[Halifax] Nova Centre | 65-58-58 m | 16-15-14 fl | Completed

[fenwick16]

Most of the ballroom steel has now been put in place. Curtain wall should be next!



The pictures that you posted show how impressive the Nova Centre is. I am looking forward to seeing the glass curtain wall.

[Wishblade]

I was on the Dartmouth waterfront today and took a pic of the impact this is having so far:

http://s14.postimg.org/czs0xa66p/006.jpg

[Duff]

From George St.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5637/22632639708_9d9647749b_h.jpg

[portapetey]

Great shots guys. It is really filling in a big hole in the skyline.

I only wish it were taller. It's so *squat*.

[beyeas]

Hopefully the glass will lighten the feel of it. Right now, with just pure concrete, it is a bit overwhelming.

[counterfactual]

I was on the Dartmouth waterfront today and took a pic of the impact this is having so far:

http://s14.postimg.org/czs0xa66p/006.jpg

Will the pointy peak on the Nova Centre be visible from across the water?

It would seem from this rendering (and the pic above) it should be!

Interesting and happily different addition to our skyline:

http://atlantic.ctvnews.ca/polopoly_fs/1.1375046.1374270609!/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_960/image.jpg

[Wishblade]

^ It will, but probably only until The Roy tops out. Once that happens I think it will be hard to get a good vantage point of it from Dartmouth.

This was posted by Someone123 in the Canada section a while back and gives a pretty good idea of the orientation of the structure:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7352/12628471683_6cecbd4d07_o.png

[IanWatson]

First glass panel is up. It's on the Argyle side across from the Carleton.

[Jonovision]

Sat and watched them install it today!

http://40.media.tumblr.com/fd59b8208bd335c357de04b72c4c91ce/tumblr_ny33h2M1aM1sk8kjeo1_1280.jpg

http://40.media.tumblr.com/47077798de66986d383ef3d5055a73da/tumblr_ny33h2M1aM1sk8kjeo2_1280.jpg

[Keith P.]

Such excitement! ;)

[lawsond]

Such excitement! ;)

it looks quite reflective too and that is a good thing with this one. I was happy to see the transparent glass on the new TD as it looks very moderne. But with a beast this huge, you need some reflectiveness to lighten it up. I think it is going to work very well. Can't wait to see the pointy "bow" of this ship.

[lawsond]

double post

[Ziobrop]

Inside, looking out.
from http://novacenter.builthalifax.ca/
http://40.media.tumblr.com/b5f56b3d04c059369f6f8ec5727f0376/tumblr_ny4htgYJ6Q1sjmgsso1_1280.jpg

[portapetey]

Inside, looking out.
from http://novacenter.builthalifax.ca/
http://40.media.tumblr.com/b5f56b3d04c059369f6f8ec5727f0376/tumblr_ny4htgYJ6Q1sjmgsso1_1280.jpg

There'd be a great view if we could just get that stupid Carleton out of the way.

I jest!

[worldlyhaligonian]

That blue / reflectiveness looks on point. Not too 80s, but not the wrong colour or overly clear.

[Keith P.]

I went past there today. It is very BMO-blue.

[portapetey]

Can someone clarify something for me?

This may seem a dumb question, but how many towers does this development really have? My eye sees one narrow tower along Granville, and one very wide tower along Argyle St. But I could swear the project was always discussed in terms of three towers, and I get the impression that the wide tower on Argyle is still discussed as it it were two towers.

Am I missing something?

I tried to find more detailed renderings to see if there is some narrow gap between two sections along Argyle, but I can't find anything.

[fenwick16]

Can someone clarify something for me?

This may seem a dumb question, but how many towers does this development really have? My eye sees one narrow tower along Granville, and one very wide tower along Argyle St. But I could swear the project was always discussed in terms of three towers, and I get the impression that the wide tower on Argyle is still discussed as it it were two towers.

Am I missing something?

I tried to find more detailed renderings to see if there is some narrow gap between two sections along Argyle, but I can't find anything.


Initially it was to be one wide hotel tower along Argyle and one short office tower where the hotel is now. In addition, the podium would have a few floors of office space.

The office tower, which is now where the hotel was to have been, is essentially one wide tower but is recessed in the center to break up the bulk somewhat (I assume) but it is really just one wide tower.

