A longstanding Victoria business will be moving into the burned out space of Ricky’s All Day Grill, which was the target of arson in June.
Standard Furniture is set to take over the space and plans to build an entirely new structure on the triangular corner lot.
“The main thing for us is we want to situate ourselves somewhere that’s a little more accessible to clientele,” said Parm Dodd, creative director and co-owner of Standard Furniture and Ashley Homestore.
The current Standard Furniture store is located in Saanich, along Cloverdale Avenue near Douglas Street.
Dodd says the store has existed in some shape or form since 1912 and was taken over by his family more than 20 years ago in 2002.
While the shop has deep roots in the community, Dodd says the new location will likely be a more appealing stop, and he thinks it could result in up to five times as much more traffic.
He adds that other developments around the lower Saanich area are all slated for highrise condo towers or residential buildings and that the new location will stand out more.
“This new location is visually really awesome,” he said.
“It’s unique, and either an eyesore or something you can’t stop looking at,” he said with a laugh.
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An early rendering of the new Standard Furniture building is shown. (DMPA Architecture)
Changing tastes
While on the topic of highrises, Dodd says he’s noticed a shift in furniture shopping tastes.
With density increasing in Saanich and Victoria, smaller furniture items are becoming more popular.
The new Standard Furniture store will have sections tailored to “small space solutions” for people who live in apartments and condos.
“I hear from a lot of customers having to go online because they can’t find stuff small enough,” Dodd said.
He estimates the new store won’t be open for at least two-and-a-half to three years.
Tests on the soil and ground are still being completed, particularly because there are plans to dig down to add underground parking.
SEE ALSO: Crews at former Ricky’s damage gas line, roads reopen
The site of the former Rickys All Day Grill and upcoming Standard Furniture location is shown. (DMPA Architecture)
Adam Chan
