[jlousa]

They had a photo blimp onsite today taking view photos. Looks like Oxford will begin heavy marketing for the office space shortly. Think this one might just go ahead of the Bentall proposal at this pace.

[Mininari]

:previous:
Great!
And why not? They can offer high-quality, spectacular views, and suites as high as a 36th floor.

The stubby popcorn box can't really compete... except maybe in that its floorplates are bigger.

[Dylan Leblanc]

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f58/hirtus1/P1020093.jpg

All pics by Built Form

Here's some more pics of the model for your enjoyment.

Awesome thanks for getting these man!

[trofirhen]

:previous::previous::previous::previous::previous::previous::previous::previous::previous::previous::previous::previous::previous::previous::previous::previous::previous:
When construction time comes along, I think this one will grab a lot of attention, and be a very active thread !! :rolleyes:

[LeftCoaster]

Hope this one goes forward, the location is much better than Bentall's proposal, but the building is much less attractive than the large floorplate offering from Bentall. If I was a large anchor tenant I would likely be looking to lease with Bentall as opposed to Oxford, but Vancouver has interesting siezed tenants and Oxford might be able to put together a tenant list not as put off by the less functional building.

Also I'm hoping for some increased height, not from floors as that is very unlikely at this point, but from an exagerated crown. I would be surprised if it actually happens, but the UDP reccomendation has me thinking that this is one of the few buildings where an attractive crown is a definite poissibility. View cones in this city often leave us with buidings building their functional space right up to the allowable height, leaving us with boring roofs and pinnacles, but the unique circumstances in this project, with tiny floorplate office space might finally allow for a building with a sizable and architecturally interesting crown.

[dleung]

A 100'+ crown like the London Shard would be nice :)

[trofirhen]

A 100'+ crown like the London Shard would be nice :)
:rolleyes:
Indeed it would!! The London Shard is magnificent. However, such an "icy peak," though dramatic, MIGHT be a bit excessive for Vancouver. Then again, maybe not. We are a smaller city, and though London (or Europe) has never seen anything like it, it seems it might be a bit overstated for Vancouver. I'ts just that "point" you seem to wish to see, I know, and not the entire building form! I can certainly dig it, but is that the right height or location? I can see a supertall on the Burrard Building site. That might be a better place for such. Maybe not, though. People can discuss it.

[dleung]

The current crown is 40 feet. Increasing the building height by 60 feet will make it barely as tall as those fugly proposals at Burrard. For a city with so many natural icy peaks, Vancouver has next to none in terms of architectural gestures.

[dleung]

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f58/hirtus1/P1020098.jpg
All pics by Built Form

Here's some more pics of the model for your enjoyment.

I prefer my version:
http://img861.imageshack.us/img861/8434/p10200981.jpg

[LeftCoaster]

^ Looks better I agree, but that's a lot of lost leasable area...

[dleung]

It could be as simple as having a low-key/transparent curtain wall set back a couple metres from the facade. Better yet, they fill that space underneath with a 3-level garden. They can bump the lost square footage to an additional floor :)

[trofirhen]

The current crown is 40 feet. Increasing the building height by 60 feet will make it barely as tall as those fugly proposals at Burrard. For a city with so many natural icy peaks, Vancouver has next to none in terms of architectural gestures.

Thank you. Could yout tell me what those "fugly":haha: proposals for Burrard are like. Never seen one. If you have access to a render, maybe post it on another thread? Or start a new one? Might be interesting for people to look at and discuss: even for just a short while. Thank you. (I'm as curious as hell, in fact :rolleyes:)

[LeftCoaster]

^He's talking about Burrard gateway, you made an entire thread to discuss the asthetics of the project...

[trofirhen]

^He's talking about Burrard gateway, you made an entire thread to discuss the asthetics of the project...
:previous::previous::previous::previous::previous::previous::previous::previous:
:koko: Duuuuuh! Whoops, sorry. I was thinking of the Burrard Building site, which I believe has been designated as a "tall" site.
(gotta admit though, the Burrard Gateway desingn is ... icky ... in its own way!

[jlousa]

So you created a new thread for a project which no one envisions happening for at least 20yrs???? Wow.

