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When we last paid a visit to Tate Downtown in Vancouver, construction on the upcoming 40-storey tower was just reaching grade. In the months that followed, there has been considerable progress, with the yet-to-be-clad concrete structure having risen approximately nine storeys above Howe Street. In doing so, the architectural geometry of the development is starting to reveal itself, giving passersby a glimpse of what to expect when the building is delivered in 2018.
The 333-unit project by Bonds Group of Companies sports a design by Merrick Architecture that morphs its shape to optimize views of the city. A 12-foot water wall adjacent to the porte-cochère establishes a grand sense of arrival. For easy access, Tate Downtown's amenity spaces are located on the main floor, where residents can enjoy a fireside lounge, library, billiards room, 12-seat theatre, and conference facility. Additional amenities on the fourth and fifth floors include a 2,100-square-foot fitness centre, a social and dining room, and a 5,200-square-foot garden.
But unlike most highrise residences, the building won't exclusively be the domain of its homeowners. The provision of 16 working artists' studios will help embed the development into the cultural consciousness of the Downtown South neighbourhood, which is quickly becoming an arts hub for Vancouver. The four-storey open concept space called High Street of the Arts will be large enough to host oversized art installations.
Another notable achievement by the development relates to its environmental credentials. Tate Downtown will become one of the first downtown projects to meet a 2011-approved policy that mandates all new development on rezoned sites attain at least LEED Gold status. As the building's features are extolled at its nearby sales centre, construction at the site has been swift. Sharp corners and curved floor plates are beginning to take shape and will soon be enhanced by a complete clothing of glass. The best is yet to come for Tate Downtown, so we'll keep track of the development as it continues its skyward climb.
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