[wrenegade]

Anyone know what's planned for the empty lot that's been sitting vacant at Main and King Edward for the last couple of years? It used to be a gas station but that was long ago, not sure what's going up there.

4 storey typical C2 style building. 36 condos, strata retail on the ground floor. Marketing should start in the next couple months.

[VancouverPM]

Looks like work has started on that building on the 2200 block of Commercial Drive. I think a couple stories are being added to it??

Work has been ongoing there for about 2 months inside. They are adding two residential floors to it

[wrenegade]

A couple shots of the hole at Kits 360

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6074/6101815907_e55a6776f3_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alexwrenphoto/6101815907/)
IMG_0275.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alexwrenphoto/6101815907/) by Alex.Wren.Photo (http://www.flickr.com/people/alexwrenphoto/), on Flickr

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6079/6101816271_b5528b8d5a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alexwrenphoto/6101816271/)
IMG_0276.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alexwrenphoto/6101816271/) by Alex.Wren.Photo (http://www.flickr.com/people/alexwrenphoto/), on Flickr

[Dylan Leblanc]

wow. I wonder where all that earth goes?

[mr.sandbag]

does anyone have any info on the car dealership property on 7th and main east side. it looks like it just closed.

[quobobo]

does anyone have any info on the car dealership property on 7th and main east side. it looks like it just closed.

I can confirm that the cars are all gone - I'm pretty sure they were there this morning when I walked by, good catch.

I hope it's able to be rezoned, looks like it's currently IC-2 with a maximum FSR of 3.0 and serious limits on retail use (http://vancouver.ca/commsvcs/bylaws/zoning/ic-1&2.pdf).

[allan_kuan]

If NIMBYism and industrial retention issues don't get in the way, there is potential for redevelopment into residential with at-grade retail I guess? At the same time, I think that lot has seen several used car dealerships come and go over the past few years, so I wouldn't get my hopes too far up in the case that they decide that the land is not worth repurposing for anything other than what it is right now.

[hollywoodnorth]

a tower crane is now up at the Mount Pleasant Substation project on 6th ave

[wrenegade]

If NIMBYism and industrial retention issues don't get in the way, there is potential for redevelopment into residential with at-grade retail I guess? At the same time, I think that lot has seen several used car dealerships come and go over the past few years, so I wouldn't get my hopes too far up in the case that they decide that the land is not worth repurposing for anything other than what it is right now.

The site would have to be rezoned, but my guess is it will happen sooner than later. The site is currently for sale, just the vendor wants a bit too much money. The vendor thinks that it can be rezoned to a much higher density than it actually will be. With the Mt. Pleasant neighbourhood plan just recently adopted, I doubt the neighbourhood or the city will have much appetite for a proposal that is above and beyond what is called for in the new plan. You never know though.

[mr.sandbag]

from what i have read. i think up to 6 stories is what the city will allow for rezoning... mt pleasant community plan. 6 will be tough i think 'nimbys'. 4 with retail along main st is my bet. once the the 6 story on 8 and main, other side of alley of 81/2 resturant gets going, im sure we might see something happen here. I was thinking something has been started but as Awvan says, nothing as of yet,

my unit over looks the parking lot, so once i see something i'll post it.

[logan5]

once the the 6 story on 8 and main, other side of alley of 81/2 resturant gets going, im sure we might see something happen here.

That's an interesting development if that's been approved. Personally, I would like to see a lot more development in the Mt. Pleasant industrial/light office area. I know the city is trying to preserve industrial zones, but this is one area that is far better served with high density development.

[allan_kuan]

That's an interesting development if that's been approved. Personally, I would like to see a lot more development in the Mt. Pleasant industrial/light office area. I know the city is trying to preserve industrial zones, but this is one area that is far better served with high density development.

Or maybe the city can convince someone to do a heritage looking office park... like what is happening over at Broadway Tech? That may be a bit of a stretch though.

[Hed Kandi]

Parallel Park for Viva Vancouver

http://www.contemporist.com/2011/09/06/parallel-park-for-viva-vancouver/#more-35455

[mr.sandbag]

Parallel Park for Viva Vancouver

http://www.contemporist.com/2011/09/06/parallel-park-for-viva-vancouver/#more-35455

i was walking up main yesterday and noticed it next to the blenz on 14th. pretty cool actually and it was getting lots of use. great location.

[entheosfog]

I think that's Social in the distance, taken from the Cambie bridge:
http://img593.imageshack.us/img593/6750/img4342tf.jpg

[hollywoodnorth]

I think that's Social in the distance, taken from the Cambie bridge:
http://img593.imageshack.us/img593/6750/img4342tf.jpg

it sure is with the 2 matching elevator caps up top

[Prometheus]

it sure is with the 2 matching elevator caps up top

I believe that is District.

