A historic home in Edmonton is now available for events and special programming. The home, which is located in Buena Vista Park, adjacent to Sir Wilfrid Laurier Park and the Edmonton Valley Zoo, has been under renovation at a cost of $5.7 million.
Built in 1949, the two-storey Yorarth House was occupied by the Yorath family until 1992 when it was sold to the city. It sat vacant until the city decided how to utilize it in 2014. It has now been designated a historic house.
The city has renovated the house into a public space for destination and special occasions, doing upgrades on the foundation and water, gas, power, and sewage systems, and upgrading and replacing the kitchen.
In addition to opening the space up for special even rentals, the city is also offering a number of programs at the house, including photography, meditation, and outdoor programs like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter time.
Elizabeth Welsh grew up in the house. She remembers lots of parties at the house.
“We had the reception for the Commonwealth Games here when Prince Phillip came down,” she said. “We had huge receptions here for the racing; Dad was head of the racing commission so we’d have the pre-derby party.”
She says she’s happy with the way the renovations have turned out.
“Overall, I’m really thrilled with what they’ve done because they’ve done it very tastefully.”
The Yorath House can be rented by the hour or by the day. Prices range from $80 per hour to $2,000 for a weekend rental.
