291 Watson Ave

Heritage attributes

The Wanless House is a representative example of Craftsman style design and construction, built during the Arts and Crafts era. The house was built in 1915-16 with Craftsman style elements such as: a high side gabled roof with central dormers; asymmetrical façade; a large front verandah; a mix of materials including red brick, stucco cladding with half timbering, and stone sills and lintels; wooden details such as wooden trim, soffits and railings; and multipaned sash windows. The home retains most of its historic exterior features, making it a good representative example of the Craftsman architectural style.

The Town of Oakville’s description, reproduced from its heritage register.

Criterion met under Ontario Regulation 9/06

The property has design value or physical value because it is a rare, unique, representative or early example of a style, type, expression, material or construction method.

O. Reg. 9/06 sets the criteria a property must meet to be designated under Part IV; the Town recorded which one applies.

What the status means

Designated individually under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act by a Town by-law. Alterations to the heritage attributes and demolition need Town approval.

Whether a specific alteration needs a heritage permit is the Town’s call; ask its heritage planning staff before starting work. See permits and by-laws.

Sources

Contains information licensed under the Open Government Licence — Town of Oakville. Licence. Register checked September 24, 2026; the Town’s record is authoritative.