The Independent (180 Kingsway) | 64.7m | 19fl | Completed

[Architype]

Originally Posted by rofina

A lot to love here, and a good bit to hate.

On the pro side, I feel the colors, patterns and architecture generally fit in well with the neighborhood feel. I like the density, I like the height. The angles are different, its a neat looking building.

The unforgivable sin for me is the podium and set back. Its not like this is the only high-rise in Vancouver, but its the only that makes me feel unwelcome on the sidewalk.

The looming presence of the imposing podium is overwhelming and completely ruins the street level experience for me.

Hopefully I'm the only one - considering Main street is key for walkability.

The problem is that the podium isn't really a podium, it's just a big hulking mass plunked down next to the tower. It almost imitates the Lee Building across the street which actually extends over the sidewalk.

[jlousa]

OD is correct the grocery store space got nixed ages ago. Grocery stores hate multilevels. There are a few out there but they don't work. IGA is pretty displeased with how the Burrard and Smith location works for them.
Also the VSB is the one dragging their feet with Kingsgate mall. They are hesitant to sell, but perhaps if the provincial ndp asks them to they would respond differently, just be mindful of the conditions likely on such a sale.

[retro_orange]

Originally Posted by Architype

The problem is that the podium isn't really a podium, it's just a big hulking mass plunked down next to the tower. It almost imitates the Lee Building across the street which actually extends over the sidewalk.

Yeah the podium still has a lot to be completed, it will come down to detailing and I hope they have some tricks up their sleeve to make the massing seem appropriate. I can't remember now, will the podium have residential?

[LeftCoaster]

Originally Posted by jlousa

OD is correct the grocery store space got nixed ages ago. Grocery stores hate multilevels. There are a few out there but they don't work. IGA is pretty displeased with how the Burrard and Smith location works for them.
Also the VSB is the one dragging their feet with Kingsgate mall. They are hesitant to sell, but perhaps if the provincial ndp asks them to they would respond differently, just be mindful of the conditions likely on such a sale.

Agree multi-level groceries are tough, but surprised IGA isn't pleased, every time I've ever been in there its absolutely packed.

[jlousa]

Apparently it's a logistics headache and they also experience significantly more shrinkage then their Robson st location due to layout concerns. The Overweitea group did an indepth study on 2 level stores because of Burrard Gateway and decided the cons were too much to go that route.

[LeftCoaster]

Ahh fair, I was thinking from a purely sales standpoint. Shrinkiage must be a huge problem at most downtown grocery stores though.

[logan5]

There is a large enough space for buy low to occupy just 1 floor so no need for multi levels.

[Vin]

Originally Posted by logan5

Buy Low is not a huge store. Somebody look into this. I think buy low is moving in. I'm hoping this will trigger some movement on the Kingsgate property.

Are you receptive to the idea of having a spanking new mall to be built there?

[officedweller]

From the general thread:

Originally Posted by Vanville

The Independent on Main St., my pic July 28

[officedweller]

From June 30th:

The mural will be painted on the loading bay door and surround on Watson Street.


MT @vanmuralfest: excited to announce @tavukciyan has been named winner of The Independent Mural Contest
https://twitter.com/RizeAlliance

[Feathered Friend]

I made sure to make time during the Mural Festival to grab a few photos of the tower itself, and not just the plentiful artwork. I really like how this project has embraced the festival, both during construction and with this piece.

[officedweller]

Weird - that's not the same mural they announced as the winner. But it is the same artist.

[retro_orange]

There are now a bunch of conifer trees on the roof of the tower, not small either! They're grouped like a mini forest which is neat looking up there.

[mcminsen]

http://www.actonostry.ca/project/the-independent-apartment-vancouver/



Aug.22 '17, my pics

[retro_orange]

Originally Posted by mcminsen

Awesome thanks for taking those pics mcminsen! I think this tower will look great once complete. I'm really liking all the articulation of the facade in that render you posted and it seem to be transpiring to the real product as well!

Another heads up, they have begun laying red brick on the podium above the sidewalk that's very similar in red colour to Midtown at Carolina but in a 'stack bond', very retro. Loving it.

[vanman]

Very cool! Thanks for the pics.

[officedweller]

Thanks.
Reminds me a bit of the clusters of conifers at the Plaza of Nations (planted for Expo 86).

[csbvan]

Year around greenery, I like it. It would be pretty great up there after a snowfall.

[mcminsen]

Hey, the crane came down. I missed that. I like the profile now with the crown of trees. I hope they will be well maintained and cared for.

As seen from the pedestrian bridge over Broadway at Commercial...



Sept.2 '17, my pic

[mcminsen]

As seen from Cambie Bridge yesterday.



Sept.27 '17, my pics