[quobobo]

^Yep, those two are District. Social is the one in the middle, just to the right of the two District towers. They just painted the exterior in the last couple weeks, it's starting to look decent.

[hollywoodnorth]

I believe that is District.

opps brain lag ... my bad. back to drooling over the new BC place roof everyone :)

[quobobo]

Just (5 min ago) took some photos of District and that yellow heritage (?) building that's being renovated.

http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/1098/img2089s.jpg

http://img839.imageshack.us/img839/7670/img2090c.jpg

[jlousa]

Some good news/bad news.

The COV is looking to have someone build modular housing on the empty lot next to Naniamo Station, just behind the existing Concert building. The ground is still somewhat containmanated from the previous foundary.

The good news is that the empty lot in such a close location to public transit is being put to use. Also the city is finally looking at modular housing .

The bad news is it will be a 60yr ground lease, which seems like a major waste for an area that is planned to be rezoned shortly and could've possibly landed much more density than what it will be able to take with the current proposal.

[Locked In]

Bob Rennie and Royal BC Museum unveil Chinatown gallery

Vancouver’s most well-known condo marketer has teamed up with the Royal BC Museum to open a new gallery in Chinatown.

On Thursday, Royal BC Museum CEO Pauline Rafferty and Rennie Marketing Systems principal Bob Rennie unveiled plans for a satellite gallery in Vancouver’s historic Wing Sang building.

The building, which is also home to Rennie’s art collection and his business, was built in 1889 for a prominent Chinese-Canadian importer-exporter.

The new gallery represents the first time in its 125-year history that the Royal BC Museum has opened a satellite location.

The museum said the gallery would display human and natural history collections from the province’s museum and archives.

“The Royal BC Museum at Wing Sang is due to the generous philanthropy of our sustaining patron, Rennie Marketing Systems,” said Rafferty.

The Wing Sang building has undergone extensive restoration in recent years, and Rennie called the new gallery the perfect “bookend” to his own contemporary art collection.

“We are all looking forward to welcoming the community into this space next summer,” said Rennie.

Joel McKay
Twitter:jmckaybiv
jmckay@biv.com

Source: BIV (http://www.bivinteractive.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4772:bob-rennie-and-royal-bc-museum-unveil-chinatown-gallery&catid=14:daily-news&Itemid=46)

[phesto]

Heard Westbank has secured partnership to develop the residential component of the Oakridge Centre redevelopment. (Concert properties was apparently also a candidate)

Perhaps there is someone on here who can confirm?

[jlousa]

I haven't heard that the decision has been made public yet.:frog:

[phesto]

^Me either! :tup:

[hollywoodnorth]

Heard Westbank has secured partnership to develop the residential component of the Oakridge Centre redevelopment. (Concert properties was apparently also a candidate)

Perhaps there is someone on here who can confirm?

sounds about right ;)

[hummingbird]

Once these developments get built, say around another 8 years, they will need to re-consider more transporations options. (Perhaps running canada line in 1 minute intervals), I can just picture it becoming like Japan where someone in a white glove will have to push people into the jammed packed trains.

[entheosfog]

Development site, SE corner of Broadway and Oak:
http://img706.imageshack.us/img706/8288/img4436l.jpg

Not sure what this recently completed west Broadway building is called, it just says view condos on the awnings:
http://img31.imageshack.us/img31/1483/img4438aj.jpg

Development site, 6th & Fir:
http://img29.imageshack.us/img29/7807/img4447av.jpg

Possible development site? This is the NW corner of Fir and 6th, this building is vacant and fenced off:
http://img820.imageshack.us/img820/7541/img4446d.jpg

[entheosfog]

District:
http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/4117/img4635nu.jpg

http://img594.imageshack.us/img594/3121/img4636t.jpg

http://img546.imageshack.us/img546/6340/img4641g.jpg

http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/4884/img4637o.jpg

http://img199.imageshack.us/img199/4787/img4639k.jpg

http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/7930/img4640n.jpg

[entheosfog]

Social, finished for some time now:
http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/3537/img4643r.jpg

http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/2694/img4642mu.jpg

http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/8660/img4645dm.jpg

[entheosfog]

On Que:
http://img840.imageshack.us/img840/4800/img4664i.jpg

http://img828.imageshack.us/img828/9179/img4662g.jpg

http://img163.imageshack.us/img163/4084/img4663k.jpg

Mount Pleasant Substation:

http://img89.imageshack.us/img89/8004/img4677s.jpg

http://img37.imageshack.us/img37/5958/img4676hm.jpg

[phesto]

Despite rumours to the contrary, it appears the Molson Brewery will not be moving.