[trofirhen]

So you created a new thread for a project which no one envisions happening for at least 20yrs???? Wow.
:previous:
Didn't know it was so far in the future, so it looks as if I goofed. Excuse me.
Oh well, as Mrs. Goldwitz said to her neighbour whose son had the flu: "give him some chicken soup ... it wouldn't hoit"

[navazan]

So you created a new thread for a project which no one envisions happening for at least 20yrs???? Wow.

i can just see mr. J sitting on a throne belittling the commoners with his ego boosting statements... :whip::worship:

[SFUVancouver]

This project goes before the Development Permit Board this afternoon.

Note to moderators; could the thread be renamed 1075 West Hastings? That is the official address for the project. I'm also loath to point out that the building height is 143 metres (469.2 feet), not 145.

Source (page 5): http://vancouver.ca/commsvcs/planning/dpboard/2011/PDFs/1075%20West%20Hastings%20Street%20-%20DE414163.pdf

[Hed Kandi]

This project goes before the Development Permit Board this afternoon.

Note to moderators; could the thread be renamed 1075 West Hastings? That is the official address for the project. I'm also loath to point out that the building height is 143 metres (469.2 feet), not 145.

Source (page 5): http://vancouver.ca/commsvcs/planning/dpboard/2011/PDFs/1075%20West%20Hastings%20Street%20-%20DE414163.pdf


Will the developer not seek greater height as recommended by the UDP?

[SFUVancouver]

The project is already right up against the maximum 12.1 FSR zoned density cap for the site, which includes the existing Guinness Tower. If the tower were to go higher it would mean shrinking the floor plates and that could lead to this already narrow office tower being difficult to lease, plus extra height could lower the efficiency of each floor as the required additional width for the columns adds up. The other option would be for the developer, Oxford Properties, to seek a rezoning for the site and pursue increased height. That would delay the project by likely close to a year and also subject them to the more stringent LEED Gold certification requirements, though the tower is pursing that level. There is also the view cone to consider. The current height and shape limit the project's intrusion into the view cone to a fraction of a percentage point and is being allowed. However a taller building would intrude more and lead to a more complicated rezoning process. So in balance the developer probably considered all of these options, and though they would likely have loved to have gone taller, they came to a decision that they would be happy with what they could build outright with their existing zoning.

[wrenegade]

This project goes before the Development Permit Board this afternoon.

Note to moderators; could the thread be renamed 1075 West Hastings? That is the official address for the project.

Interestingly Oxford themselves refer to the project as 1021 W Hastings a number of times in the Executive Summary of the application. Oh well.

[officedweller]

Is thw 1075 reference because the density is being treated as an addition to the Guiness Tower?

[dleung]

The project is already right up against the maximum 12.1 FSR zoned density cap for the site, which includes the existing Guinness Tower. If the tower were to go higher it would mean shrinking the floor plates and that could lead to this already narrow office tower being difficult to lease, plus extra height could lower the efficiency of each floor as the required additional width for the columns adds up. The other option would be for the developer, Oxford Properties, to seek a rezoning for the site and pursue increased height. That would delay the project by likely close to a year and also subject them to the more stringent LEED Gold certification requirements, though the tower is pursing that level. There is also the view cone to consider. The current height and shape limit the project's intrusion into the view cone to a fraction of a percentage point and is being allowed. However a taller building would intrude more and lead to a more complicated rezoning process. So in balance the developer probably considered all of these options, and though they would likely have loved to have gone taller, they came to a decision that they would be happy with what they could build outright with their existing zoning.

I thought the reason why the project was encouraged to go higher was because it wasn't projecting into any view cones...

[Canadian Mind]

I thought the reason why the project was encouraged to go higher was because it wasn't projecting into any view cones...

Yea, the viewcone is around the 165M mark...

[SFUVancouver]

The project was approved by the Development Permit Board today.

[LeftCoaster]

Fantastic... now the hard part, finding a tenant.

[SFUVancouver]

The guy from Oxford intimated that they had some good solid leads and that high environmental building performance, read LEED Gold as a minimum, was what their prospective tenants, including government, require.

I asked about building signage as a way to gauge whether they had an anchor tenant and they said that they would pursue that separate approvals process for marquee rooftop signage if they were to secure a client that required it as a condition of their lease. I also asked about lighting and it sounds as if the crown will be internally lit 'like a lantern', which I see is still the term d'jour for internal architectural lighting of a tower's crown.

3,000th post, by the way.

[squeezied]

^Awesome news! And congrats on the 3000th post!

