A recently approved project at 601 Beach Crescent in Vancouver will provide 152 social housing units for low- and moderate-income residents plus a cash contribution of $12.1 million for additional social housing in the area, helping to create a more equitable city for people with a range of income levels.

“Vancouver is experiencing a severe shortage of housing that’s affordable to low- and moderate-income renters, said Gil Kelley, general manager of Planning, Urban Design, and Sustainability. “Engaging the private sector is one method to increase the supply of affordable housing without the use of limited senior government funding.”

The 55-storey building will be situated at the north end of the Granville Street Bridge between the bridge offramp and Seymour Street, south of Pacific Street. This site, which has been vacant since Expo 86, had already been designated as a suitable location for a taller, landmark tower to create a visual gateway into the city centre from the bridge.

City staff worked with the project team in responding to feedback from the Urban Design Panel and the public, resulting in an architecturally creative tower with ground level commercial space that will produce a vibrant public realm for residents of all income levels to live work and play. This project also offers significant leadership in sustainability with a passive design that will reduce carbon emissions 50 per cent more than what’s required in the city’s Green Building Policy.

The new building will comprise of a total of 455 homes, including 303 condominiums in addition to the 152 social housing unit. The podium also includes approximately 25,000 sq. ft. of commercial space.

Pinnacle International is the developer, and the design is by Shanghai-based Jyom Architecture and local firm GBL Architects. The tower design, inspired by the dancing movement of a dress, compliments the Vancouver House across the street.