Vancouver’s Molson brewery staying put
http://www.vancourier.com/news/Vancouver+Molson+brewery+staying/5477632/story.html

[Prometheus]

Thanks for the photos, entheosfog.

Despite being a stubborn hold-out for decades, I think Broadway between Cambie and Main is finally poised to become much more retail-oriented and pedestrian-friendly over the next 8-10 years. Some little pieces are starting to fall into place.

[yogiderek]

So it seems that the demolition of Maxine's hideaway is starting in earnest. :) They seem to be working more on the inside now, plus, have placed large concrete interlocking slabs in front of the facade. Also, the new presentation centre at Concord pacific place is set up for Alexandra and looks like it will open soon. The loosers from the WEN are still out front trying to get you to sign a petition. They seem oblivious to the fact that it is no longer Millenium and is now Concord. Telling them off when you say its progress with the development is so satisfying.

[peterprinciple]

I am curious if anyone has information on what is planned for Jericho Beach area after now that the wharf is gone. Is there a development plan? Checking City of Van website for details but no luck. Thanks

[officedweller]

Check the Park Board website - it's just a beach as far as I know.

[SpongeG]

they just restored it to nature

vancouver needs more peirs - i would love to see one at english bay like they had way back in the day

[whatnext]

So it seems that the demolition of Maxine's hideaway is starting in earnest. :) They seem to be working more on the inside now, plus, have placed large concrete interlocking slabs in front of the facade. Also, the new presentation centre at Concord pacific place is set up for Alexandra and looks like it will open soon. The loosers from the WEN are still out front trying to get you to sign a petition. They seem oblivious to the fact that it is no longer Millenium and is now Concord. Telling them off when you say its progress with the development is so satisfying.

Progress is in the eye of the beholder. The original building was truly unique. The city would have been better off allowing some of the truly ugly three story walk-ups to be demolished in favour of higher density, but try finding a politician with the stones to do that.

[dreambrother808]

The Maxine's Hideaway facade is being maintained as part of the new development...

[entheosfog]

Emily Carr Centre for Digital Madia, Great Northern Way:
http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/5175/img4740e.jpg

http://img412.imageshack.us/img412/2623/img4737j.jpg

rendering:
http://img819.imageshack.us/img819/1150/img4739h.jpg

[entheosfog]

Police Property Office and Forensic Storage Facility, False Creek Flats area:
http://img692.imageshack.us/img692/1696/img4728crop.jpg

http://img844.imageshack.us/img844/2058/img4730s.jpg

[officedweller]

Thanks for the updates.

[sacrifice333]

Note the "mystery Alder tower" is a rental building called "The Wesley".

[sacrifice333]

New Led-Mac building at Fourth & Fir :: Radius (http://www.ledmac.com/radius/)

http://www.ledmac.com/_img/ledmac_radius.jpg

[Sir Conga]

Check out this news piece on the idea of turning the Port Mann and/or the Georgia/Dunsmuir Viaducts in to park space a la High Line. (http://www.bclocalnews.com/surrey_area/surreyleader/news/131185063.html)


The more I think about it, the more I love the idea of the Port Mann being a park/path. If it is cheaper than knocking it down, then it almost makes more sense. I could see part of the Dunsmuir Viaduct being a park, but certainly not both. Obviously if the Viaducts were to be changed, alternate roads would be needed.

[Alex Mackinnon]

As a disclamer, at times I'm a total square, but I can't help but judge these presentations as fluffier than most of the things posted in the transit fantasies thread.

I don't really see a highline viaduct as being all the useful. Half the complaining that the "experts" are making regarding the viaducts existence is about their built form dividing Chinatown from False Creek. Even if there's trees on the viaduct, it's still a big structure supposedly providing a barrier. It also doesn't help Concord much who supposedly hasn't learned how to build around a structure in it's decades of existence.

The other real question is do we really need more park in that area. With Vancouver pretty solidly in the red as far as debt goes, I would say no. From a utilitarian perspective, that particular park being particularly expensive from a cost point of view. Yes, it's a green space, but you still need to maintain the structure. Is there a particular demand for more park in this area which is already getting plenty added when Concord finally demos that godawful parking low.

It would be an expensive duplicate service, in an area generally very well furnished with parks. Apparently I don't like fluff.

