Some projects stay with you long after the scaffolding comes down. The Oldfield Estate — also known as Norfolk Heritage Lodge — in Saanich was one of those. In 2017, we were asked to restore and rebuild a collection of 17th-century limestone architectural remnants — doorways, archways, and a rounded window — originally from an Italian Gothic cathedral and later imported from France.

When the call came to work on Government House, I felt that mix of excitement and responsibility you only get with truly special projects. The Porte Cochere — that grand sandstone and granite carriage entrance — has stood at the heart of Victoria’s historic Rockland neighborhood for more than 130 years.

Owning a heritage home in Victoria—whether it’s a classic in Fairfield, a Tudor in Oak Bay, or a character house in Saanich—comes with pride and a few questions. Chief among them: What does “heritage designation” actually mean, and will it complicate repairs like repointing brick or fixing a leaky foundation?

As a heritage masonry specialist with over 25 years of experience restoring iconic buildings across Vancouver Island, I’ve seen firsthand the devastating effects of mismatched materials on our province’s architectural treasures.

In a city like Victoria, where heritage buildings tell the story of our past—from Craigdarroch Castle to the Parliament Buildings—preserving their masonry is crucial for cultural continuity.

In recent years, low-pressure steam cleaning has emerged as one of the safest and most effective ways to clean masonry buildings and structu

Masonry buildings and structures, with their timeless elegance and historical significance, offer a window into our past.