[Ziobrop]

Can someone clarify something for me?

This may seem a dumb question, but how many towers does this development really have? My eye sees one narrow tower along Granville, and one very wide tower along Argyle St. But I could swear the project was always discussed in terms of three towers, and I get the impression that the wide tower on Argyle is still discussed as it it were two towers.

Am I missing something?

I tried to find more detailed renderings to see if there is some narrow gap between two sections along Argyle, but I can't find anything.

argyle is 2 - though some floors will have a continuous floor plate, mech rooms etc dont make it continuous.

[fenwick16]

I found a floor plan here - http://novacentre.ca/corporate-leasing/floor-plans. There are separate elevators for each section (or tower) so the towers can be rented as one continuous floor plate or broken into two.

This image is too large to post - http://novacentre.ca/sites/default/files/styles/floorplan_desktop_extra_wide/public/level-8-13-open-layout-full.png?itok=kbHpFBX_&timestamp=1445279855

[portapetey]

Thanks guys. As I thought. It's really just one tower :-)

[Jonovision]

Thanks guys. As I thought. It's really just one tower :-)

It's a bit tricky, cause they are also marketing them to potential office clients as 2 towers with options to blow out the centre and make it one large floor plate. Not sure why this is the case.

This is from really early this morning and you can't quite tell in the image, but there are two different tones of glass. The one pain on the left side of the inset is a different colour from the rest. I'll try to get a better pic when the weather clears.

http://40.media.tumblr.com/069c9eb039ac5b4ce269a95a635adb42/tumblr_ny7t83uNS01sk8kjeo1_1280.jpg

[IanWatson]

Are you sure they're different tones of glass? I walked by this morning and they looked the same to me.

[Jonovision]

Are you sure they're different tones of glass? I walked by this morning and they looked the same to me.

I'll have to look again, but yesterday in the rain it still looked like it was a bit more green.

I also noticed that on the hotel tower there are only facade brackets on every second floor?

[TheGreenBastard]

I'll have to look again, but yesterday in the rain it still looked like it was a bit more green.

I also noticed that on the hotel tower there are only facade brackets on every second floor?

Definitely different.

http://i.imgur.com/HI5HCKEl.jpg



EDIT: THIS IS MY FIRST POST. HOW DO I MAKE THE IMAGE SMALLER

[Nouvellecosse]

Definitely different.

http://i.imgur.com/HI5HCKEl.jpg



EDIT: THIS IS MY FIRST POST. HOW DO I MAKE THE IMAGE SMALLER

Imgur lets you shrink it by sticking l at the end of the filename before the file extension.

[TheGreenBastard]

Imgur lets you shrink it by sticking l at the end of the filename before the file extension.

Thanks! :cheers:

[Hali87]

I walked by today and the two tones are basically TD-green and 1801-blue.

[IanWatson]

I stand corrected. I walked by today and there are definitely two tones. I would say they're the same 1801 Hollis blue glass but some have insulation behind them.

[worldlyhaligonian]

Nice, that basically ties our glass palette for most of downtown together. I don't think one colour would look as good as this combo.

1801 level blue or more like the other blue on TD?

[RoshanMcG]

Looking good!

http://i.imgur.com/5NuaOTJl.jpg

[Jonovision]

A few more to show the contrast.

http://41.media.tumblr.com/b7b31a1c78f32ec3be7dffdb05724902/tumblr_nydomciXpd1sk8kjeo2_1280.jpg

http://36.media.tumblr.com/bafb7f913c7e66c206fd9fc9340dabf2/tumblr_nydomciXpd1sk8kjeo1_1280.jpg

http://40.media.tumblr.com/6dbdea18633650248d5a1531f344b32f/tumblr_nye0nrAokw1sk8kjeo4_1280.jpg

http://40.media.tumblr.com/bdff218bbf7161d45ae4591bc555d6e5/tumblr_nye0nrAokw1sk8kjeo1_1280.jpg

[Metalsales]

The two tones of glass are because some are vision area and the others are spandrel glass with a backpan behind it. Usually at floor slabs are Or where interior partitions come into the glass.

A lot of new buildings are also using shadow boxes. Basically it is where you use the same glass units everywhere, but in the places backpans are, you put an aluminum sheet I front of the insulated backpan, giving a shadow look in those locations

[worldlyhaligonian]

Very nice looking glass, definitely ties in elements of other palettes in the city.

