Algra Bros Revives Chilliwack Downtown with District 1881 Mixed-Use Development
In 2018, a 1.5-hectare mixed-use micro-neighbourhood named District 1881 was established in downtown Chilliwack, British Columbia, revitalizing the area with shops, cafés, apartments, offices, and a hotel. The Algra Bros Developments Ltd., led by brothers Dave, Phil, and Peter Algra, effectively demonstrated to local authorities that a diverse range of building types would enhance downtown's appeal. Their strategy drew from previous endeavors, such as a 2010 proposal for housing on a former military site. The last building was finished last year, resulting in a 400% increase in average commercial rent. The development has attracted visitors from Vancouver and businesses like Spruce Collective, founded by Lily Ellis. More information can be found at district1881.com.
Key facts
- District 1881 is a 1.5-hectare mixed-use development in Chilliwack, British Columbia, 100km east of Vancouver.
- The project is led by three siblings—Dave, Phil and Peter Algra—under Algra Bros Developments Ltd.
- In 2018, the area was described as a no-man's-land by co-partner Dave Algra.
- The final building of District 1881 was completed last year.
- Average commercial rent in the district is 400 per cent higher than when the project began eight years ago.
- Dave Algra states the project is three years ahead of schedule on return on investment.
- The brothers previously developed several hundred homes on a former military base after winning a bid in 2010.
- Lily Ellis, who opened Spruce Collective in District 1881, says she never envisioned Chilliwack as a retail destination.
Entities
Artists
- Dave Algra
- Phil Algra
- Peter Algra
- Lily Ellis
Institutions
- Algra Bros Developments Ltd.
- Spruce Collective
- Monocle
Locations
- Chilliwack
- Canada
- Vancouver
- Fraser River valley
- Abbotsford
- District 1881
Sources
- Monocle —