About the building
The Monaco is a boutique heritage conversion building situated at the prominent corner of Johnson and Government Streets in downtown Victoria's Old Town district. Originally constructed in 1888 as the E.G. Prior & Co. hardware building, it was meticulously rebuilt into 18 residential condominiums in 2007, blending historical character with modern urban living. The residences feature industrial-inspired interiors with exposed brick walls, 12-foot soaring ceilings, and original timber beams. Residents enjoy a common rooftop patio with city views and the unparalleled convenience of having the city's finest cafes and boutiques right at their doorstep.
The Monaco occupies the Prior Building at the northeast corner of Johnson and Government, built in 1888 for Colonel E.G. Prior's hardware firm and extended in 1902 to a design by Leonard Buttress Trimen, with Elford and Smith as builders; the City designated it a heritage building in November 2003 and it joined the Canadian Register in 2005. The 2007 conversion is registered as strata plan VIS6304 with an elevator, a secure bike room and lockers, and the strata fee covers building insurance, hot water, garbage and management.
Suites run from about 670 to 935 square feet in loft-style plans with 11-foot ceilings, gas fireplaces and the original brick and timber, and strata fees run roughly $505 to $700 a month; pets are welcome. The address scores a perfect 100 for walking, with Market Square across the street and Chinatown a block north.
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.
