Vancouver's housing market its often synonymous with glassy downtown condominiums towers or costly Specials. However, a large number of mid-rise buildings are contributing to the densification of the peninsula and its surroundings, bringing smaller mid- to highrise buildings where zoning regulations and view corridor preservation do not allow for skyscraping developments. A recent photo update by our Forum member mcminsen show some of these smaller scale projects and their impact on the neighbourhood. 

BlueSky Chinatown and 188 Keefer, image by Forum contributor mcminsen

Starting in Chinatown, which is currently the target of a revitalization plan that aims to foster economic growth, BlueSky Chinatown (left) and the adjacent 188 Keefer project (right) are redefining an entire city block by reinforcing a consistent street wall along Main street. The first edifice is a 15-storey, 192-unit rental building designed by Chris Dikeakos Architects and developed by Blue Sky Properties, and the neighbouring W T Leung-designed tower will offer 181 condominium units developed by Westbank Corp. Both residences will welcome their first residents this year. 

Framework, image by Forum contributor mcminsen

One block to the north at 231 East Pender Street is Framework, a 60-unit condominium building now rising towards its final height of eight stories. Developed by Vancouver-based Porte Development and designed by Bingham Hill Architects, Framework has replaced a parking lot. Two different facade treatments, red and yellow bricks, combined with upper floor setbacks will give the impression that two different buildings are standing on the site; recalling the narrow facades of the neighbourhood. Completion is scheduled for the summer of 2016.

FiveTen Seymour, image by Forum contributor mcminsen

Moving west on Pender Street towards Seymour Street, a 10-storey Class A office building known as FiveTen Seymour is emerging on the southeast corner of the intersection. Designed by Serracan Investments, most of the 7,600 square metres of office space have been leased in this LEED Gold development. This project replaces a two-storey 1905-built structure, and will participate in the eastward expansion of the central business district. Finally, a rooftop terrace equipped with barbecues will allow tenants to take in views of the city during the summer months.

Jubilee House, image by Forum contributor mcminsen

Further south on the northwest corner of Richards and Helmcken Streets is Jubilee House, a project designed by gBL Architects and developed by Brenhill Developments. Characterized by a facade punctuated with protruding windows, the new edifice will replace the existing Jubilee House, a deteriorating shelter for low income tenants. It will consist of 87 replacement units as well as 75 low-end-of-market rental units across 13 storeys.

More information and renderings about these projects are available in the dedicated Database entries below. You can also share your opinion — and pictures — about these buildings by visiting the corresponding Forum threads, linked below.