[amor de cosmos]

COPE candidate calls for "Pinoytown"
VANCOUVER/CKNW(AM980)
Alison Bailey
10/9/2011

COPE city council candidate R.J. Aquino says if he is elected in November, he would work towards creating "Pinoytown".
Aquino says the idea began on social media after city council approved working towards designating Kingsway between Fraser and Nanaimo Streets, "Little Saigon."

"And I think it's just a good, an official recognition of the Filipino community is an important step towards recognizing the diversity in Vancouver."

If Pinoytown is created, it would be a portion of Fraser Street between Kingsway and 33rd.
Aquino says he wants to talk to everyone in the community to hear their opinions.
http://www.cknw.com/Channels/Reg/NewsLocal/Story.aspx?ID=1552666

[jlousa]

Japantown is dead, Chinatown has been dying , Little Italy is not really Italian anymore, Little India is withering and here we are creating new designations that don't have close to the history of the old ones. :shrug:

[SpongeG]

these communities have probably reached the levels that the older ones did when they first formed - there seem to be more and more filipinos every month here

[GeeCee]

Personally, I don't see the need for all these little communities.. but whatever, it's not like it harms anything.

FWIW, RJ is a good guy. Worked with him for a while a few years ago.

:tup:

[jsbertram]

Personally, I don't see the need for all these little communities.. but whatever, it's not like it harms anything.

FWIW, RJ is a good guy. Worked with him for a while a few years ago.

:tup:

There's no harm to anyone; its just a marketing scheme for a district.
We'll know in 10 years if everyone outside the area is still calling it "Little Saigon".

I lived at Commercial & 1st in the 80s when it was still well-known as "Little Italy". Every weekend the the 2nd and 3rd generation Italian families who'd moved away to Burnaby but would come back 'home' to the area visit their parents and do the grocery shopping at their favourite old-Italian markets. They didn't seem to mind that by the 1980s these old neighbourhood food markets were now owned by Vietnamese immigrants whose grasp of the Italian language was limited to knowing the names of the imported foods and their brands.

Only in Vancouver have I heard heard words like "Prosciutto" spoken with a Vietnamese accent.
It always made me smile.

[Sir Conga]

As a disclamer, at times I'm a total square, but I can't help but judge these presentations as fluffier than most of the things posted in the transit fantasies thread.

I don't really see a highline viaduct as being all the useful. Half the complaining that the "experts" are making regarding the viaducts existence is about their built form dividing Chinatown from False Creek. Even if there's trees on the viaduct, it's still a big structure supposedly providing a barrier. It also doesn't help Concord much who supposedly hasn't learned how to build around a structure in it's decades of existence.

The other real question is do we really need more park in that area. With Vancouver pretty solidly in the red as far as debt goes, I would say no. From a utilitarian perspective, that particular park being particularly expensive from a cost point of view. Yes, it's a green space, but you still need to maintain the structure. Is there a particular demand for more park in this area which is already getting plenty added when Concord finally demos that godawful parking low.

It would be an expensive duplicate service, in an area generally very well furnished with parks. Apparently I don't like fluff.

You are right on all accounts. We have enough park space in the area, and we perhaps cannot afford such investment. As a pipe dream, however, I love the idea of the Georgia Viaduct coming down, and having the Dunsmuir one converted into a park/bike path. Also, if the it's cheaper to convert than demolish the Port Mann, then why not??

I should say, I just wanted to reply your reply.... I discovered the thread dedicated to the Viaduct question... so I'll be there, on-topic, in the future.

[entheosfog]

Granville and 16th:
http://img856.imageshack.us/img856/1360/img4912m.jpg

http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/5941/img4911xw.jpg

http://img844.imageshack.us/img844/9617/img4910y.jpg

http://img835.imageshack.us/img835/6036/img4909h.jpg

[entheosfog]

Kits 360, at Burrard and 6th/7th:
http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/9864/img4926e.jpg

http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/1585/img4927et.jpg

[entheosfog]

Pinnacle Living on Broadway, west Broadway and Maple:
http://img854.imageshack.us/img854/5263/img4931i.jpg

http://img638.imageshack.us/img638/8408/img4932u.jpg

http://img710.imageshack.us/img710/9164/img4933q.jpg

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/7139/img4934n.jpg

[entheosfog]

This old building on Victoria drive was going through some renovations and the stucco was being removed when this old sign was revealed underneath. The owners have decided to leave the old sign exposed but the building now has a new layer of stucco on it:
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6213/6228741833_3ac2abd9b5_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/entheos_fog/6228741833/)
Revealed Old Sign (http://www.flickr.com/photos/entheos_fog/6228741833/) by entheos_fog (http://www.flickr.com/people/entheos_fog/), on Flickr

[Prometheus]

Nice updates.

