ARCHITECTURE:
The 1-1/2 storey house at 1132 Empress Avenue is a good example of an American Craftsman style home in the Fernwood neighbourhood of Victoria. The gabled, low-pitched roof and exposed structural elements like eaves brackets and porch roof beams are classic features to the style while the remaining, original wood frame windows and wood cladding add to the building character. The designation of the home is limited to the building footprint.
Through its architectural form and style, the historic building at 1132 Empress Avenue has aesthetic value as a good example of the Craftsman Bungalow displaying, in particular, the mature American or California design. The 1-1/2 storey massing over a basement with the low-pitched roof lines, full width front verandah, and exposed structural elements present the modesty and functionality of the style. The bays and dormers with shed and gable roofs add interest to the form while the stained glass and multi-pane, wood framed windows along with the bevel edged wood siding and shingle cladding add a touch of elegance. The stone foundation supporting the verandah adds to the contrast in natural materials and textures.
ORIGINAL OCCUPANT:
Constructed in 1913 for Mr. James Daly, the wiring inspector for the City of Victoria, the house became a home for a variety of people over the subsequent years.
OTHER OCCUPANTS:
Jason Green, a telegraph operator dwelt in the home in the late 1920’s, Theo Mattison, a train man for the E&N Railway, lived here in the 1940’s, while James King with his wife Patricia and Michael S. Cousineau with his wife Valerie, both families connected with the Canadian Armed Forces lived here in the 1960’s. Through to today, the house has been a continuously occupied residence for the City of Victoria.