If International Place ever gets built, it should be in a similar blue.

[Ziobrop]

The two tones of glass are because some are vision area and the others are spandrel glass with a backpan behind it. Usually at floor slabs are Or where interior partitions come into the glass.

A lot of new buildings are also using shadow boxes. Basically it is where you use the same glass units everywhere, but in the places backpans are, you put an aluminum sheet I front of the insulated backpan, giving a shadow look in those locations

from the backside:
http://41.media.tumblr.com/bdded9cbced576517dde6c61bc0e306a/tumblr_nyfrd6t8ZO1sjmgsso1_500.jpg

[Jonovision]

The two tones of glass are because some are vision area and the others are spandrel glass with a backpan behind it. Usually at floor slabs are Or where interior partitions come into the glass.

A lot of new buildings are also using shadow boxes. Basically it is where you use the same glass units everywhere, but in the places backpans are, you put an aluminum sheet I front of the insulated backpan, giving a shadow look in those locations

There is that element, but there are also two different colours being used. The bulk of the tower is the sea foamesk glass that you can see on the left and on the right is a more blue hue. This appears to be what will be used to highlight the varying architectural elements of the massing.

http://41.media.tumblr.com/5896aa6882b7234c26a015252ccae06e/tumblr_nyg18cwJIT1sk8kjeo1_1280.jpg

http://36.media.tumblr.com/b8c905c4a35df6acdd6bf51f73212828/tumblr_nyg18cwJIT1sk8kjeo3_1280.jpg

[q12]

https://shawglobalnews.files.wordpress.com/2015/11/downtown-businesses.jpg?quality=70&strip=all&w=720&h=480&crop=1
Via Global Halifax: http://globalnews.ca/news/2366643/small-downtown-business-suffering-due-to-nova-centre-construction/?hootPostID=c6df5c1a08831bbaf5784be7d4858535

[Jonovision]

http://40.media.tumblr.com/627513485467918401affcd1cca9aa48/tumblr_nymsf4SZAx1sk8kjeo3_1280.jpg

http://36.media.tumblr.com/9eaba6e97215cbfc8686b26653ed20f9/tumblr_nymsf4SZAx1sk8kjeo2_1280.jpg

[Metalsales]

from the backside:
http://41.media.tumblr.com/bdded9cbced576517dde6c61bc0e306a/tumblr_nyfrd6t8ZO1sjmgsso1_500.jpg

Hmmm...This must have to do with the new Energy code and the amount of vision area you can have on a building.

First project I have seen with the spandrel and backpan used in what could be a vision area.

[Hali87]

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/777/22809930324_52e502939d_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/AKCRAL)
Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/AKCRAL) by Hali87 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/72021271@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/770/23438282905_c07658620c_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/BHajVX)
Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/BHajVX) by Hali87 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/72021271@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/734/23330842162_900b849481_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/BxEExm)
Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/BxEExm) by Hali87 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/72021271@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/711/23329902852_a40df726a4_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/BxzRjm)
Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/BxzRjm) by Hali87 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/72021271@N05/), on Flickr

[OldDartmouthMark]

Great pics! I especially like perspective on the "sail".

[IanWatson]

Maybe someone on the forum can explain the mechanics of curtain walls to me.

On the Prince side of the building one of the glass panels got broken (oops!) and is now covered with plywood. How does one go about replacing a panel of glass in a curtain wall system? All the other panels around it have been put in place, so it looks to my untrained eye that that panel's assembly is locked in place and has no way to come out.

Metalsales, Zio: please enlighten me.

[Metalsales]

Curtainwalls have two main configurations, Captured and Structurally Glazed.

Captured(Capped) systems mean that the glass is held in by a Pressure Plate and this is then covered by an Aluminum Cap. This is what you will mostly see as you walk around Halifax. The pressure plates are held on by screws that screw into the framing members.

Structurally Glazed systems mean that the Glass is held into the framing system with Silicone. You see this a lot more on larger projects as you can get a cleaner look as there is nothing protruding past the face of the glass. You typically have a 5/8" bead of black silicone in between each glass light.

The NOVA center is Structurally glazed. When a pane of glass breaks, they need to cut the glass out and then reinstall and re-silicone into the opening.

