Vintage Home by the Sea + Shipyards

Welcome to Walden’s Retreat, an eco-friendly oasis of calm. Built in 1911 by Isaac Walden, this beautifully preserved vintage home offers a stay defined by nature, character, craftsmanship, and sense of place. It offers a history-rich stay for visitors.

Centrally located, you are just minutes from Lower Lonsdale, the Seabus to Downtown Vancouver, the Shipyards District, Spirit Trail, local shops, dining, parks, and nature journeys on the North Shore - all walkable

Built in 1911, this vintage home in the historic Ottawa Gardens neighbourhood of the City of North Vancouver offers a rare chance to experience timeless craftmanship and character. 500 year old fir and cedar wood floors, original millwork panels, a classic clawfoot tub, and a sweeping wraparound porch with beautiful mountain and ocean views create an atmosphere that feels both timeless and with a touch of magic. The home is thoroughly appointed with an eclectic collection of books and art, offering a lived in elegance you won't find in modern builds. Mornings on the porch listening to the birds, and quiet evenings surrounded by soul and history are part of the experience here.

Set behind mature hedges and framed by two towering cedar and walnut trees, the property feels quietly tucked away from the outside world. In the warmer months, the garden comes alive with birdsong, and visiting squirrels, adding to the sense of calm and seclusion. It's a space designed as much for unwinding and reflection, as it is for gathering, whether that's a quiet morning coffee on the porch or an evening glass of wine as the light fades.
This is a unique stay in the sense of space, setting and soul - not a new build or fully modernized property.

This home celebrates its past. As such, the home retains subtle quirks and idiosyncrasies of the era. Guests who appreciate authenticity, architectural detail, and a more refined, residential experience tend to find this deeply rewarding. Many have found these features add to its warmth and authenticity. It is best suited to those travelers who value nature, charm and atmosphere, and walking through a neighbourhood full of character, gardens and stunning ocean and mountain views.

If you are drawn to something distinctive, peaceful and storied, you will be right at home.

With its classic early 1900s architecture and enduring craftsmanship like the wrap around front porch, and views to the Salish Sea ocean, Twin Sister's mountains, and Lion Gate's bridge, the home proudly reflects its era—expect character, charm, and thoughtful detail that tell a story. The home was built by Isaac Walden for his wife Annie. Isaac founded Walden's Hardware at East 1st + Lonsdale in 1904 with his two brothers. As is typical of the era when horses were the main mode of transport, the home is a 10 to 15 minute walk to restaurants, shops, grocery stores, organic food markets and the Shipyards Festival area.

The home is located in an established residential neighbourhood, with a historic church and elementary school nearby. At certain school week day times, primarily brief morning and afternoon pick - up periods, you may notice some neighbourhood activity.

Inside, the home has been carefully maintained to provide a comfortable and welcoming stay, blending heritage elements with practical amenities for today’s traveler. It is an ideal choice for guests who appreciate authenticity, history, and a sense of place. The original fir floors are from 500 year old growth wood. The forests on the North Shore have been stewarded by the Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Indigenous people for thousands of years.

A unique and comfortable home base for guests seeking a calm oasis after a busy day of sightseeing.

Note: The City of North Vancouver has been voted Canada's Most Liveable City for the second year in a row. (Globe and Mail newspaper February 2026)

The home is three storey's high with two bedrooms on the second floor. There is an authentic vintage bathroom with an original refinished clawfoot tub. (no stand up shower)

The large walk in shower is on the third floor bedroom which is a large open concept room with magnificent views out to the City, Ocean and Mountains.
This bedroom has two beds, and comfortable seating including a lounge chaise.

Guests have access to the entire home and property, no shared areas. Parking for two cars at the rear of the house.

There are standard stairs to access all three floors.
People will need to be able to walk up and down stairs.

It is a 15 minute leisurely walk to the famous Shipyards District. Coming home in the evening, walking up the hill, after visiting restaurants, brew pubs and various events might take a little longer:)