Pinnacle Living is coming along. I guess the hobos have probably moved on from the railroad tracks now that there is no liquor store (good panhandling spot), no IGA (low cost food) and no parking lot (buffer from civilization).

[flight_from_kamakura]

actually, the iga there wasn't that cheap. man, i'm loving how it's shaping up. all told. fairly standard development, but wow, the change to the streetscape is just fantastic. thanks for the updates!

[vanman]

Thanks for all the hard work entheosfog! I was wondering how Pinnacle Living was shaping up. It's amazing how fast the Broadway corridor is urbanizing now.

[mhy]

Granville and 16th:
http://img856.imageshack.us/img856/1360/img4912m.jpg

I'm not a NIMBY, but I can't believe the city allowed this travesty to happen...

here's what was there before:
http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/6800/unledql.jpg

I can understand if this was for a mid-rise or highrise, but all for a 2-storey low-rise??? seems hardly worth it.

[hummingbird]

It looks terrible, quite ugly in fact. They should have left it alone or it would have been nice to have a green park there that overlooks the hill not some ugly construction like this. Ewww..

Also, who would want to live there and pay a million dollars for this junk it's too noisy in that corner.

[Prometheus]

It was not just a bunch of trees either. It was one of the last true, fully-intact manor estates from Vancouver's "guilded" age.

[giallo]

My friend's aunt lives in the house next to that lot/construction site, and I don't think she we too sad to see it go. I went over there a number of times and the lot was poorly maintained with raccoons EVERYWHERE. It was a mess.

[Prometheus]

My friend's aunt lives in the house next to that lot/construction site, and I don't think she we too sad to see it go. I went over there a number of times and the lot was poorly maintained with raccoons EVERYWHERE. It was a mess.

What a bizarre thing to feel. This was a beautiful, natural wooded area of a stately, century-old mansion. A true estate in Vancouver's last remaining gilded neighbourhood. I should hope there were raccoons there.

Perhaps these feelings flow from a fundamental difference in cultural background.

[SFUVancouver]

Great updates entheosfog! Pinnacle on Broadway has sprouted quickly, though I am still not a huge fan of that project. For a site likely on top of a SkyTrain station I think there should be more employment space on site, or additional uses which are larger trip generators than condos and relatively small CRUs at grade. I guess the biggest stumbling block was the inability to consolidate the entire IGA/parking lot/liquor store site.

My perspective is also changing the longer I am here in Toronto. A project of similar size and scope to Pinnacle on Broadway is going up in my neighbourhood and it is a block away from the streetcar line. Here a prominent site like Pinnacle's, which sits on a (future) subway line seems to warrant, at minimum, a medium to large floorplate 30+ storey residential highrise with a meaty four to six storeys of retail and office at grade.

[ckkelley]

What a bizarre thing to feel. This was a beautiful, natural wooded area of a stately, century-old mansion. A true estate in Vancouver's last remaining guilded neighbourhood. I should hope there were raccoons there.

Perhaps these feelings flow from a fundamental difference in cultural background.

Yeah, I dunno...sometimes these things are just a matter of opinion. Crazy, I know.

[whatnext]

My friend's aunt lives in the house next to that lot/construction site, and I don't think she we too sad to see it go. I went over there a number of times and the lot was poorly maintained with raccoons EVERYWHERE. It was a mess.

You could say the same of Stanley Park. If one doesn't value the closeness of tress and nature, they probably shouldn't be buying in Vancouver.

This development is completely inappropriate for the area. It looks like a fortress, sitting on a rampart wall.

[Coldrsx]

That's rather unfortunate.

[phesto]

Comparing a half-complete project to the previous condition of the site on a beautiful summer day isn't exactly fair. Personally, I'll reserve judgment until the landscaping is in.

I did 3 minutes' worth of research and found the following: http://vancouver.ca/ctyclerk/cclerk/20080214/documents/ph1yellowmemo2.pdf

- There will be a 44% increase in the number of trees on site following project completion
- The proposed landscape development will add 173 trees to the site. The trees slated for removal will be replaced at a rate of 144%
- Red Sunset Maples will wrap the curve of McRae.
- given the moderate to poor condition of the existing trees, selective tree retention would result in unacceptable safety risks

I am not suggesting that I think the finished product will look better than what was there before, but let's be realistic guys, if the City wanted to preserve the trees, their best option would've been to buy the land and make it a park. Even then the old trees' long term viability sounded questionable.

[dreambrother808]

Making esthetic judgements about a building barely finished, still covered in what looks like Densglass board?

