BIGGERSTAFF WILSON RESIDENCE
The Biggerstaff Wilson Residence in the Rockland neighbourhood of Victoria is one of architect Samuel Maclure‘s finest works. To this day, it retains much of its original features and character.
This exhibit presents the Biggerstaff Wilson Residence as one of the highlights of Maclure’s architectural legacy. Through stories and images, get to know Maclure and discover how this signature design influenced architecture in Victoria’s neighbourhoods. As well, find out about the life of Biggerstaff Wilson and the origins of his unusual name.
The Architect
Samuel Maclure intended to study art but switched to architecture instead. He taught himself while supporting his studies through the sale of his paintings and work as a telegraph operator for the Esquimalt and Nanaimo Railway.
He became known initially for his simple, one-storey Arts and Crafts Movement homes known as “Maclure Bungalows”, but as his reputation grew, so did his commissions. Maclure’s design of the Biggerstaff Wilson Residence led to other work including Hatley Park in Colwood and The English Inn located in Esquimalt. His interest went beyond residential architecture to gardens, as seen in his design of the Biggerstaff Wilson Residence garden.
Maclure’s success also provided opportunities outside of Victoria. His design of the Ramsay house in Ellensburg, Washington, is the last existing example of his work in the United States.
The Residence
Biggerstaff Wilson commissioned Samuel Maclure to build this residence in 1905. The home exemplifies Maclure’s successful use of Tudor Revival architecture combined with the style of the Arts and Crafts Movement.
The exterior features of the house include irregularly shaped granite stone, half-timbered and stuccoed walls, as well as a shingled façade. Maclure favoured the irregularities and mixture of styles because they lent a natural quality to the design. The stately interior reveals Maclure’s ability to coordinate the interaction of light, space, and architectural detail. The central hall is one of his most impressive designs.
The Garden
The garden of the Biggerstaff Wilson Residence was Maclure’s first garden design. As is common with the style of the Arts and Crafts Movement, Maclure outlined the garden as an extension of the home’s living space.
Maclure created a seamless transition between home and garden, and the design of the garden shifted unnoticeably between natural and intentional design. He planted flowers, shrubs, and herbs together rather than in separate beds.
Biggerstaff Wilson
Biggerstaff Wilson was born and raised in Victoria. His father owned the W & J clothing store at 1221 Government Street, which is still there today. Biggerstaff received his university education in England and when he returned to Victoria, he became a successful businessman.
Biggerstaff succeeded not only in business, but also in golf. He served as vice-president of the Pacific Northwest Golf Association, and he played in a team match at the 1921 U.S. amateur golf championship held in St. Louis, Missouri.
