Christmas at Hycroft Mansion in Vancouver
Just as the McRae family, the original owners of this remarkable mansion, greeted their friends for pre-season celebrations, the University Women’s Club of Vancouver, today’s owners, welcomed the public to enjoy the fine traditions and sumptuous surroundings of Christmases past. Vancouver’s top designers transformed the main floor into a setting of imaginative and festive splendour.
A simple wreath, composed of a variety of greenery, gracefully adorns the wall sconce,
adding a fresh and understated seasonal touch.
A lush yellow poinsettia sits beautifully on the side table, its soft hue echoing the colour of the wall behind it. The harmony between plant and setting creates a refined and elegant display that feels both warm and thoughtfully curated.
A luxurious floral arrangement featuring elegant white orchids, lilies, and soft, silvery hoary stocks.
When McRae settled in Vancouver in 1907 he proceeded to build a mansion for his family, to become known as Hycroft, in Shaughnessy one of Vancouver’s neighborhoods. The home was built on the brow of a hill on 5.5 acres (22,000 m2) of land. The land upon which the 30 room, 3 story mansion was built cost $10,000. The construction, completed in 1911, cost $100,000.
After the death of his wife Blaunche in 1942, McRae donated Hycroft to the government of Canada to be used as a hospital for wounded veterans. Once converted, it housed 130 beds. Since 1962 Hycroft has been the home of the University Woman’s Club of Vancouver and is home in that capacity to the club, founded in 1907 to promote education and human rights for women. Today the Club promotes education and opportunities for women. Its members enjoy sharing ideas, interests, and fun at its Clubhouse.
During the 2010 Winter Olympic Games the French Olympic Team used the building. It is also heavily used by Vancouver’s film and television production industry as a set.
A dream in white—this Christmas tree is truly breathtaking. Soft feathers are woven throughout the branches, giving the impression of freshly fallen snow while adding a sense of depth and quiet luxury.
The tree is adorned with white silk hydrangeas, a mix of shiny and matte silver glass ornaments, delicate white birds, and an abundance of fairy lights. Together, these elements create a luminous, layered display that feels both serene and richly elegant.
2010/2026
