The Edmonton Arena District, located in the heart of Alberta's capital, is getting a dramatic facelift. The newly-rebranded Ice District is on the rise, literally, thanks to several condominium and office towers planned or currently under construction. In partnership with WAM Development Group and Katz Group PropertiesStantec is erecting a 69-storey highrise known as the Stantec tower. As the company's new headquarters it will be Edmonton's tallest building, standing more than 250 metres above ground. 

The Stantec Tower, by Stantec, WAM Development Group and Katz Group

Located in the future largest mixed-use sports and entertainment district in Canada, which spans from 101st Street to 104th Street and from 103rd Avenue to 106th Avenue, the Stantec Tower will consist of 454 residential units atop 26 floors of world-class office spaces, three floors of retail spaces and 12,696 square metres of public space, steps away from the yet-to-be-completed Rogers Arena.

The Stantec Tower, by Stantec, WAM Development Group and Katz Group

The recently redesigned tower has seen an increase in height and number of floors as well as a structural change, mostly regarding the shape and size of the balconies from which dwellers will take in the views over the city and its surroundings. The roof line is now sporting a simpler, straighter shape, in line with the sleek look of the building. 

The Stantec Tower site looking northwest, picture by Daveography

While excavation is now complete, the latest photo update shows that the crane was installed in July, marking a new milestone for the project. With shoring underway, the first concrete pillars are emerging from the ground and it is now only a matter of weeks before we see the first underground levels taking shape and catching up with the northeastern structure that is already well under construction, partially reaching street level. 

The Stantec Tower site looking south, picture by Daveography

Set for completion in 2018, the Stantec Tower will undoubtedly bring a refreshing change to a neighbourhood where parking garages and empty lots used to be a dominant feature of the streetscape. The influx of new residents, office workers, retail and public spaces will certainly have a positive impact, not only for the corner of 102 & 103 Streets NW but for Downtown Edmonton as a whole. 

General view of the site looking north, picture by Daveography

You can get involved in the discussion or share your photos of the Stantec Tower by following the link provided below.