The development of 1550 Alberni showcases the innovation and progressiveness of the Vancouver building industry. This 43-story condominium tower boasts an iconic curved façade that emulates two scoops shaped by vertically layered and staggered timber balconies. drawing inspiration from Japanese culture and design, this stunning concept creates semi-enclosures that provide the building’s occupants with a greater connection to the urban environment around them. The rest of the enclosure is an intricately designed integration of metal panels and curtain wall, delivering both a comfortable living space and optimal views.
Our team was brought on to the project during the conceptual stage as the building enclosure consultant and façade designer, with an emphasis on supporting the delivery of the building’s unique façade. By also taking on the role of façade structural engineer, we were able to apply our expertise in this area and provide a comprehensive façade service for the client. This project presented us the opportunity to work alongside renowned Japanese architect, Kengo Kuma and Associates.
To achieve the building’s unique façade, the project required a new and innovative glazing and enclosure system. A complex façade such as this comes with multiple design and logistical challenges. To address these challenges and ensure that the project will be completed on schedule and within budget, the façade needed to be procured from a manufacturer in South Korea. As a result, our team has been extensively involved in the procurement process. So far, our team has performed quality assurance reviews of the performance mock-up and testing, and of the manufacturing plant during production, to ensure that the façade products will meet the project team’s expectations.
Our team’s ability to create an ongoing relationship with the manufacturer has been a significant aspect of the project’s production success to date. We were present during the development, testing, and manufacturing stages to provide quality assurance and to support the manufacturer’s development of quality control processes. We also managed the design and construction of a performance mock-up of the enclosure system to illustrate the standard that is required to be met during construction.
The project has broken ground and the construction of the building’s inventive façade is well under way. Our team is providing field review and testing services throughout the construction phase and continuing to support the manufacturer as new challenges arise.
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Date:
October 7, 2019
Client:
Westbank
Architect:
Kengo Kuma and Associates, Merrick Architecture
General Contractor:
Graham Construction
Our Role:
Building Enclosure Consultant, Façade Designer, Structural Glazing Engineer