[Coldrsx]

I cannot see a tenant being an issue given its goals, location, and proximity to everything. I am curious to see though how Oxford markets this.

[trofirhen]

Now that it has been given the green light, it's countdown time till actual construction begins. However, I do not know what colour / finish exactly Oxford has in mind. It's portrayed seemingly as a light olive green.

Does anybody know the colour and material? Green reflective glass? Green brick? Stainless steel? What?

[3D Ninja]

The old design had the same glass as Shangri-La, with alternating mullion caps of aluminum like the guinness tower and stone like the marine. Not sure if this is still in this iteration though.

[officedweller]

One problem that could arise for larger tenants is the small floorplate - I remember that we would have required 6 floors in PWC Place versus 3.5 floors (now 4) in TD Tower (i.e.splits up operations a bit)

*********

The discussion in the Staff Report (Appendix H) on view cones and view shadows is interesting.
This tower was allowed to break the 418 ft view cone because it lies behind the view shadow of 1033 Marinaside (which was allowed to be too tall). It was also allowed to intrude into the QE view cone because it met higher buildings policy standrads, even though it's not a higher buidlings project. So there seems to be some loosening of the reins at City Hall.

http://vancouver.ca/commsvcs/planning/dpboard/2011/PDFs/1075%20West%20Hastings%20Street%20-%20DE414163.pdf

So what other sites lie within view shadows?
(i.e. what development sites lies behind the biggest view cone intruder (Scotia Tower)?

[Some guy]

What happened. . . I thought construction was a go for this one?

[Metro-One]

:previous:You should no better, this is an office tower proposal in Vancouver.

We will see renders, pass zoning, and then we will never hear about it again!

[jlousa]

Umm not sure what you guys are expecting, these things take time. There wasn't even zoning on this project it's prezoned, just a straight development permit. They've been doing site surveying just last week. This one is going ahead in due process.

[trofirhen]

:previous:You should no better, this is an office tower proposal in Vancouver.

We will see renders, pass zoning, and then we will never hear about it again!
:previous:
EXACTLY what I was thinking ... then I came upon your post, Metro!! Pathetic is the word for that syndrome.

[Delirium]

^ syndrome? it's called basic supply and demand. developers don't build office towers just for the fun of it. if they can't secure a lead tenant, they're not putting a shovel in the ground. why is that so hard to understand?

[dreambrother808]

Thanks for the sane, rational explanation, Jlousa.

[trofirhen]

^ syndrome? it's called basic supply and demand. developers don't build office towers just for the fun of it. if they can't secure a lead tenant, they're not putting a shovel in the ground. why is that so hard to understand?
:previous:
No, of course, supply and demand is elemental. It's things like the Turn (Erickson's creation) that seem to fizzle out, that lead to this. Factually, you are absolutely right ... but they seem to do things in Vancouver in a particular way .........

[SpongeG]

what way is that?

[trofirhen]

what way is that?
:previous:
... difficult to be precise, Sponge, but provincial, dreamy, here-today gone-tomorrow type of thing ... or so it seems. Maybe not.

[huenthar]

The "all talk no walk" way :D

[trofirhen]

The "all talk no walk" way :D
:previous:
You got it in a nutshell, huenthar ! !:tup:

[SpongeG]

well they have to peak interest out there by talking about it before it can happen or it will never happen

[wrenegade]

Just like a residential building has to pre-sell condos to get construction financing, an office building has to pre-lease space in order to get going. This is the 3rd approved office building in the city (after the GM Place/Rogers Arena tower and Bentall 6), if building office buildings were easy, both of these would already be under construction. This isn't Calgary in an oil boom. You can't just build an office building on spec (EAP) and hope for the best. It's an achievement for Vancouver to have all these towers (plus Telus Garden) proposed, let alone approved or under construction. Be patient, they will happen.

[trofirhen]

Just like a residential building has to pre-sell condos to get construction financing, an office building has to pre-lease space in order to get going. This is the 3rd approved office building in the city (after the GM Place/Rogers Arena tower and Bentall 6), if building office buildings were easy, both of these would already be under construction. This isn't Calgary in an oil boom. You can't just build an office building on spec (EAP) and hope for the best. It's an achievement for Vancouver to have all these towers (plus Telus Garden) proposed, let alone approve or under construction. Be patient, they will happen.
:previous:
Enlightening and logical. Thanks for that piece of good perspective, AWVAN. :yes:

[Mininari]

:previous:You should no better, this is an office tower proposal in Vancouver.

