This renovation project involved the renewal and upgrade of a 14-storey medical building. Originally designed by McCarter Nairne, the building was finished in 1960 and is one of the few remaining examples of international style in Vancouver. In the 1990s the character of the building was altered extensively with a renovation that covered the original tile façade with insulation and stucco, resulting in a more monolithic appearance.

Ph5’s analysis of the original building design and its current state defined opportunities for its renovation. Exterior repainting was required for building maintenance. The new paint was a simple and cost-effective method to improving the building’s overall aesthetic. The tri-colour pattern recaptures the visual interest of the mosaic tiles and highlights the building’s modernist geometry. The bold façade pattern is recognizable in the skyline from locations all over the city. More subtle details become evident up close. Approaching the building along Broadway from the east, golden yellow highlights are revealed; from the west, they change to teal.

Renovations also included the base of the building, entry courtyard and the lobby. The street-level façades are clad in a basalt stone and feature an elegant curve that spans over the old parapet. The surface and texture of the basalt has a dynamic quality that change with the natural light of the day and seasons.

The design of the entry courtyard and lobby focused on making a positive impact on health and well-being. The two-storey lobby was opened up to bring in natural light and visually connect the interiors with sky views. A wood screen extending from the lobby to mezzanine level creates an inviting atmosphere and is a directional cue to draw people towards the elevators. The back-lit wood screen is also visible from the street and evokes a warm glow in the winter afternoons.

The original terrazzo flooring has been partially retained and married with new ceramic floor tiles which echo the pattern of the building façade. The tile pattern flows from the sidewalk, through the exterior courtyard and into the lobby. The pattern visually marks the building entrance and draws people toward the recessed lobby doors. Planted areas in the courtyard are integrated into the tile design.

Address
750 West Broadway, Vancouver, BC

Date
2015 under construction

Budget
$3.1 M
33,000 SF

Credits
ph5 architecture