Ill see if I can find some of our details for each system and post so you can see the difference.

[RangerNS]

I think, whatever the details of the pre-assembled and easy to install frames, once installed, the actual glass part is exactly as easy (or tricky) to replace as if it wasn't in an pre-assembled unit.

[Jonovision]

Things are starting to change rapidly now and some of the largest pieces of curtainwall I have ever seen have been installed on the ballroom floor.

Yesterday.

http://36.media.tumblr.com/6627bf76f2be4e27e8e7b60d48255775/tumblr_nyr6ssQoue1sk8kjeo1_1280.jpg

http://40.media.tumblr.com/88f36fb0fae4947255bfb09a3a11679e/tumblr_nyr6ssQoue1sk8kjeo4_1280.jpg

It is very reflective glass. Looks great in the different lighting.

http://36.media.tumblr.com/122f795f342fe2b159ceef97b38529a1/tumblr_nyr6ssQoue1sk8kjeo3_1280.jpg

[Jonovision]

Some from today. You can see the broken glass that Ian mentioned.

http://40.media.tumblr.com/2075ca3c2343aa92467c13ee88ca0c09/tumblr_nyqyiorCDB1sk8kjeo2_1280.jpg

http://40.media.tumblr.com/1e7981388184ec22a72bab88ea4fa8f6/tumblr_nyqyiorCDB1sk8kjeo3_1280.jpg

http://36.media.tumblr.com/dec272c35c248781eb271c016c300512/tumblr_nyqyiorCDB1sk8kjeo4_1280.jpg

http://40.media.tumblr.com/ea82856b04d22e56774713a9dc385e7d/tumblr_nyqyiorCDB1sk8kjeo5_1280.jpg

http://40.media.tumblr.com/fd00fd27d250f07758e6ab197f45c8fb/tumblr_nyqyi8XPWY1sk8kjeo3_1280.jpg

http://41.media.tumblr.com/d8904a5576f0223d0a874840d63797ec/tumblr_nyqyi8XPWY1sk8kjeo1_1280.jpg

[Metalsales]

I'm interested to see if this building will pose the same "bird problem" as many of the buildings in larger cities.

There are many advances in glazing that prevent this but not sure any of these we're onside red for this project

[fenwick16]

Can the curtain wall be installed throughout the winter months even in cold weather? (other than it being uncomfortable for the installers)

[Ziobrop]

Can the curtain wall be installed throughout the winter months even in cold weather? (other than it being uncomfortable for the installers)

yes.
though i think they want as much of it up as possible before it gets too cold.
keeps the snow out, and makes it warmer for the workers inside by keeping weather out, and heat in

[IanWatson]

Curtainwalls have two main configurations, Captured and Structurally Glazed.

Captured(Capped) systems mean that the glass is held in by a Pressure Plate and this is then covered by an Aluminum Cap. This is what you will mostly see as you walk around Halifax. The pressure plates are held on by screws that screw into the framing members.

Structurally Glazed systems mean that the Glass is held into the framing system with Silicone. You see this a lot more on larger projects as you can get a cleaner look as there is nothing protruding past the face of the glass. You typically have a 5/8" bead of black silicone in between each glass light.

The NOVA center is Structurally glazed. When a pane of glass breaks, they need to cut the glass out and then reinstall and re-silicone into the opening.

Ill see if I can find some of our details for each system and post so you can see the difference.

Thanks for the info! I always appreciate how much expertise has been brought together on this board.

[someone123]

The view up Prince Street is a bit more impressive now. The black building is looking a little rough though.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/772/23158019909_2c83a463e3_b.jpg
Source (https://www.flickr.com/photos/vicch/23158019909/)

[Jonovision]

[QUOTE=someone123;7259215]The view up Prince Street is a bit more impressive now. The black building is looking a little rough though.

The Joe Howe building is under renovation. They are taking their time but North face of the building along Prince has been all cleaned up and looks great. Hopefully this side will be next.

