Planning has always been a key part of Shaughnessy's continuing heritage as a central Vancouver neighbourhood. Purchased and developed by the Canadian Pacific Railway in the 1900s, the area was designed as a prestigious alternative to the West End for the growing population of (then) nouveau riche in the city. Montreal landscape architect Frederick Todd and Danish engineer L.E. Davick, designers of New York's Central Park, collaborated to lay out the 6000 acres of Shaughnessy's wide verdant boulevards and winding crescents, offering a pleasing respite from downtown's daily grind, in the heart of the city. Shaughnessy is still characterized by sizeable homes with the earmarks of proud heritage. Far from being merely an old money neighbourhood, today the community also boasts Hollywood movie stars among its residents.

Housing
Many of the area's original homes were designed by the city's top architects, who infused the neighbourhood with classic British and early American architectural influences that can still be seen today. Indeed, supported by members of the community, the city is implementing a special development plan to preserve pre-1940s houses and ensure that new home planning is complementary to Shaughnessy's distinct architectural stylings.

Most of the dwellings in Shaughnessy are single family detached homes situated on large (60 feet wide or greater) lots in the upper price range.

Location
Chosen for being the highest point in the city, Shaughnessy also puts some distance between the comforts of home and the working life downtown. Shaughnessy is strategically located in the centre of Vancouver, near major arteries for car and transit access to anywhere one would need to go.

Shopping
The borders of Shaughnessy are in a way defined by shopping districts. To the west you'll find the Arbutus Village Shopping Centre with its supermarket, banking and service amenities. An interesting mix of local shops and restaurants line Oak Street on the eastern side while the northern edge features the eclectic shops of the South Granville Rise. The southern border, running along West 41st Avenue, offers everything from small, neighbourhood shops and restaurants to the full Oakridge Shopping Centre experience.

Transportation
Although tucked away from the busy urban drone, Shaughnessy still affords convenient city access by car or bus. The community is bisected by the main thoroughfare of Granville Street, providing roughly a 15-minute drive both downtown and south to the airport. Oak Street lies on Shaughnessy's eastern border and is also a favoured route to the airport and into Richmond and other southern communities.

Recreation
Some preferred leisure activities in this area are simply strolling, jogging or biking through the community itself. Shaughnessy encompasses several heritage properties designed to be admired, including the Hycroft at 1489 McRae Avenue and Glen Brae at 1690 Matthews Street (now home to Canuck Place, a children's hospice). Among Shaughnessy's four public parks are the 55-acre VanDusen Botanical Gardens, an everchanging showcase of the community's gardening acumen.

For more great information and interesting history about the neighbourhood, click here!