We will see renders, pass zoning, and then we will never hear about it again!

So funny; yet so true.
Lets not forget the long drawn out process Bentall 5 was... even when they did finally get started, they only built half of it! (vertical phasing). At least it only took a few years to get the next phase leased.

[Sprawl]

This is such an un-Vancouver design, it would be a real shame for it to be shelved. That said, there's really no reason to assume that's occurred.


:previous:
... difficult to be precise, Sponge, but provincial, dreamy, here-today gone-tomorrow type of thing ... or so it seems. Maybe not.http://i613.photobucket.com/albums/tt218/darthnull/Emoticons/digging.gif

[trofirhen]

This is such an un-Vancouver design, it would be a real shame for it to be shelved. That said, there's really no reason to assume that's occurred.


http://i613.photobucket.com/albums/tt218/darthnull/Emoticons/digging.gif

What does that digging image imply?

[Some guy]

:previous: Was wondering the same thing. . . . . :hmmm:

[LeftCoaster]

Things with this project seem to be humming along quite nicely. Just heard this could get started as early as late summer/early fall, but of course this is all contingent on leasing. Oxford seems very intent on getting this tower going as soon as possible though and may already have a prospective tenant lined up.

[s211]

Things with this project seem to be humming along quite nicely. Just heard this could get started as early as late summer/early fall, but of course this is all contingent on leasing. Oxford seems very intent on getting this tower going as soon as possible though and may already have a prospective tenant lined up.

If anything, Oxford will go on spec, or not at all. No way are they going to find a large anchor tenant that wants to split its business up into multiple micro floorplates. It's too inefficient.

[LeftCoaster]

There is no way Oxford builds this on spec. Oxford a very conservative pension owned developer and has absolutely no incentive to build this or any tower on spec for that matter. Large spec buildings are risky in the best of markets and only are really viable in hot markets with high absorbtion rates like Calgary or Toronto.

Oxford may not necessarily be courting one tenant, but two or three midsized anchors, we'll see how it all plays out.

[s211]

There is no way Oxford builds this on spec. Oxford a very conservative pension owned developer and has absolutely no incentive to build this or any tower on spec for that matter. Large spec buildings are risky in the best of markets and only are really viable in hot markets with high absorbtion rates like Calgary or Toronto.

Oxford may not necessarily be courting one tenant, but two or three midsized anchors, we'll see how it all plays out.

I've heard more than one Oxford staffer say that says spec is a real possibility.

[Metro-One]

Fingers crossed! This tower along with Vancouver's Turn (which I am guessing is dead by now) are the two towers i want to see be built the most of all the current proposals in Vancouver.

Would be amazing if this tower, and Telus, were under construction at the same time. Could you imagine that? Two office towers being built simultaneously in Vancouver?

[giallo]

^That'd be really nice.

Any word on the height increase recommended by the city? Are they going to add a few metres to the crown or add a floor or two?

[jlousa]

The city didn't recommend extra height, that was the udp which is an independant advisory panel. It's doubtful that Oxford will look at any extra height though as it would require rezoning which would add months if not years to the application, not to mention a complete rework of the exisiting plans, all for an additional couple of floors or so.

[Prometheus]

Fingers crossed! This tower along with Vancouver's Turn (which I am guessing is dead by now) are the two towers i want to see be built the most of all the current proposals in Vancouver.

I recall someone posting an excerpt from one of Rennie's newsletters from about a year ago which said we should watch for movement on Vancouver's Turn in the fall of 2011. Does anyone else remember that?

Also, about a year ago in the Vancouver's Turn thread, someone claimed to have a friend in the office of the Development Permit Board who said that the DPB had received an application for the building.

Regardless of whether any of the above is valid, I can't imagine that this project is truly dead. The lot has been cleared and excavated; an iconic design by Canada's most famous architect has been approved by the UDP; extra height was granted by the city. There are no further hurdles to this building and, when favourable market conditions present themselves, I can see no reason why it wouldn't be built.

But what do I know?

[giallo]

^^Ah ok. Thanks for clarifying.

[osirisboy]

agreed. Surely it cant be just dead. lol

[Hourglass]

:previous:

just pre-market Vancouver's Turn to Mainland Chinese investors and voila! :runaway:

[trofirhen]

:previous::previous::previous::previous::previous::previous::previous::previous::previous:
Hey ... there's an idea!

