Five months since our last update, and progress at the Freemasons-inspired The Beverley is now nearing completion in New Westminster. With the new 19-storey, 150-unit, rental tower now largely wrapped up, attention has shifted to the finishing touches upon the century-old facade of the former Freemasons Hall that continues to occupy the site. 

The Beverley, heritage and new build together, image by Forum contributor City of Rain

Built over top of an historic and culturally significant local landmark - The Freemasons Hall - The Beverley has been designed by Perkins + Will with several aesthetic and geometric cues borrowed from the attached heritage component. Mathematical equations and special meridians, etc have been taken into consideration, which on the whole will more than likely add up to an an extra sense of architectural cohesion than with other similar adaptive re-use and heritage expansion and conversion projects. 

The Beverley, heritage restoration underway, image by Forum contributor City of Rain

As viewed above, the ongoing restoration work has been highly meticulous, with the stone lentils and glass panes now cleaned and restored to their former glory. Re-pointing and cleaning work has also been conducted across the majority of the facade, save for some key detailing towards the top of the original structure. 

The Beverley, urban context view, image by Forum contributor City of Rain

Situated at 508 Agnes Street in New Westminster, close to the Columbia SkyTrain station, and within walking distance of the city centre, The Beverley will be a prime address for those looking for a nice balance of urban living with a small town feel. Close as well to the waterfront, Tipperary Park, Westminster Pier Park, and the shops, restaurants, and pubs that populate the historic core, The Beverley will make an excellent home for its upwards of 200-250 residents.  

SkyriseVancouver 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.