:haha:

Really?

[officedweller]

Hmm - if all the stately mansions of the CPR were preserved with grounds intact - then there wouldn't be a West End. That was where most of the big mansions were before Shaughnessy opened up.
Remember that there's a highrise across 16th from that site and a medical office building kitty-corner. If you take a panoramic photo from the SW corner, I'm sure it'll place the site into better context.

[Prometheus]

Hmm - if all the stately mansions of the CPR were preserved with grounds intact - then there wouldn't be a West End.

And if all the turn-of-the-century commercial buildings were preserved in downtown, then there would be no modern central business district. But that is not an argument for destroying or encroaching on what is left of our commercial heritage: Gastown.

On the contrary. The fact that Gastown is our last remaining historical commercial district is precisely why it is such a treasure and adds so much richness to our city. And just as Gastown's value flows from its being our last remaining historical commercial district, so Shaughnessy Hill's value flows from its being our last remaining historical stately residential neighbourhood. If we lose it or further erode its integrity, it would be an impoverishment to our city and a source of lasting regret.

[Jebby]

That corner always seemed so gloomy to me. The grass was always muddy and it was dark. The 60s massive building across the street is hideous too...

[osirisboy]

first, that is the stupidest place for a park. second lets wait till the project is finished and landscaped before we make judgments. wholly just be patient guys

[Prometheus]

first, that is the stupidest place for a park. second lets wait till the project is finished and landscaped before we make judgments. wholly just be patient guys

It was not a park. It was the private wooded grounds of an extant century-old mansion and estate. It was the "back yard" of an historic Shaughnessy Hill home that fronts The Crescent.

[osirisboy]

It was not a park. It was the private wooded grounds of an extant century-old mansion and estate. It was the "back yard" of an historic Shaughnessy Hill home that fronts The Crescent.

I know what it was and I know it wasnt a park. my point is that it wouldve been a stupid idea to have it turned into a park

How about we wait until the project is finished and see then what it looks like.

[agrant]

I'm not a NIMBY, but I can't believe the city allowed this travesty to happen...

I can understand if this was for a mid-rise or highrise, but all for a 2-storey low-rise??? seems hardly worth it.Is this seriously a 2 storey development? What's the tower crane for?

[officedweller]

Probably because its concrete construction.

And if all the turn-of-the-century commercial buildings were preserved in downtown, then there would be no modern central business district. But that is not an argument for destroying or encroaching on what is left of our commercial heritage: Gastown.


Remember that the mansion is being preserved - so I suppose that the question is whether the mansion should continue to sit within the orginal context - a big treed "estate". i.e. whether "in-fill" should be allowed.

In respect of Gastown, the original context may be one without highrises or other infill development.

In respect of modernist buildings, the as-built context would be the wind-swept plaza (which have been or are being in-filled at various locations (CBC, Pacific Centre, Royal Centre).

[logan5]

And if all the turn-of-the-century commercial buildings were preserved in downtown, then there would be no modern central business district. But that is not an argument for destroying or encroaching on what is left of our commercial heritage: Gastown.


But Gastown is absorbing some residential density and commercial density. I agree with the Shaughnessy/West End analogy. Like the City Hall area, shaughnessy should subdivide their houses into 5 or 6 unit apartments and add some coach houses to some of these large properties.

[sacrifice333]

Has there been any marketing on the project?

Not even anything on MLS.

[Prometheus]

But Gastown is absorbing some residential density and commercial density.

But Gastown can accommodate the addition of residential density and new commercial infill while still remaining Gastown. That is the nature of the area: a vibrant and dynamic urban district where people work, live, create, perform, etc. The real sine qua non of Gastown is its remaining historic architecture, cobblestones, heritage street lamps, etc. As long as those things remain, Gastown (or its potential) will always remain.

Shaughnessy Hill, by contrast, cannot accommodate the addition of density and new multi-dwelling structures without destroying its essential character: the last remaining true genteel neighbourhood of grand, stately, private, single-family mansions from Vancouver's gilded age, where the privileged and captains of industry once lived. Shaughnessy Hill represents such a small area in the greater context of Vancouver, but it is of large historical importance. To irrevocably destroy that history--to destroy Vancouver's last remaining island of gilded tranquility and elegance--in exchange for a little more density (which could be easily gained in so many other areas) is pure mindlessness.



Like the City Hall area, shaughnessy should subdivide their houses into 5 or 6 unit apartments and add some coach houses to some of these large properties.

Your comparison proves my point precisely. The natures of the City Hall area and Shaughnessy Hill are fundamentally different. If Shaughnessy Hill was to become another modern-day Mount Pleasant, then something intrinsically valuable, something that makes our city richer, more diverse, interesting and beautiful, would be lost forever.