[LeftCoaster]

I've heard more than one Oxford staffer say that says spec is a real possibility.

Wow, well I'm still highly sceptical but if it's from the horses mouth perhaps they know something I dont.

Either way I see this project moving ahead very shortly.

[jlousa]

From what I've been hearing work could start as soon as Sept. I'm not convinced it will, but there is definitely talk and I'm sure we will see this one start before most if not all of the office projects. Interesting the city has removed the development application plans for this project, which is an usual step.

Please keep talk about Vancouver's Turn in it's own thread, so we can keep this thread on track, thanks

[s211]

:previous:

just pre-market Vancouver's Turn to Mainland Chinese investors and voila! :runaway:

You mean like how projects like 888 Beach, 1500 Alberni and Palais Georgia were?

[phesto]

I've heard more than one Oxford staffer say that says spec is a real possibility.

This is what I've heard as well, but I think with each passing day it becomes less likely.

The biggest advantage is that they can build it before any of the competing projects (including Telus which will have some competitive space for lease despite an inferior location), so the longer things drag on, the more likely they will be competing for tenants with other projects including potentially Bentall 6.

Although Oxford is currently one of the most aggressive pension fund managers in terms of office construction right now, they are not like a private developer and have to undertake extensive analysis and internal approval before they can build on spec. From what I've heard they need rents above $40.00 per sq ft for the project to be viable.

[s211]

This is what I've heard as well, but I think with each passing day it becomes less likely.

The biggest advantage is that they can build it before any of the competing projects (including Telus which will have some competitive space for lease despite an inferior location), so the longer things drag on, the more likely they will be competing for tenants with other projects including potentially Bentall 6.

Although Oxford is currently one of the most aggressive pension fund managers in terms of office construction right now, they are not like a private developer and have to undertake extensive analysis and internal approval before they can build on spec. From what I've heard they need rents above $40.00 per sq ft for the project to be viable.

Yup. Small plate is expensive.

[jlousa]

Article in today's Globe and Mail, seems to agree to what I'm hearing about a start later this year.

The Oxford tower will be built with a focus on sustainability, with energy-saving glass panels and a special heating and ventilation system popular in Japan but not widely adopted in North America a called ventilated refrigerant flow system, which doesn’t use ducts and allows for separate climate controls for different parts of a building.

Construction will begin this year, and is scheduled to finish in the summer of 2014.

Other developers considering building include Bentall Kennedy, which has proposed a 365,000 square foot building for 743 Thurlow Street. It hopes to begin construction in 2012, and finish work by early 2015.


http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/oxford-to-build-vancouver-tower/article2085635/

[Built Form]

Oxford Announces 35-Storey Downtown Vancouver Office Tower Development

1021 West Hastings: A Vision Statement

Jul 4, 2011 9:06:00 AM
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - July 4, 2011) -

Editors Note: There is a photo associated with this press release.

Oxford Properties Group today announced a new vision statement for Vancouver: the development of a 35-storey, 270,000 square foot office tower at 1021 West Hastings, the site of the historic University and Quadra Clubs. Designed by world renowned architects Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF), 1021 West Hastings will provide a striking crest that frames The Marine Building to the east and the Guinness Tower to the west. At ground level, 1021 West Hastings will retain the historic club facade, while a modern new entrance and landscaped public space will build a bridge between the new and the old.

"1021 West Hastings is a symbol of Oxford's commitment to Vancouver, its businesses and its people," said Blake Hutcheson, President and CEO, Oxford Properties. "This building will be iconic in its design, while setting new standards in efficiency, sustainability and tenant amenities. In our view, it is a statement about what work life can and should become in the 21st century!"

1021 West Hastings will complement Oxford's harbourfront portfolio, comprised of Guinness Tower, The Marine Building and Oceanic Plaza, all of which are virtually 100% leased today.

"Oxford is very excited to present 1021 and the response from the business community has been outstanding," said Chuck We, Director, Leasing, Oxford Properties. "We worked with our architects KPF to design a building specifically for the needs of the Vancouver market, and are excited about bringing a world class project to this dynamic market."

