The Smithe Residences

A hidden art oasis in the sky

The Smithe Residences

“We wanted the units to benefit from the great views and access to daylight. We designed from the inside out knowing that we wanted to open up access to light and amenities.”

Design Goals per Project Architect at GBL Architects (Source)

A focus on residents’ outdoor space was key on this 27-storey mixed commercial/residential high-rise in Downtown Vancouver.

Individual suites’ balconies were prioritized with the design of all-glass balustrades.
We worked in collaboration with the installers to modify our standard doc and pin fitting that would affix glass to metal posts on balcony. Doc and pins were to be used on all of the residential balconies; that’s quite a few to install over the large number of suites.
To save install time, we added a “hook” design to our doc fittings. The install became simple; pins were installed to the support posts, then glass was installed to the face of the docs. Each panel of glass was then simply lowered via docs onto the pins and then locked in place. Install time was dramatically decreased and an overall clean aesthetic was kept for the glass guard with Stella’s subtly curved hardware.

Then, look up, look way up to a hidden art oasis in the sky.
Traditionally a “tower and podium” design is used on high-rises; however this wasn’t possible with the condensed site so GBL Architects had a creative solution to maximize outdoor space.

“Above the commercial levels, we undercut the tower on the south/southwest edge of site and opened up 2,500 square feet of usable outdoor space and amenities. This outdoor area opens up to indoor amenities where a communal kitchen and dining area gives residents the opportunity to host social events.”

Per architect in Vancouver Sun article sourced above.

A unique amenity floorplan was created, and then topped with spectacular artwork.

The developer, Boffo Developments, commissioned a massive, illuminated public art installation that stretches across the podium soffit. Based on a 1.8m [6′] oil painting by Vancouver-based Ben Reeves, “Viewpoint” was photographed and digitally reproduced onto nine stretched fabric panels spanning 7.6m [25’] in width and 24m [80’] in length.

We love how this vibrant piece lights up the amenity space and streets below – it is truly a hidden gem at the corner of Smithe and Cambie street.

Stella is proud to create the “frame” around this residents’ lounge – contemporary glass balustrades surround this 6th floor oasis and ensure clear sightlines out to the city as well as up to the artwork from the street. Our adjustable doc and pin fittings were used to subtly mount the glass to the support posts; this hardware created a consistent expression with our hardware that was used on residents’ balconies above.

Photos copyright: We See Design Inc.