[Jebby]

But Gastown can accommodate the addition of residential density and new commercial infill while still remaining Gastown. That is the nature of the area: a vibrant and dynamic urban district where people work, live, create, perform, etc. The real sine qua non of Gastown is its remaining historic architecture.

Shaughnessy Hill, by contrast, cannot accommodate the addition of density and new multi-dwelling structures without destroying its essential character: the last remaining true genteel neighbourhood of grand, stately, private, single-family mansions from Vancouver's guilded age. Shaughnessy Hill represents such a small area in the greater context of Vancouver, but it is of large historical importance. To irrevocably destroy that history--to destroy Vancouver's last remaining island of guilded tranquility and elegance--in exchange for a little more density (which could be easily gained in so many other areas) is pure mindlessness.



Your comparison proves my point precisely. The natures of the City Hall area and Shaughnessy Hill are fundamentally different. If Shaughnessy Hill was to become another modern-day Mount Pleasant, then something intrinsically valuable, something that makes our city richer, more diverse, interesting and beautiful, would be lost forever.

I lived in Shaugnessy for most of the time I lived in Vancouver. Most of the houses are not old anymore, the vast majority are much newer, however what has been retained is the character. I think it would be a shame to subdivide all those lots and tear down these grand houses just for the sake of density.

As you say, Shaugnessy is a tiny percentage of Vancouver's land and it's a very distinct area with a lot of heritage and character. Unfortunately a lot of it has already been destroyed. There are many many instances of lots being subdivided already and crappy 1990's "luxury" (cardboard boxes really) homes built in their place. However, the area still has it's own beauty. I love all the tree lined streets, with trees that easily are as old as the oldest homes.

It's a high-wealth (sort of) residential area, and the city needs a variety of areas.

[logan5]

Shaughnessy Hill, by contrast, cannot accommodate the addition of density and new multi-dwelling structures without destroying its essential character...


Mt. Pleasant has done an excellent job of retaining its character, while at the same time adding density. Walking through the west side of Mt. Pleasant is far more interesting than walking through the more secluded Shaughnessy neighborhood.

[Prometheus]

Walking through the west side of Mt. Pleasant is far more interesting than walking through the more secluded Shaughnessy neighborhood.

Once again, you are reinforcing my point: the two neighbourhoods are significantly different. It is precisely those differences, from the colourful to the secluded, that add richness to the overall texture of Vancouver.

There are plenty of denser, more funky neighbourhoods with colourfully painted, sub-divided heritage homes, from Mt. Pleasant to Strathcona to Mole Hill to Kitsilano. But Shaughnessy Hill is unique. Not only are the mansions on The Crescent far more grand and stately than anything in those neighbourhoods, Shaughnessy Hill has largely retained its original character of genteel elegance and turn-of-the-century tranquility and privilege.

You may not appreciate or value that difference for some reason, but turning Shaughnessy into another Mt. Pleasant would be an unnecessary loss of cultural diversity and heritage for Vancouver.

[dreambrother808]

guilded age

Gilded age.

I rather appreciate the character of Shaughnessy, and used to live there even. I just don't see how the the area is being destroyed by this one development.

[logan5]

My point was that you can still retain the moderate character of Shaughnessy and add density. The neighborhood sits on the edge of the Metro Core and needs to adjust, the same way the West End adjusted back in the day, maybe to a lesser extent, maybe not. Really this area is utilized by only a privileged few, who live in huge houses on huge lots right on the doorstep of the Metro Core.

Unless you believe hidden density would alter the character of the neighborhood in a negative way?

[hummingbird]

Well it's made of concrete so at the very least that will stop the crazy drivers on Granville from crashing into the building or te building burning down quickly.

[Prometheus]

My point was that you can still retain the moderate character of Shaughnessy and add density.

And my point was that you cannot, once you grasp the true character of Shaughnessy, in particular around The Crescent and Shaughnessy Park.



Really this area is utilized by only a privileged few, who live in huge houses on huge lots right on the doorstep of the Metro Core.

Precisely. It is exactly the privileged nature, exclusivity and stateliness of the neighbourhood wherein its true authenticity and essential character lie. To have one last century-old neighbourhood where Vancouver's original captains of industry and wealthy once resided remain largely intact, in body and in spirit, is a treasure, especially on the doorstep of the metro core.



Unless you believe hidden density would alter the character of the neighborhood in a negative way?

I do, since it is precisely its lack of density and its seclusion which form its essential character. Moreover, a row of attached townhomes where the wooded grounds of a grand estate once stood is hardly hidden density.

