About the building
Located at 528 Pandora Avenue, this development (known as The Union) seamlessly blends heritage character with modern living by incorporating the restored façade of the historic 1881 Finlayson Building. The project consists of two 5-storey buildings connected by a landscaped private courtyard in the heart of Victoria's Old Town and Chinatown districts. Residents enjoy contemporary interiors behind the restored brick facade, all situated steps from Fan Tan Alley and the Inner Harbour.
The Union was developed by Anthem Properties, which bought the site in 2007 after an earlier project called Bamboo failed there, and designed by Robert Ciccozzi Architecture with Merrick Architecture and interiors by Portico Design Group. The $30-million project broke ground in May 2012 with a spring 2013 opening projected, and completed in 2014: two five-storey buildings, this one at 528 Pandora and its sister at 517 Fisgard, joined by a 6,000-square-foot courtyard and the revived Theatre Alley, over about 9,000 square feet of retail and gated underground parking. It is registered as strata plan EPS1833 with 133 homes, 130 one- and two-bedroom flats and three two-bedroom-and-den lofts, originally 491 to 828 square feet.
The Finlayson Building whose facade survives was built in 1881 for Roderick Finlayson to a design by H.O. Tiedemann, a two-storey brick warehouse designated as a heritage building in 2001. Interiors are contemporary, with wide-plank laminate, quartz and marble baths, and upper suites look over the Market Square rooftops; listings describe a pet-friendly strata.
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.
