Swift Residence

The Swift Residence exemplifies the economic optimism prevalent in Penticton in the early 1920s, a period of economic and population growth. The Swift house, constructed for $6000 in the prestigious Lakeshore Drive area, was an expensive and visible symbol of wealth and an expression of social status. Its owner, A. A. Swift, was clerk for the Kettle Valley Railway Company, and had just been elected to Penticton Council. He chose to build his new house on a street that was a much sought-after location during the 1930s, and where other KVR executives resided, including the President of the Company, J. J. Warren.

Built in 1921, the Swift Residence is also valued for its cross-gabled bungalow form and restrained Craftsman detailing. Typical craftsman features include the low-pitched roofs, gabled entry porch with square columns, stucco finish with half-timbering in the gable ends, and decorative knee braces.

The Swift Residence is also valued for its association with the architectural firm of Swan and Augustine. Swan was responsible for all the KVR's architectural work, including the Lakeshore Station in Penticton. Swan and Augustine won the competition for the local Soldiers' Housing Scheme in 1920 and designed the Maternity Hospital in 1920-21.