Last month, a proposal that would become the tallest residential tower in Edmonton received approval from city council despite concerns about the building's design and perceived lack of community contributions. On Monday, another towering mass proposed for Jasper Avenue NW and 120 Street NW garnered a much warmer reception. The 35-storey development was granted unanimous approval by council, clearing the way for WAM Development Group to proceed with their vision.

CNIB Redevelopment rendering, image via WAM Development Group

The site is currently home to offices for the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, which are slated to be relocated to the second floor of the new tower. The existing three-storey building was originally constructed in the 1950s as a residence in what has become a highly coveted area under intense development pressure. Ground-level retail with high ceilings will shape the street frontage and 33 storeys of rental residences form the bulk of the project.

CNIB Redevelopment rendering, image via WAM Development Group

In stark contrast to his thoughts on the Emerald Tower scheme, Mayor Don Iveson heaped praise on the CNIB Redevelopment, calling the design by Toronto's Wallman Architects "beautiful" and "spectacular." A staggered pattern of unique exterior frames surround the balconies, giving residents increased privacy while creating a playful architectural aesthetic. Key elements of the facade have been designed with the visually impaired in mind, including sheets of frosted glass embroidered with braille that will welcome CNIB clients into the building. The two-storey podium — infused with colourful vertical fins — establishes a strong street presence. Atop this base, a fully landscaped garden and terrace will undoubtedly serve as a popular hangout space for residents. 

The development site inclusive of the existing CNIB offices, image retrieved from Google Street View

Five percent of the 400 one- and two-bedroom units are being set aside as affordable housing for CNIB clients. At 0.625 parking stalls per unit, only four underground parking levels will be required. Though the plan entails a significant up-zoning, the precedent for greater height was set just across the street when the 35-storey Pearl condominium arrived in 2015. Both towers mark the steady urban intensification of the Oliver neighbourhood, which was already recognized as one of Edmonton's densest districts. 

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