Still can't get over how reflective this building is. Argyle will be just as bright, if not brighter with all that blue sky reflected down on it.

http://40.media.tumblr.com/c327b461bbead3fc272b82678fb28a7a/tumblr_nyzvu1R4sG1sk8kjeo1_1280.jpg

http://36.media.tumblr.com/67f189eff02fd9a3bb2d89d6af14b088/tumblr_nyzvu1R4sG1sk8kjeo3_1280.jpg

http://40.media.tumblr.com/1ab24a32b4b4a84e73526b1e15778c40/tumblr_nyzvu1R4sG1sk8kjeo2_1280.jpg

http://40.media.tumblr.com/c92fc2f1ef6c976ae1a9501374149f26/tumblr_nyzvu1R4sG1sk8kjeo5_1280.jpg

[kwajo]

[QUOTE=someone123;7259215]The view up Prince Street is a bit more impressive now. The black building is looking a little rough though.

The Joe Howe building is under renovation. They are taking their time but North face of the building along Prince has been all cleaned up and looks great. Hopefully this side will be next.



That's good to hear, the Joe Howe building is one of my favourites in Halifax, I love the detailing of the vertical steel on the outside, it's very well done and as a slightly austere yet beautiful formality to the building as a whole.

[Jonovision]

http://36.media.tumblr.com/656cde7e8dd109b9b4ffed16c55a4521/tumblr_nz8zgzesY71sk8kjeo4_1280.jpg

http://40.media.tumblr.com/8c6bcd03579d98eb21aa3cc0b6f2057e/tumblr_nz8zgnuEZR1sk8kjeo1_1280.jpg

http://40.media.tumblr.com/559c45fb038d83e6a9fa27ca3eebc9ed/tumblr_nz8zgnuEZR1sk8kjeo2_1280.jpg

[Jonovision]

http://41.media.tumblr.com/84bd10ab6fe410ac09b811230abffafb/tumblr_nz943o6aEV1sk8kjeo2_1280.jpg

[q12]

http://40.media.tumblr.com/8c6bcd03579d98eb21aa3cc0b6f2057e/tumblr_nz8zgnuEZR1sk8kjeo1_1280.jpg]

Damn it! I can't see the refinery (marine terminal)... :lynchmob:

[Jonovision]

http://41.media.tumblr.com/cb217aa6535788d9c97b05e763f5c81f/tumblr_nzapd7tf981sk8kjeo3_1280.jpg

[teddifax]

Damn it! I can't see the refinery (marine terminal)... :lynchmob:

Why is the base of the hotel building facing west so bleak and bare?

[scryer]

I gotta say, this is one FINE looking building for Halifax!

[ILoveHalifax]

Why is the base of the hotel building facing west so bleak and bare?

Having attended one of the public meetings, I understand that the west side of the complex along Market St is the service area.
I also believe there will be an effort to have some sort of art installation all along Market St

[teddifax]

Having attended one of the public meetings, I understand that the west side of the complex along Market St is the service area.
I also believe there will be an effort to have some sort of art installation all along Market St

Great to know, thank you, I am sure with this, it will now not be
bleak!!

[eastcoastal]

Having attended one of the public meetings, I understand that the west side of the complex along Market St is the service area.
I also believe there will be an effort to have some sort of art installation all along Market St

... hopeful that Halifax steps up its art installation game on this one...

[Keith P.]

... hopeful that Halifax steps up its art installation game on this one...

One hundred million little lighthouses.

[teddifax]

One hundred million little lighthouses.

Ha,ha, pleaaaaaseeeee, say it isn't so!!!!!

[Ziobrop]

Great to know, thank you, I am sure with this, it will now not be
bleak!!

The on Market, the sackville st. end will be retail, but the prince st. side will be the loading docks.

[Hali87]

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5821/23804199062_35af3a5899_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CguK4d)
Via Argyle (https://flic.kr/p/CguK4d) by Hali87 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/72021271@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5617/23804237972_e7cfbe2283_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/CguWC5)
Via Grafton (https://flic.kr/p/CguWC5) by Hali87 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/72021271@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5783/23616849410_f6e3816225_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/BYWwwN)
Via Barrington (https://flic.kr/p/BYWwwN) by Hali87 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/72021271@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/695/23616381410_f1e9e2a7f9_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/BYU8pQ)
Via Sackville (https://flic.kr/p/BYU8pQ) by Hali87 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/72021271@N05/), on Flickr

[hoser111]

It's interesting how unimposing it is from that angle looking up Sackville yet quite the the opposite looking up a little north on Barrington.