This last enclave (Shaughnessy) is as small as it is unique. As I said before, to irrevocably destroy it in exchange for an increase in density (which could be easily gained in so many other areas) is irrational.

[quobobo]

Precisely. It is exactly the privileged nature, exclusivity and stateliness of the neighbourhood wherein its true authenticity and essential character lie. To have one last century-old neighbourhood where Vancouver's original captains of industry and wealthy once resided remain largely intact, in body and in spirit, is a treasure, especially on the doorstep of the metro core.

Er, wow. You want to preserve the exclusivity of a neighbourhood? Personally I'm not desperate enough for heritage to do that - I'm really glad that lot made way for new development.

[phesto]

@Prometheus, I agree with most of your points regarding preserving the house as is; unfortunately the real kicker in this case was that the wooded grounds was actually a separate legal lot that was never developed; it wasn't technically part of the same estate lot (though a small portion was used as part of the backyard).

Ultimately in terms of preserving the house, this is a good thing. There is a heritage revitalization agreement now in place that will protect the house in the same location for a long time with most of the front and rear gardens intact. Just as is the case with other heritage buildings in this city, an HRA has to come with some benefit to the owner. In this case it was done in conjunction with the rezoning for 15-townhouses. They had also considered moving the house on the site, which would've been far worse. I guess at the end of the day the City's heritage commission felt the loss of the wooded area was a fair trade-off to protect the house and gardens in their current location.

Also the City has made it quite clear that the unique circumstances of this site ensures this type of rezoning will not occur elsewhere in Shaughnessy.

There have actually been a couple of houses on the heritage register in Shaughnessy that have been illegally demolished where the owner preferred to pay the hefty fine rather than to not redevelop (as a result of high lot values). Sadly, many of the newer owners in this area do not place much value in the existing structures as they do the lot/address. Hopefully the City will realize the area's importance and implement more mechanisms to designate more homes heritage beyond the only 5-6 Shaughnessy homes currently protected under designation.

[s211]

But Gastown is absorbing some residential density and commercial density. I agree with the Shaughnessy/West End analogy. Like the City Hall area, shaughnessy should subdivide their houses into 5 or 6 unit apartments and add some coach houses to some of these large properties.

Should? Do you have any idea how many of the houses have been subdivided already, and how many coach houses have already been converted also? Lots of them.

[LeftCoaster]

I totally agree that keeping Shaughnessy as it is should be done. it is a very beautiful and unique part of the city and it would be a total shame to see it lost.

That said this one development on a busy corner I would consider an anomaly. I wont get concerned until multiunit proposals pop up on the crescent.

[red-paladin]

I agree that such districts should be preserved.
The fact that in this case we are talking about a bunch of mansions, and this represents wealth inequality doesn't really change my mind, as while I would agree that European castles or the Stalinist seven sisters also represent wealth inequality, they should also clearly not be 'redeveloped'.

[jsbertram]

Well it's made of concrete so at the very least that will stop the crazy drivers on Granville from crashing into the building or te building burning down quickly.

I hereby submit the name "Shaughnessy Ramparts" for this development, although I haven't figured out where the cannons are going to be mounted.

NO doubt in my mind this is the first phase in the construction of Fort Shaughnessy to keep the pesky riff-raff away from their hallowed grounds.

[SpongeG]

a lot of those old mansions are actually broken up into duplexes and fourplexes - people are willing to pay a lot to live in one of the old mansions for the "prestige" that comes with the name shaugnessy

[jlousa]

Lots of activity around the Granville St off ramp these days.

: 1616 West 7th Avenue
DE: 415127
Use: To develop an 11-storey residential building with underground parking off the rear lane.
Zoning: C-3A
Application Status: Complete
Review: First
Architect: IBI/HB Architects


Going to the Urban design panel on the 19th.

[LeftCoaster]

Right across from the supportive housing site? Too bad they couldn't have switched locations because the 7th and fir building will block a lot of the mountain views I would imagine.

Any idea on what FSR this thing is going for?

[jlousa]

Don't know for sure, but probably around the 3.3 range, would be surprised if it's asking for anything near 5.

[entheosfog]

There some pile-driving action happening on the south side of the 300 block of Terminal. This was earlier this week and these piles are now halfway in the ground. Not sure what's happening as the site isn't fenced off or anything:
http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/663/dscn2388d.jpg

and hopefully I'll be back later this weekend with some photo updates again, I've had a busy last week or so :)

[kw5150]

Good to see Vancouver filling in even more. I love all of the low-mid rise stuff.