Vancouver's Alberni Street has been going through a wave of development and densification. As demolition is taking place for the distinctive Alberni by Kengo Kuma, the City of Vancouver has received an application by LANDA Global Properties and Asia Standard Americas to rezone 1444 Alberni Street and 740 Nicola Street. The proposed CD 1 zoning will allow an increase in density from a floor space ratio of 6 to 15, and includes a mix of uses, with market and rental housing, a daycare, and a public park all part of the plan. The development includes a design by Robert A.M. Stern Architects and Musson Cattell Mackey Partnership, with landscape design by PFS Studio.

1444 Alberni, image via Landa Global Properties

The site is currently occupied by a mixed-use building containing market rental apartments and offices. The new development will include two towers, an east tower at 134.7 metres tall, and a west tower at 123.5 metres tall, with a shared, multi-storey podium joining the pair. In addition to the buildings, the project proposes the closure of Nicola Street between Alberni Street and the lane, to create a new public park. The podium will contain 129 market rental units to replace the existing homes, with a mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom units. The daycare will be located on level seven, with an outdoor playground on the roof of the podium. The two towers will contain one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom salable units.  

Buildings currently at 1444 Alberni, image by Alissa Reed

The development's design is inspired by the local landmarks of the early 20th century — like Hotel Vancouver, the Marine Building, and Vancouver Block — notably different from the Vancouverism style of glass towers. This design, with its pinch and significant insulation levels, will enable the project to become the tallest Passive House development in the world.

The development will be served by a six-level underground parking garage, with spaces for 484 cars and 562 bicycles. It is also within a short walk of two bus routes, multiple shopping and recreation opportunities, Coal Harbour, Stanley Park and the West End Community Centre. The public realm will be improved with landscaping along all frontages, and a laneway upgrade with a pedestrian walkway, landscaping and seating.

Public realm, image via City of Vancouver

A community open house was held from 5 to 8 pm on Tuesday, November 7, 2017 at the Listel Hotel Impressionist Gallery, with the applicant team and City staff available to answer questions. You can provide comments on this rezoning application by filling out the online feedback form.

Scale model at the open house, image by Alissa Reed

Additional information and images can be found in the Database file linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion? Check out the associated Forum thread, or leave a comment in the field provided at the bottom of this page.