While work continues at Boffo Development's The Smithe in downtown Vancouver, GBL Architects has released a fresh set of renderings, thereby providing a closer look at how the finished product will appear. While the overall configuration and aesthetic quality of the exterior appear to be the same as before, it seems as though the colour scheme has darkened a shade, there now being a broader contrast between the light and dark tones.  

The Smithe, updated rendering, image via GBL ArchitectsThe Smithe, updated rendering, image via GBL Architects

The 27-storey, 94-unit, residential high-rise will sit atop a five-storey podium base, which will house the development's 4,000 square-foot amenity deck, three floors of commercial space, and a ground-level retail component. The fifth floor amenity deck will include a large outdoor terrace, to be populated by a generous canopy of potted trees. 

The Smithe, detailed podium view, image via GBL ArchitectsThe Smithe, detailed podium view, image via GBL Architects

Trees, it seems, will be something of a theme here, the latest renderings highlighting a veritable forest of new trees set to sprout up around the base of the tower in addition to those to be found above the podium. Earlier renderings also suggest trees at the top of the tower, the building as a whole to be a very green endeavour.

The Smithe, rooftop terrace with trees, image via GBL ArchitectsThe Smithe, rooftop terrace with trees, image via GBL Architects

Having replaced an old warehouse, several of the beams will be salvaged and reincorporated into the podium, thus helping to ingratiate this modern development into its surroundings. Located at the corner of Smithe and Cambie Streets, in the heart of Yaletown, The Smithe will soon become home to upwards of 150-200 new residents upon its scheduled 2020 completion date.  

SkyriseCities will be sure to return to this project as progress continues. For more information, check out the associated Database file and Forum thread, and as always, feel free to join the conversation in the comments section below.