Owners of Emily Carr’s Historic House Seek Short-Term Rental Exemption

The owners of the historic House of Allsorts, a lesser-known residence of the famed Canadian artist Emily Carr, are requesting an exemption from the province’s short-term rental regulations. This privately-owned building in Victoria, British Columbia is 112 years old and holds a unique status as the only privately-owned historic site in the province.

The House of Allsorts, where Carr lived during her adulthood, is rich in history and creativity. Many of her original paintings adorn the attic, which served as a space for her artistic endeavors. Although copies of her work are displayed on the walls, several paintings on the ceiling are authentic, offering a glimpse into Carr’s artistic legacy.

Current owner Peter Willis inherited the house from his grandmother, who purchased it in 1973. The building received historic designation shortly after the acquisition, but its upkeep is solely Willis’s responsibility. In contrast, the nearby Emily Carr House is owned by the province, which covers its maintenance costs.

Willis hopes to utilize short-term rentals to generate funds for the house’s restoration, estimated at $800,000. He currently rents out two suites on the second floor for a minimum of 90 days and has long-term tenants on the ground floor. However, as he does not reside in the house, he is unable to offer short-term rentals, which he believes could significantly aid in financing the restoration.

“I think I can do it if I get a short-term rental exemption,” Willis stated, emphasizing the financial burden of maintaining such a historic property.

The matter is currently being reviewed by the Attorney General’s legal services branch, although they did not provide a response by the publication’s deadline. Willis argues that it is the province’s “moral and ethical obligation” to support the preservation of a site so integral to British Columbia’s cultural heritage.

As discussions continue about the potential exemption for short-term rentals, the future of the House of Allsorts remains uncertain. The outcome could influence how historic properties are maintained and preserved across the province, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by private owners of significant cultural landmarks.