With Gratitude for the Lands That Shape Us

The name Esquimalt traces back to a lək̓ʷəŋən phrase meaning “the place of gradually shoaling water,” honouring the land and waters that shape our community.

As we create collaborative community on this land we express our gratitude and respect to the lək̓ʷəŋən speaking peoples and the Songhees, Esquimalt, and W̱SÁNEĆ Nations whose rights, title, and relationship with the land continue to this day.

Our Vision for Esquimalt Village Cohousing:

Esquimalt Village Cohousing aspires to create an inclusive, diverse, and vibrant neighbourhood that prioritizes walkability, bikeability, and proximity to schools, services, and amenities. We aim to foster a family-friendly environment with access to parks, outdoor green spaces, and safe areas for children and adults to play. Our community will be close to Victoria, avoiding extensive travel, while accessing quiet, peaceful surroundings.

Our homes will reflect an awareness of climate change in building design and construction. Housing will consist of apartments, designed to foster connections and a sense of belonging. Our land will prioritize food garden space for residents and native, drought resistant, pest tolerant planting.

Our community will celebrate diversity and all ages, offering equitable living arrangements and a shared commitment to care and collaboration. We are dedicated to building a sustainable, supportive community that values shared resources, meaningful interactions, and a strong sense of togetherness.

These are the Values that Shape Us:

  • Inclusive and Open minded

    We’re creating an inclusive, diverse, and lively community at Esquimalt Village Cohousing—one where everyone, from children to seniors, feels truly welcome. We value being active contributors to the wider Esquimalt neighbourhood by hosting events, sharing skills, and building connections through things like repair cafés, book exchanges, and community gatherings.

  • Sharing and Supportive

    At Esquimalt Village Cohousing, we support one another in building a warm, connected community. Our shared spaces—including the common kitchen, guest rooms, car-sharing options, and food-growing areas—make it easy to collaborate, lend a hand, and enjoy everyday life together.

  • Balancing privacy and community

    Every household at Esquimalt Village Cohousing enjoys the comfort of a private home while also benefiting from thoughtfully designed shared spaces and resources that make connection easy and natural.

  • Environmentally-friendly

    At Esquimalt Village Cohousing, we’re committed to sustainable living. Our homes and shared spaces are designed to be eco-friendly, using fewer natural resources and featuring native plantings that thrive in our climate. With thoughtful choices—like ample bike parking, solar-ready design, and low-energy systems—we’re building a community that cares for the environment today and for generations to come.

  • Empowered Decision Making

    At Esquimalt Village Cohousing, every household has an equal voice in decisions and a shared stake in our common spaces. We’re committed to growing as a conflict-competent community—one that listens with care, welcomes different perspectives, and sees our differences as a source of strength.

Do feel aligned with our vision and values?

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