[Feathered Friend]

West End’s Elegant Sky Gardens Silence Vancouver’s Harshest Urban Design Critics

1640-1650 Alberni Street
Recently I was asked whether my frequent attendance at the Urban Design Panel has given me any insight into how they think. While Hannah and I have learned a lot since our first open house, the opinions of the panel often fluctuate with the rotation of new volunteers. A year ago, sustainability was front of mind, and the advice to incorporate isokorb was routine. Now discussions of green roofs, prominent entryways, and a dislike of tall buildings often dominate many sessions.

This meeting proved no different, as two members continued to struggle over why the West End Community Plan allows for this level of density. Fortunately for the applicant, the rest of the panel had no such qualms, as the majority strongly supported this project’s height, density, and overall look. These volunteers found the rigour and order of the shifting floor-plates quiet elegant, and particularly appreciated that it provided each home with a large continuous balcony.

https://cityduo.wordpress.com/2020/11/13...ancouvers-harshest-urban-design-critics/