[Hali87]

Part of it is that the building at Barrington/Sackville is about 3 storeys higher than the one at Barrington/Prince, so more of the Nova Centre is visible in the second case.

[fenwick16]

The glass cladding is progressing nicely.

It is good to see that they have a section of glass on the Sackville Street side, maybe they will soon have that side closed in. Once the Ballroom is closed in, they could start finishing the interior of the Ballroom.

[RangerNS]

They posted the "official" updates just before xmas at : http://novacentre.ca/construction-updates/december-2015



GENERAL UPDATE:

95% of the structure is complete at this point and now sits 283 feet above Argyle Street.
To date, roughly 40,000 cubic metres of concrete have been poured.
184 sections of building glass and 17 pieces of the ‘blue box’ glazing have been installed.
The deck over the ballroom is nearly complete with roofing schedules to start in the new year.
The main structure of the convention centre is almost complete.
Installation of the aluminum framing for the levels below L3 is underway.
Installation of the curtain wall system is underway up to level 8. The installation will now begin to ‘corkscrew’ around the building on two elevations.
Nova Centre is only the second project in Atlantic Canada using a unitized glazing system. The unitized system reduces a significant amount of on-site labour and helps to enclose the building faster by installing prefabricated glass and frame units, which are lifted into position using a crane.

WHAT’S COMING UP IN DECEMBER:

The installation of elevators and escalators will continue.
Installation of the ‘blue box’ glazing is underway and the face of Argyle will be completed before the end of December.
Interior framing will begin in both the convention centre as well as the cores.

[terrynorthend]

They posted the "official" updates just before xmas at : http://novacentre.ca/construction-updates/december-2015



GENERAL UPDATE:

95% of the structure is complete at this point and now sits 283 feet above Argyle Street.


283 feet above Argyle? This seems high to me. Wouldn't that equate to approximately 28 stories?

[fenwick16]

283 feet above Argyle? This seems high to me. Wouldn't that equate to approximately 28 stories?

They might mean an elevation of 283 feet above sea level since I remember seeing drawings where it was written as a sea level elevation. It is a mistake on the Nova Centre website; I assume they must mean that it is at an elevation of 283 above sea level.

The following document shows a maximum height above Argyle Street of 214' 7" and that the average grade of Argyle Street is 84' 8" [above sea level] - http://www.halifax.ca/municipalclerk/documents/18708siteandbuildingplansandimagesoftheproposal.pdf. Thus I think the final elevation would be 214' 7" + 84' 8" = 299' 3" above sea level.

[terrynorthend]

They might mean an elevation of 283 feet above sea level since I remember seeing drawings where it was written as a sea level elevation. It is a mistake on the Nova Centre website; I assume they must mean that it is at an elevation of 283 above sea level.

The following document shows a maximum height above Argyle Street of 214' 7" and that the average grade of Argyle Street is 84' 8" [above sea level] - http://www.halifax.ca/municipalclerk/documents/18708siteandbuildingplansandimagesoftheproposal.pdf. Thus I think the final elevation would be 214' 7" + 84' 8" = 299' 3" above sea level.

Ah, yes that makes sense. Still though, I'm impressed its going to top out at 215'. Taller than I had expected based on straight floor count. Guess some of those base floors are quite vaulted.

[fenwick16]

When I look at renderings I am still impressed by the complexity of the architectural/structural elements of the Nova Centre.

I think Joe Ramia deserves a civic award for being able to pull this off considering that he had to arrange the financing until the first payment (from the federal government) is received upon completion, coordinate the construction and design, and deal with the opposition that tried repeatedly to derail the process.

PS: I think that anyone who is impressed by the new Central Library will be blown away by the Nova Centre when it opens to the public.

[Keith P.]

When I look at renderings I am still impressed by the complexity of the architectural/structural elements of the Nova Centre.

I think Joe Ramia deserves a civic award for being able to pull this off considering that he had to arrange the financing until the first payment (from the federal government) is received upon completion, coordinate the construction and design, and deal with the opposition that tried repeatedly to derail the process.

He is still having to deal with the incessant negativity of the obsessed Tim Bousquet, who unleashed a new mudslinging campaign today against Ramia and MP Andy Fillmore over this. What is even worse is that the comments on Bousquet's site reveal a number of people who simply nod and believe anything he posts. Very sad indeed.

