I must add that even though Vancouver's famous skyline (as seen over False Creek) is rather boring-looking with all the the clone towers, Yaletown still has a great streetscape, which is lively, vibrant and also pretty lush. I really like walking around the area and hanging out in there, even though the towers are not that interesting. It's the podiums that are to thank for this.
I can't say the same for Coal Harbour in Vancouver and City Place in Toronto. The last time I was in Toronto was back in 2009, so I acknowledge it may have improved since, but at least back then walking around in the area felt dead and un-inviting for pedestrians. Today the density is much higher, but I still haven't seen any photos of a vibrant and pedestrian-inviting streetscape in the area.
So to me the towers around City Place are impressive in height and density, but so boring and sterile in architecture, and they completely lack interaction with the surrounding cityscape. There is no feeling of community for the area. It's just a bedroom neighbourhood.
I am happy to be proven wrong with some great photos of the livelyhood of the area!
