After an 18-year career with Acton Ostry Architects (AOA) principal Alan Davies is retiring on November 30, 2021. Davies joined AOA in 2004 and led a number of significant projects that transformed various neighbourhoods throughout Vancouver. Completed in 2009, the revitalization of Gastown’s historic Alhambra Hotel, Cordage Building, Garage Building, Terminus Hotel, and Grand Hotel was a challenging mix of residential, retail, and office uses that juxtaposed old with new to preserve and revitalize a remarkable remnant of Vancouver’s early urban fabric. The project received numerous accolades and recognition, including the Lieutenant Governor of BC Medal of Excellence in Architecture.
An exceptional restoration of the venerable Flack Block soon followed in 2010, with the project receiving a Heritage BC Outstanding Achievement Award. Completed in 2018, The Duke rental housing project in Mount Pleasant features a soaring open-air atrium with colourful entry doors, topped with a high-tensile steel and Teflon canopy. The innovative project received numerous design awards, including the Homebuilders Association Vancouver Award for Excellence in Innovative Housing.
Completed in 2019, the landmark Independent features an eclectic expression unique to the creative Mount Pleasant neighbourhood. Five distinct building blocks define a lavish landscaped courtyard with the tallest featuring a tree-topped crown that marks The Independent in Vancouver’s skyline. The project recently received a 2021 Grands Prix du Design Award for residential architecture, a fitting cap to Alan’s distinguished career. Davies has given back to the community throughout his 30-years in architecture through participation on numerous committees, boards, and organizations, with a term on the City of Vancouver Urban Design Panel soon coming to a close. He has a keen interest in the education of young architects and has been involved with mentoring programs at the AIBC, UBC, and AOA. After retirement, he plans to stay involved with community activities and initiatives by bringing his thoughtful, steady approach to solving problems large or small and to continue to accomplish tremendous things.
