It's often pointed out here that Toronto has blocked out its old skyline with new towers, it now seems as though Montreal is suffering the same fate.
Actually I don't think it's suffering the same fate at all. We're lucky to have the Aldred and the Royal Bank building both guaranteed to always hold a prominent place in the skyline. In fact the entire front layers of the skyline are never going to change or get tall(er), as these are protected heritage zones. Like this.
The new 5 or 6 200m towers coming up were all built on previously vacant lots, so no demolition or weird frankensteing a facade needed.
I like that our new wave of tall buildings are actually filling up those wide gaps, and they're wedging themselves into the urban fabric, rather than surplant it.
There is a question of balance and Montreal is nowhere near the "sea of generic blue condos" level. For me personally, I care more about the urban fabric and the main in-person views like the ones you get with old Montreal in the foreground and that is less likely to change because I don't think condo towers would be approved around there.
Often the views posted here are interesting but not really the most common day-to-day views or what the planning rules are concerned about. As an example I'm talking about drone shots out over the water vs. the lookout on Mount Royal.
This angle always gives me this oddly contrived and amusement park like city.
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"The destructive effects of automobiles are much less a cause than a symptom of our incompetence at city building" - Jane Jacobs 1961ish
Started a new job a few weeks ago. Only been in the office four times so haven't explored all that much yet. This is the view from the 11th. Haven't been up to 22 for the better shots.
I'm loving CIBC Square. It really fills that space nicely and I love how it looms over the Gardner. And it's hilarious to watch how the Gardner fills in and how long it takes for cars to get on the ramp from York. I could never do that drive every day.
I mentioned earlier that I hadn't been up higher to get better shots. Well I went to 35th floor reception where the view of the lake in unhindered. Too bad the terrace is only open for events. And everywhere but reception is basically for executive clearance so my card wouldn't work. Would be great if I coud look over the railing.
Also went to CIBC Square Phase I for the first time. Lobby is pretty bland except some tall artwork possibly based on Group of Seven's paintings. Then I went up to the park. Escalator was out due to maintenance so I walked up the exterior stairs and my calves were done. Met a girl up there who said oh you could have taken the elevator. All seating is wood. I sure hope they will stain it eventually, when the park is complete. Already showing the effects of exposure.
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