The stately Edwardian-era Hycroft mansion in Vancouver's prestigious Shaughnessy neighbourhood is once again transforming into a winter paradise for its beloved annual event, Hycroft for the Holidays. This year, the historic home embraces a Winter Garden Wonderland theme, masterfully led by interior designer Francesca Albertazzi, who has infused the grand drawing room with a fresh, sustainable vision.
For more than fifty years, the University Women's Club of Vancouver has hosted this cherished tradition, opening the heritage property's doors to the public. The event combines festive exploration of the decorated mansion with a curated marketplace featuring local artisans, all while raising crucial funds for the preservation of this architectural treasure.
A Garden-Inspired Vision Blooms
Francesca Albertazzi, a member of the University Women's Club and principal of Studio Albertazzi, found her inspiration directly from the estate's own gardens. After joining the club's garden committee, she noticed the beautiful hydrangeas being discarded at season's end. "I'd see all these beautiful hydrangeas going into the green bin," Albertazzi recalls. "They were too lovely to waste, so I took some home to dry and thought: why not use them to decorate the house?"
This simple, sustainable idea became the foundation for her design philosophy: "bringing the outside in." Her transformation of the grand drawing room features dried blue hydrangeas harvested directly from the Hycroft gardens, complemented by fresh greenery and hand-dried orange slices artfully woven through blue tartan ribbon.
The design is both beautiful and deeply thoughtful. The blue in the ribbon is a deliberate nod to the McRae tartan, honouring the family who originally built and owned the Hycroft mansion. "I imagined what Mrs. McRae might have done in winter with what she had in her garden," Albertazzi explains, highlighting the historical authenticity of using natural, readily available materials.
Celebrating Craft and Community
Beyond the stunning decor, Hycroft for the Holidays serves as a vibrant hub for local craftsmanship. The event will feature more than 40 vendors throughout the historic home, each selected for their unique, handmade goods. The marketplace offers everything from textiles and ceramics to jewelry and fine foods, providing a perfect opportunity for thoughtful holiday shopping.
Albertazzi saw a natural connection between her room design and the artisan market. She strategically incorporated pieces from the participating vendors—such as pillows, vases, and linens—into her drawing-room display. This allows visitors to see how these locally made products can be beautifully integrated into a real interior setting.
The vendor curation was a collaborative effort, with Albertazzi crediting fellow club member and craftsperson Kaarina Talvila for helping assemble this year's exceptional lineup. The focus was squarely on artistry and originality, ensuring visitors discover unique items not found at every other holiday market.
A Full Sensory Holiday Experience
The festive atmosphere at Hycroft extends beyond visual beauty and shopping. The event is designed as a complete sensory experience, featuring live choral and jazz performances that fill the historic halls with seasonal music. For those seeking a moment of respite, two cozy on-site cafés will offer warm refreshments, making it easy to spend hours immersed in the holiday charm.
While much of the mansion will be decorated by the club's dedicated volunteer committee using pieces from its own collection, Albertazzi's drawing room will stand out as a special focal point. It represents a harmonious blend of the estate's natural heritage and a modern commitment to sustainable, meaningful holiday decor.
Hycroft for the Holidays continues its long-standing tradition on November 17, 2025, inviting Vancouver residents and visitors to step into a winter garden wonderland that celebrates heritage, craft, and environmental consciousness in one of the city's most beautiful historic settings.
