PROJECT HISTORY
The challenge
Vancouver needed an iconic structure to welcome residents and visitors to the core as they come across the historic Burrard Bridge.
An iconic addition to Vancouver’s skyline
One Burrard Place
The solution
One Burrard Place is part of a three-building, mixed-use complex that is distinguished by its modern design and top-tier amenities.
The impact
Our design demonstrates architectural excellence and significant environmental standards.
443
residential units
47,000 sq ft
of premium amenities
The challenge
Cities such as New York and San Francisco stand out because of their iconic skylines that welcome residents and visitors alike. As residents travel over the Burrard Street Bridge into Downtown Vancouver, the skyline previously lacked a tower with visual prominence reflective of the city’s thriving center. In response, Arcadis, previously Arcadis IBI Group, was contracted to design one of the three buildings that create a recognizable gateway into urban living, just as the north shore mountains are the gateway into outdoor adventure.
The solution
To create the gateway into Vancouver’s downtown core from the Burrard Street bridge, Arcadis designed a tower impossible to miss. Standing 54 stories tall, Tower A is one of Vancouver’s tallest high-rise towers and serves as a striking addition to Vancouver’s skyline. The design for the LEED Gold building allows residents to soak in the sweeping panoramic marina and mountain views. Representing integrated urban living, residents can interact in the ground floor café, restaurant and retail store, work in the adjacent office building, and enjoy their downtime in the generous amenity spaces and rooftop garden.
Tower B, The Offices at Burrard Place, anchors the development to the active corner of Burrard and Drake Street. The project was designed by Revery Architecture from concept design up to development permit. Arcadis continued working on design development and submitted the development permit, executing the project through working drawing and construction phase to completion. The design is anchored by a cylindrical volume at the plaza level that unfolds into a fluid glass wall above. Three spiral-shaped elements revolve down the west façade marking the office entrance on Burrard Street. Around the corner on Drake Street, a tapering glass wall accentuates the vertical dimension of the tower giving it a sculptural and slim profile. For privacy and comfort, the glass skin of the entire building is articulated through the orchestrated placement of opaque, fritted and vision glass, further animating the appearance of the building.
The impact
Our unwavering commitment to design excellence was demonstrated in the result of this project. For years to come, it will be recognized as a beacon in Vancouver’s skyline. Additionally, in alignment with Vancouver’s commitment to climate action and building sustainable communities, the towers are LEED Gold certified. One Burrard Place and The Offices were the first mixed-use buildings required to meet an energy use intensity target that was the precursor to the current Green Building Policy for Rezoning and the Higher Buildings Policy. From solar panels for renewable energy to water conservation systems and the incorporation of natural lighting and ventilation, One Burrard Place will be an example for future tall buildings.
