Canada Place, Vancouver

CANADA
Vancouver

Architects::
Zeidler Roberts Partnership/Architects, Toronto; Downs/Archambault & Partners, Vancouver; Musson Cattell Mackey Partnership, Vancouver

Structural Engineers:
Read Jones Christoffersen Ltd., Vancouver

Vancouver is the largest and busiest port on the entire west coast of the Americas. Its waterfront is central to the city's past and present and the panoramic view of the harbour, mountains and city skyline is a valuable asset belonging to all its residents. Replacing an old decayed pier in the central business district, there is now a vast multi-function complex, which includes cruise ship terminal, convention centre, small shopping centre, restaurants, office building complex and a 505 bed hotel. Canada Place is also the terminus for a new commuter 'seabus' service and the 'Sky Train' rapid transit system. Up to five cruise ships can be catered simultaneously, and from up on the public promenade city people can take part in the enjoyment and excitement of a sea voyage. The entire shell of the building is steel, which enabled great flexibility in planning, particularly in the 170 foot span convention centre halls, which called for a 17 foot high truss. Translucent white sails, rigged on bridge-strand structural cable stop the exhibition halls, consciously evoking the romance of travel by sea. This immense complex nevertheless retains a human scale. The result is a powerful image and city landmark.