1021 will embody the values of sustainability while delivering measurable savings and tremendous improvements in comfort: It will be the first office tower with a VRF HVAC system, will have energy saving triple-paned glazing, and is targeted LEED Gold Core and Shell. The building is readily accessible by bike lanes, SkyTrain, West Coast Express and bus services, as well as by Helijet and seaplane. Within walking distance are a growing number of high quality dining, socializing and health experiences in an area anchored by the Vancouver Convention Centre-including the Fairmont Pacific Rim, Vancouver Club, and Terminal City Club. As part of the 1021 West Hastings building itself, there will be a new restaurant and fitness facility, as well as a host of other premium amenities.

"Oxford Properties sought to build a sustainable and commercially viable development that enhances the neighboring assets," said Paul Katz, President, KPF. "The building is therefore designed to respond to and improve both the human-scaled, urban experience and the spectacular climatic and geographic context. We also believe that increasing the density of the urban core will enhance Vancouver's deserved reputation as one of the most sustainable and habitable cities in the world."

1021 West Hastings will begin construction in Q3 2011 and is scheduled for practical completion in the summer of 2014 under the direction of lead contractor Ledcor.

The development of 1021 West Hastings is a joint venture between Oxford, who will oversee all aspects of the development and management of the property, and co-investor CPPIB.

http://www.alphatrade.com/news/stories/AM/2011-07-04/CCN/201107041006CCNMATHWCANADAPR_0710074001.html

[Built Form]

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f58/hirtus1/20110704-Vancouver800.jpg

http://www.alphatrade.com/news/stories/AM/2011-07-04/CCN/201107041006CCNMATHWCANADAPR_0710074001.html

[Mike K.]

Is the status of this tower still proposed, or can we call it approved?

If construction starts as early as hoped Oxford might beat Bentall to the punch. Bentall's tower is expected to complete in 2015, one year after 1021 W H.

[Hed Kandi]

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f58/hirtus1/20110704-Vancouver800.jpg

http://www.alphatrade.com/news/stories/AM/2011-07-04/CCN/201107041006CCNMATHWCANADAPR_0710074001.html

If this development goes through, it will be the finest tower to grace the city skyline since the completion of Bentall 5 and One Wall Centre.

[LeftCoaster]

Looks like some of my sources still know what they are talking about, good to see. Either that or The Globe is doing its researching on SSP...

Is the status of this tower still proposed, or can we call it approved?

If construction starts as early as hoped Oxford might beat Bentall to the punch. Bentall's tower is expected to complete in 2015, one year after 1021 W H.

Oxford will amost certainly beat Bentall to the punch, I'm not even sure Bentall will move ahead with their tower in 2012.

[s211]

Looks like some of my sources still know what they are talking about, good to see. Either that or The Globe is doing its researching on SSP...

Oxford will amost certainly beat Bentall to the punch, I'm not even sure Bentall will move ahead with their tower in 2012.

Colleague has confirmed with Oxford. Spec's a go.

Don't rule Bentall out yet....

[Mininari]

Colleague has confirmed with Oxford. Spec's a go.

Don't rule Bentall out yet....

I'm guessing that Spec for a tower thats situated on the waterfront and can offer stunning views will beat out the Bentall stub which really can't compete, with the exception of offering larger floorplates.

If this does start soon, it will be a fun tower to watch go up, and will take our minds off of the unfortunate "twist" that delayed Vancouver's second tallest from rising...

[Coldrsx]

Nighttime render, streets look like Terrazzo... @ murman.

[officedweller]

Great news!

Agreed that this will be the nicest in recent years.

[Canadian Mind]

Wish it was taller, but amazing news none the less.

[Dylan Leblanc]

The article says KPF is the architect. Is Musson Cattell Mackey Partnership out completely?

[jlousa]

Someone else here is probably better suited to answer that question, but I would imagine that MCM will remain the local architects on the job. It's not unusual to use a foreign architect firm and have them partner with a local firm.

[privatejet]

less surprised that it is going spec, with Canada Pension Plan being the co-investor. CPPIB is such a funny pension plan and has such a long-dated approach to assets that it has been a very aggressive investor in these type of projects. Here in London, they bailed out Westfield in the Stratford development and are/or about to do a number of other development plays.

[Prometheus]

The only disappointment with this tower is the height. Six or eight more floors, and this would have been quite a striking and elegant tower. It also would have pierced Vancouver's infernal table-top skyline. Instead it will be reinforcing it even further, as it will be the same height as Shaw and Fairmont Pacific Rim.

It's a beautiful idea not fully realized.