PS: I think that anyone who is impressed by the new Central Library will be blown away by the Nova Centre when it opens to the public.

Not very many people seem impressed by the Library now that it is open for a year. "Cold and antiseptic" is what one hears about the stack o'glass.

[Hali87]

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1623/23406592543_7806e151fe_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/BEmUup)
Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/BEmUup) by Hali87 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/72021271@N05/), on Flickr

[eastcoastal]

... Not very many people seem impressed by the Library now that it is open for a year. "Cold and antiseptic" is what one hears about the stack o'glass.

I haven't heard cold and antiseptic. Anyone I know with kids loves the place... most of my contemporaries without kids like the space: I've asked if they find it cold - they describe it as sleek and urban. My parents think it's exciting.

I can see how cold and antiseptic could be leveled at it by some (as a matter of taste... one person's sleek is another's sterile), but I think the use of wood grain (not sure it's actually wood) on the floor is helpful, and the furniture is quite nice.

[Nouvellecosse]

It may look cold and antiseptic on the exterior, but inside there's far too much colour, pattern, and texture for that. Perhaps the people saying that haven't actually been inside?

Unless of course they were talking to someone who didn't like it and listening to them rile about how it was the worse thing since ebola, and were just trying to think of something negative to say to avoid conflict.

[musicman]

I personally love the new library. But liking something is a very subjective thing. I love how it flows, and how there is always a feeling of excitement in the air even after it being open of over a year.

[Hali87]

but I think the use of wood grain (not sure it's actually wood) on the floor is helpful, and the furniture is quite nice.

I'm pretty sure the flooring is engineered hardwood.

[someone123]

https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5759/24080333816_fff83f9f07_b.jpg
Source (https://www.flickr.com/photos/112316817@N03/24080333816/)

[Jonovision]

More glazing going up on the ballroom today. Should be done in a few days.

http://41.media.tumblr.com/97099f74caa7b64abf8a49ed6e93b1d5/tumblr_o0jrcbxbeS1sk8kjeo1_1280.jpg

http://41.media.tumblr.com/d602bf802ae21b5ea04075cc83ba98d6/tumblr_o0jrcbxbeS1sk8kjeo2_1280.jpg

[TheGreenBastard]

http://i.imgur.com/GrvvSlBl.jpg


Coming along.

[teddifax]

I think this is going to look amazing!

[Duff]

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1491/24298978355_5b1cba5582_h.jpg

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1676/24298978135_bee83ec216_h.jpg

[teddifax]

I think they should shorten the name or give it a nickname of HaliCon . Then we can have HalCon at the HaliCon!!!

[Hali87]

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1697/23693447514_927d061dd1_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/C6H7tL)
Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/C6H7tL) by Hali87 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/72021271@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1652/23693438064_60e8cf6eac_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/C6H4EQ)
Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/C6H4EQ) by Hali87 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/72021271@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1485/24295462866_70b36d91b8_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/D1UAEN)
Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/D1UAEN) by Hali87 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/72021271@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1583/23694817143_39f62885b1_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/C6Q8C4)
Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/C6Q8C4) by Hali87 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/72021271@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1458/23693419054_fd2f410217_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/C6GY25)
Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/C6GY25) by Hali87 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/72021271@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1576/24295462556_2debbc3653_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/D1UAzs)
Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/D1UAzs) by Hali87 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/72021271@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1541/24295494696_31c136e58f_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/D1UL8A)
Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/D1UL8A) by Hali87 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/72021271@N05/), on Flickr

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1534/23694826203_9a3c5261a0_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/C6Qbjg)
Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/C6Qbjg) by Hali87 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/72021271@N05/), on Flickr

[ILoveHalifax]

Great respect for your picture taking, Hali. Thank you for posting

[teddifax]

I really like the pattern the glass seems to be taking!

[Hali87]

Great respect for your picture taking, Hali. Thank you for posting

:tup:

[Hali87]

I really like the pattern the glass seems to be taking!

There's a part of me that worries this would have been too tacky, but there's another part that wishes it had been in a blue-and-yellow pattern, rather than blue-and-green (NS Tartan, Halifax flag, etc...)

I agree it looks nice as-is, though.

[portapetey]

There's a part of me that worries this would have been too tacky, but there's another part that wishes it had been in a blue-and-yellow pattern, rather than blue-and-green (NS Tartan, Halifax flag, etc...)

