When we last checked in on 707 Fifth Street in Calgary, its first few steel floors were taking shape around the central concrete core. Manulife Real Estate is developing this downtown office tower to LEED Gold specifications. At 27 storeys, the tower is relatively short in stature, but what it lacks in height it makes up for in amenities and design. 

707 Fifth Street, image via Skidmore, Owings & Merrill

707 Fifth is well integrated with Calgary's transportation system. C-Train and bus network stops are located steps from the front doors, five levels of parking are housed underground, and 132 bicycle spaces provide easy access into and out of the building for all modes of transport. Pedestrians will be happy to learn that the development also connects to Calgary's Plus 15 skybridge network.

707 Fifth Street, image via Skidmore, Owings & Merrill

An on-site conference centre provides a large space for business meetings, while a fitness centre and showers give tenants a chance to blow off any workplace stress amassed throughout the day. Retailers and restaurants activate the streetscape and supply workers with an additional escape. 

707 Fifth Street, image via 707fifth.com's webcam

The lobby floors are paved with granite, the walls with marble, and landscaped gardens lie across the space. Brion Energy will anchor the tower as the lead tenant when the building opens for business next year. 

707 Fifth Street construction, image by Forum contributor Surrealplaces

Designed by world-renowned architects Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, a glazed triple-pane curtain wall system skins the structure. New photos captured by Forum contributor Surrealplaces show the very first row of glass beginning installation, as the rest of the indented tower is wrapped for protection from the elements. Though construction activity currently obstructs a good view of the facade, we can tell that the glass is highly reflective. We'll be watching this closely from the ground and from above as more glass is installed. 

707 Fifth Street construction, image by Forum contributor Surrealplaces

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Related Companies:  Manulife Investment Management, Real Estate