About the building
The Wave is a striking 13-storey steel-and-concrete high-rise located in the heart of downtown Victoria's vibrant Harris Green district. Completed in 2006, the building is renowned for its modern glass-heavy architecture, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, 9-foot ceilings, and open-concept interiors with granite countertops and gas fireplaces. Residents benefit from a range of urban amenities including a large, fully equipped fitness centre, a secure underground parkade, and a peaceful zen-style common courtyard. Its central location offers a near-perfect Walk Score, placing residents steps away from major grocery stores, popular restaurants, and the downtown inner harbour.
The Wave was designed by de Hoog & Kierulf Architects as a 13-storey tower with a nine-storey wing along the street, rising about 145 feet on a site that had held a used-car lot and a repair shop. There are 97 apartments plus five two-storey townhouses facing the courtyard, with street-level retail. The building takes its name from the tile mosaic of Hokusai's Great Wave on the east wall, about 14 by 5 metres, approved in 2004; when tiles began to fall the mural was covered, and the City turned down a proposal to paint it instead, requiring the tile to be restored.
Suites have over-nine-foot ceilings, engineered wood floors, stone counters and fireplaces, and the strata fee includes hot water. Listings report two pets welcome; confirm with the strata. The courtyard has a water feature, and there is secure bike storage alongside the gym. Yates at Quadra puts the Harris Green grocery stores, the cinemas and Fort Street within two blocks.
About Downtown
Victoria’s Downtown is the most rapidly growing neighbourhood in the city. New residents of all ages are attracted to the area’s rich historic character and its vibrant waterfront. The downtown has a thriving arts, culture and entertainment district combined with an impressive variety of dining and shopping choices, all within easy walking distance. The Royal BC Museum and Chinatown (Canada’s oldest) are perennial attractions for visitors and residents alike. The neighbourhood also hosts celebrated landmarks like the Empress Hotel, provincial Parliament Buildings and the Royal and McPherson Theatres.
Parks
The Downtown neighbourhood has green space along the waterfront, which includes Reeson Park near the Johnson Street Bridge. Cridge Park is located to the south, next to the downtown Lawn Bowling Club and Crystal Garden and near the entrance to Beacon Hill Park. Centennial Square, situated next to Victoria’s historic City Hall, is the downtown’s primary venue for events.
Schools
Chinese Public School (Chinese language and cultural classes for children and adults)
Victoria Conservatory of Music
Victoria Academy of Ballet
Victoria School of Contemporary Dance
Pacific Design Academy
Over 15 English language schools
Gardens & Markets
The Yates Street Community Garden is operated by the Downtown Residents Association
Bastion Square Public Market runs Thursdays to Sundays between May and end of September
Ship Point Night Market operates Friday and Saturday evenings from mid June to mid September.
About Victoria
Victoria’s Downtown is the vibrant heart of British Columbia’s capital city, blending historic charm with modern urban energy. It is the city’s most rapidly growing neighbourhood, attracting new residents of all ages to its mix of heritage architecture, bustling waterfront, and thriving cultural scene. With scenic harbour views and tree-lined streets, downtown Victoria offers a dynamic urban lifestyle while remaining walkable and accessible.
The area boasts a rich arts, culture, and entertainment district, featuring galleries, theatres, live music venues, and festivals throughout the year. Residents and visitors enjoy an impressive variety of dining, shopping, and service options, all within convenient walking distance. Historic and iconic landmarks, such as the Royal BC Museum, the Fairmont Empress Hotel, the provincial Parliament Buildings, and Canada’s oldest Chinatown, provide both character and a strong sense of place. The Royal and McPherson Theatres further enhance the city’s reputation as a hub for the performing arts.
Downtown Victoria’s waterfront plays a central role in community life, offering promenades, marinas, and public spaces that encourage outdoor recreation and social engagement. The combination of rich history, vibrant culture, and urban amenities makes downtown Victoria a highly desirable neighbourhood for residents who value both convenience and quality of life.
Today, Victoria continues to grow while maintaining its unique blend of heritage, modern development, and coastal beauty, making it a welcoming and dynamic place to live, work, and explore.