I agree it looks nice as-is, though.

Hey, plaid is in again!

[RangerNS]

http://i.imgur.com/uoch4B0.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/mvaamSO.jpg

[Hali87]

https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1478/23716452594_d336e0e471_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/C8K265)
Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/C8K265) by Hali87 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/72021271@N05/), on Flickr

[Jonovision]

The owner/operator of the Carelton is now asking for donations to help fund his business because of the construction.

http://www.thecoast.ca/TheScene/archives/2016/01/13/the-carleton-music-bar-and-grill-needs-your-help

Seems a bit far fetched to me. If your business is not doing well, change, adapt, don't ask for handouts...

[OldDartmouthMark]

The owner/operator of the Carelton is now asking for donations to help fund his business because of the construction.

http://www.thecoast.ca/TheScene/archives/2016/01/13/the-carleton-music-bar-and-grill-needs-your-help

Seems a bit far fetched to me. If your business is not doing well, change, adapt, don't ask for handouts...

I dunno, I think the Carleton is a great music venue and I attend regularly. I'm not in a position to say whether construction plays a part in the business, but construction has caused a mess there for a long time. I can't imagine the shadows from the behemoth have done any favours for their outdoor patio (which isn't a concern this time of year, though).

Personally I wouldn't want to see it go away, so I'm alright with whatever it takes to keep it going.

If I compare the bar scene now to what it was several years ago, I think people for some reason don't care about live music much anymore. Anytime I go to a bar and there's a band, nobody pays attention to the band much (except the Carleton, which is set up like a "listening room"). Back then, there were several venues that brought in "name" acts and they were very well attended. Now it's down to a few local bar bands at the regular spots, and venues like The Carleton and Marquee to bring in touring acts, and that's about it.

The business situation could be as much about the clientele in Halifax as construction. However, some feel that once the Nova Centre is completed, Argyle Street will flourish with business from entertainment-seeking conference-goers, so hopefully this will help the place survive if it gets over the hump.

I've seen many bands at The Carleton who's music has slipped into regular rotation on my sound system. I would not have known about them without Mike Campbell and The Carleton... so I don't feel inclined to criticize, only to hope he makes it through the Nova Centre construction...

[Colin May]

The owner/operator of the Carelton is now asking for donations to help fund his business because of the construction.

http://www.thecoast.ca/TheScene/archives/2016/01/13/the-carleton-music-bar-and-grill-needs-your-help

Seems a bit far fetched to me. If your business is not doing well, change, adapt, don't ask for handouts...
A flippant comment which deliberately ignores the situation.

[RangerNS]

Its also possible that the Careleton employing bouncers that chase people onto the street and hold them hostage might be a problem.

[Drybrain]

If I compare the bar scene now to what it was several years ago, I think people for some reason don't care about live music much anymore. Anytime I go to a bar and there's a band, nobody pays attention to the band much (except the Carleton, which is set up like a "listening room"). Back then, there were several venues that brought in "name" acts and they were very well attended. Now it's down to a few local bar bands at the regular spots, and venues like The Carleton and Marquee to bring in touring acts, and that's about it.



The live-music biz always seems to go through peaks and troughs. Anywhere I've lived, there are periodic die-offs of venues as people choose other nightlife options, but within a few years, live shows seem to come back into favour. Maybe we're in a trough right now.

I imagine the contraction is having some effect. As a patio-goer, the lack of sun on Argyle doesn't bother me at all, but I did avoid the street this summer due to the jack-hammering and dust and all that. So maybe the summer was rough.

Anyway, I feel as if Campbell may be blaming the construction for other problems, but regardless, the Carleton is a great place and I hope they stick around for a long time to come. A somewhat upscale live-music joint is frankly exactly what could thrive on a post-Nova Centre Argyle.

[Hali87]

A lot of the "name" live acts I've seen in the last few years have actually been at the Forum, the Dal SUB/Arts Centre, the Cunard Centre, Reflections and the Marquee/Seahorse. The Olympic Centre also seems to host pretty often, as does Alderney Landing (in the summer). The Company House tends to get a lot of smaller acts (but ones that might be "big" if you're into the indie/folk/live music scene), along with, of course, the Carleton.