Yes, I am perfectly aware of the constraints (some economic, some purely bureaucratic) that block this building from fulfilling its architectural telos. It's a shame.

[hollywoodnorth]

I'm guessing that Spec for a tower thats situated on the waterfront and can offer stunning views will beat out the Bentall stub which really can't compete, with the exception of offering larger floorplates.

If this does start soon, it will be a fun tower to watch go up, and will take our minds off of the unfortunate "twist" that delayed Vancouver's second tallest from rising...

Bentall has location location location ..... across from the #1 hotel in the city .... half a block to Robson .... located RIGHT on the high fashion street of Alberni .... I think its a toss up

[hollywoodnorth]

Oxford Announces 35-Storey Downtown Vancouver Office Tower Development

1021 West Hastings: A Vision Statement

Jul 4, 2011 9:06:00 AM
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - July 4, 2011) -

Editors Note: There is a photo associated with this press release.

Oxford Properties Group today announced a new vision statement for Vancouver: the development of a 35-storey, 270,000 square foot office tower at 1021 West Hastings, the site of the historic University and Quadra Clubs. Designed by world renowned architects Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF), 1021 West Hastings will provide a striking crest that frames The Marine Building to the east and the Guinness Tower to the west. At ground level, 1021 West Hastings will retain the historic club facade, while a modern new entrance and landscaped public space will build a bridge between the new and the old.

"1021 West Hastings is a symbol of Oxford's commitment to Vancouver, its businesses and its people," said Blake Hutcheson, President and CEO, Oxford Properties. "This building will be iconic in its design, while setting new standards in efficiency, sustainability and tenant amenities. In our view, it is a statement about what work life can and should become in the 21st century!"

1021 West Hastings will complement Oxford's harbourfront portfolio, comprised of Guinness Tower, The Marine Building and Oceanic Plaza, all of which are virtually 100% leased today.

"Oxford is very excited to present 1021 and the response from the business community has been outstanding," said Chuck We, Director, Leasing, Oxford Properties. "We worked with our architects KPF to design a building specifically for the needs of the Vancouver market, and are excited about bringing a world class project to this dynamic market."

1021 will embody the values of sustainability while delivering measurable savings and tremendous improvements in comfort: It will be the first office tower with a VRF HVAC system, will have energy saving triple-paned glazing, and is targeted LEED Gold Core and Shell. The building is readily accessible by bike lanes, SkyTrain, West Coast Express and bus services, as well as by Helijet and seaplane. Within walking distance are a growing number of high quality dining, socializing and health experiences in an area anchored by the Vancouver Convention Centre-including the Fairmont Pacific Rim, Vancouver Club, and Terminal City Club. As part of the 1021 West Hastings building itself, there will be a new restaurant and fitness facility, as well as a host of other premium amenities.

"Oxford Properties sought to build a sustainable and commercially viable development that enhances the neighboring assets," said Paul Katz, President, KPF. "The building is therefore designed to respond to and improve both the human-scaled, urban experience and the spectacular climatic and geographic context. We also believe that increasing the density of the urban core will enhance Vancouver's deserved reputation as one of the most sustainable and habitable cities in the world."

1021 West Hastings will begin construction in Q3 2011 and is scheduled for practical completion in the summer of 2014 under the direction of lead contractor Ledcor.

The development of 1021 West Hastings is a joint venture between Oxford, who will oversee all aspects of the development and management of the property, and co-investor CPPIB.

http://www.alphatrade.com/news/stories/AM/2011-07-04/CCN/201107041006CCNMATHWCANADAPR_0710074001.html

Q3 - July, August, and September


so we should see this puppy in the ground within the next 60-80ish days ... that's incredible!

[Cypherus]

Good news. However, I'm not sure why this 35 story tower will need just under 3 years to build...:rolleyes:

[Canadian Mind]

This is pretty quick from first time we heard about it to start of construction. Even if it is stubby, it's still awesome!

[trofirhen]

This is pretty quick from first time we heard about it to start of construction. Even if it is stubby, it's still awesome!
:previous:
You're right, it IS stubby .... but still great to have in the pipeline. That district, with the Marine Building as a neighbour, is classy, and this is going to make it even classier. :tup:

[hollywoodnorth]

Good news. However, I'm not sure why this 35 story tower will need just under 3 years to build...:rolleyes:

when ever your dealing with Heritage Retention (think Jameson place) you deal with longer timelines.

