project we had purchased the property directly from the Parry-Evans family. It was a good fit for our project since the property is a family farmhouse with historic roots. As a homebuilder we are catering to building a family friendly home.
The house was relocated to a corner portion of the development site. What did that involve? What were the challenges?
Relocation was definitely a challenge. It involved bringing on a structural transport company to first lift up the house, and then take it to its final resting place. Ground conditions and lot grade differences make it a challenge when trying to move the house foot by foot, inch by inch, but it is part of the scope.
How will the house be incorporated into the development? Is it going to be used for a specific purpose?
The home will be nestled next to a greenway with pedestrian access and rest on its own fee simple lot [with separate legal property and title]. Access will be through the same entrance as the townhome community. It is not being used for a specific purpose, but will be revitalized and later sold to a home buyer.
How important is it to the community of Willoughby to preserve and restore homes such as these? What has the reaction been like?
Reaction has been very positive. The community values the historical artifacts that still exist in the township.
What’s especially unique or unexpected about Union homes?
These are larger, very livable homes for a family to grow into. Most features that are normally found in a single family home can be found with Union homes, such as forced air, gas heat, instant hot water, a gas cooktop and barbecue, recessed lighting, spacious interiors with natural light, side-by-side garage parking with storage, private rear yards and much more.
To learn more about Union, visit unionlangley.com.
