In November 2016, the City of Vancouver received a rezoning application for 95 West Hastings Street to build a ten-storey, mixed-use building, and since then, the project has been making its way through the planning process. Developed by Holborn Holdings and designed by Gair Williamson Architects, the 32-meter-tall project would provide 132 units of secured market rental housing units, with retail on the ground floor, and will replace a surface parking lot.

95 West Hastings, image via City of Vancouver

The building is designed to integrate with historic buildings to the east, Gastown to the north, as well as the Woodwards building to the west, with Victory Square Guidelines in mind. The Green Buildings Policy for Rezonings requires this building meet or exceed LEED Gold sustainability standards or an equivalent. The residences will consist of studio, one- and two-bedroom units. The building will have 84 underground vehicle parking spaces, and 167 bicycle parking spaces.

Amenities will include an exercise studio, a workshop, and a communal rooftop deck with a kitchen area, plants, and a hot tub. The historic mural on the Paris Block will be showcased by lighting from the east wall. The streetscape will be improved by public art, the presence of ground-level retail, and a patio. The building apex will also feature a water-retaining green roof system.

Mural on the Paris Block, image by Alissa Reed

On February 8, 2017, Urban Design Panel members recommended the following improvements:

  • Higher-quality, durable materials to be used at and near grade;  
  • Variations in colours;  
  • Family units should be considered in terms of liveability, size, and window placement, and there should be more definition of the play space on the roof;  
  • Consideration should be given to potential impacts and development on the orphaned site adjacent to the project, including parking access.

95 West Hastings, image via City of Vancouver

We'll continue to follow the project's movement through the approvals process. Additional images and information can be found in the Database file linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion or share your photos? Check out the associated Forum thread or leave a comment in the field provided at the bottom of this page.