[Canadian Mind]

when ever your dealing with Heritage Retention (think Jameson place) you deal with longer timelines.

How long was Jameson from start to finish? Felt like almost 10 years.

[giallo]

I like this tower. It definitely checks off every positive in my book; nice design, 35 floors of AAA office space, great location. It really is a perfect fit for downtown.

[Dylan Leblanc]

Someone else here is probably better suited to answer that question, but I would imagine that MCM will remain the local architects on the job. It's not unusual to use a foreign architect firm and have them partner with a local firm.

I remember MCM was the architect for the earlier design with six sides. I guess they could still be a part of the project as the local guys.

[jlousa]

Just checked and yes both MCM and KPF will be working on this project, that's all I know right now though.

[LeftCoaster]

Also spoke to a couple people here and they have confirmed that indeed Oxford might move ahead with this one on spec. Apparently they really want to be the first online space and are willing to up their risk to ensure they are.

Normally I hate to be wrong but this time I'm quite pleased.

It's also quite a vote of confidence in the Vancouver market, spec is incredibly risky.

[Mininari]

Also spoke to a couple people here and they have confirmed that indeed Oxford might move ahead with this one on spec. Apparently they really want to be the first online space and are willing to up their risk to ensure they are.

Normally I hate to be wrong but this time I'm quite pleased.

It's also quite a vote of confidence in the Vancouver market, spec is incredibly risky.

Might as well go for it on Spec.
Construction isn't getting any cheaper; project financing won't be getting any cheaper; materials and labour continue to go nowhere but up.

[VancouverPM]

Might as well go for it on Spec.
Construction isn't getting any cheaper; project financing won't be getting any cheaper; materials and labour continue to go nowhere but up.

Labour is at a low that is ridiculous to even turn a profit right now, a lot of the highrises and multi-story formwork projects going out right now are going for between $5.50 sq ft to $8.50 sq ft, compared to during the boom where similar projects were going for $14 sq ft and up...and prices on labour have only gone done in recent months, they haven't really started climbing anywhere yet. Materials costs haven't really budged much recently either, so I'm sure that isn't a huge point of concern for them at this point. Granted it will eventually climb,but I don't forsee the way the market is currently sitting that they will see their labour costs skyrocket too quickly...

[queetz@home]

The article says KPF is the architect. Is Musson Cattell Mackey Partnership out completely?

Lovely...KPF is one of my favourite architectural firms. They designed the two most stunning buildings in Makati City. I guess this will be the first Vancouver office tower project that I'm gonna be obsessed about since Bentall V (since B-5's completion is why I became less active here... :P )

[Metro-One]

Also spoke to a couple people here and they have confirmed that indeed Oxford might move ahead with this one on spec. Apparently they really want to be the first online space and are willing to up their risk to ensure they are.

Normally I hate to be wrong but this time I'm quite pleased.

It's also quite a vote of confidence in the Vancouver market, spec is incredibly risky.

This honestly seems like a good move IMO, the mining industry is expected to grow substantially over the next few years in BC, and we all know how large of a mining hub Vancouver is, for goodness sake even I now work full time for a mining firm (one that currently is starting to find their current office space too cramped), as do many people I know.

That, coupled with the current lower prices in construction labour, and the fact they will be the first complete office tower of several current proposals, makes now seems like the time to do it!.

[Dylan Leblanc]

Just checked and yes both MCM and KPF will be working on this project, that's all I know right now though.

Thanks! I've updated the database page.

[Built Form]

Oxford had their swanky launch yesterday afternoon. What can I say the building is GORGEOUS!!! Go to the website www.1021westhastings.com and get ready to drool especially with the fly through rendering www.oxfordproperties.com/docs/wv/1021Webvid

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f58/hirtus1/P1030407.jpg
pic by Built Form

The following pics from www.1021westhastings.com
http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f58/hirtus1/renderings-05.jpg

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f58/hirtus1/310maxx.jpg

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f58/hirtus1/building-03.jpg

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f58/hirtus1/building-04.jpg

[Prometheus]

http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f58/hirtus1/310maxx.jpg


It sure would have been a magnificent addition to the skyline (as well as an aesthetic improvement to the building itself) if Hastings was to soar ten floors above Shaw and Fairmont Pacific Rim instead of just reinforcing Vancouver's truncated table-top even further.

Too bad.