Vancouver constructing begins on tallest building
http://www.livingshangri-la.com/images/pinkOrchidLogo.jpg

The lower 15 floors will house the Shangri-La Hotel, the first Shangri-La location in North America. Hugely famous in Asia, it will likely have the highest room rates in Canada.
Standing 150 feet higher than Vancouver's current tallest building and ends in 2008, in time for 2010 olympics

Vancouver: Hong Kong-based Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts has signed a deal that will see 15 floors of the city's tallest tower made into an opulent, five-star luxury hotel. It is Shangri-La's first venture in North America. The full-service 120 guest rooms will all be between 500 and 750 square feet and will likely garner the city's highest room rates. The chain, with 42 hotel properties and 28 more in development, was attracted to Vancouver because of its reputation as an Asian gateway.

Locating in the city's new 642-foot high signature tower was an easy decision as the project is destined to be an instant landmark. The Shangri-La entry marks the first hotel brand to come to Canada in five years. CEO Giovanni Angelini says the chain is looking at expansion into other North American locations such as New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

CDN$350 million.

-Plans include a curated public sculpture garden.
-A 120-room hotel, including restaurants and spa, takes up the first 15 floors. General live-work homes (227 units) are on floors 16 to 42 and private access residential units on floors 43-59 (63 units) with penthouse on floor 60.
- The hotel guestrooms, averaging 550 square feet, are among the largest in Canada.
- Penthouse listed at $7.4 million (June 2005).
- During the height of construction activity 1,000 workers will be on site constructing 1 floor per week.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/28vancouver-1120westgeorgia-07.jpg
http://thehoddlegrid.net/dump/shangri-la-vcr.jpg
http://www.emporis.com/files/transfer/6/2005/05/361810.jpg
http://www.emporis.com/files/transfer/6/2003/09/221061.jpg
http://lvl.verttech.com/camera/1-1-1.jpg
http://www.nonstopdesign.com/shangrila/DSCN8643-740.jpg
http://www.nonstopdesign.com/shangrila/DSCN8641-740.jpg
http://www.nonstopdesign.com/shangrila/DSCN8640-740.jpg
http://www.nonstopdesign.com/shangrila/DSCN8637-740.jpg
http://www.livingshangri-la.com
http://lvl.verttech.com/LVL-Cam/webcam.html
SSP-Emporis

This is great! Can't wait to see one of T.O.'s major projects begin construction.

beautiful building... glad to see it done excavation.

Hopefully some of the Vancouver forumers can keep us updated! This is a beauty.

Nice pix! I was under the impression it was already built!

Seems like Q1 version of Vancouver. Cant wait to see it finish.

Very nice....are there any other renderings???

Very nice....are there any other renderings???Yeah, there are more renders and models too (and lots of info) HERE (http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=176375) - Make sure you also click onto "Click here to see more files" to see more lol.

A really nice sleek design :okay:

cool project!

Hopefully some of the Vancouver forumers can keep us updated! This is a beauty.

Just got a digital camera and I'll be going getting some pictoral updates on this building. The total height to roof will be 646 ft. There will be a private roofgarden on floor 61.

great addition!!

Yeah, there are more renders and models too (and lots of info) HERE (http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=176375) - Make sure you also click onto "Click here to see more files" to see more lol.

A really nice sleek design :okay:
Wow.....thanks for the link:D:D

holy crap that thing is beautiful.

Cool! Nice to see this tower rise, good design and cool construction site! It is deep!

Just got a digital camera and I'll be going getting some pictoral updates on this building. The total height to roof will be 646 ft. There will be a private roofgarden on floor 61.

Great! It'll be a nice addition for Vancouver

love the shape and the roof. definitely one great construction project to look forward to.

Very excited to see this go up, does anyone know what the lower "mall" will house?

sleek and simple. I liked it!

Looks like a good project for Vancouver.

Hey my webcam actually works. Cool

Wait, I thought there was already a Shangri-la in Vancouver before?

Wait, I thought there was already a Shangri-la in Vancouver before?

This is the first one in the city.

interesting project.

Very excited to see this go up, does anyone know what the lower "mall" will house?

I believe it will have a grocery store, restaraunts and a public (outdoor?) art gallery.

Very nice....are there any other renderings???
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/1_main.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/1120west.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/4288shangrila4b.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/161120wgeorgia06.jpg

Very nice....are there any other renderings???

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/1120west.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/4288shangrila4b.jpg

Tallest in Vancouver, Wow!!!!

This is the first one in the city.

first one in north america

sicccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccc

So how high in meters is 642 feets?

Cosmo -
during the 1990s the Pacific Palisades Hotel was operated by Shangri-La, but they sold their interest or terminated the contract (don't recall if they owned the buildings or just managed them). Their return puts them a half block away from where they used to be.

So how high in meters is 642 feets?

642 feet = 196 metres

How is it that they broke the height limit rules? And are any other buildings slated to vie for this new title, of Vancouvers tallest?

^ because their is no height limit rule, just a viewing cone rule.

Vancouver's skyline is very low,now...So I like this tower so much. And the design is not bad :)

very nice render, should fit well in skyline

I love when things 'just make sense' and are done in context.

And therefore, I think it's absolutely fitting and really great that the first Shangri-La hotel in North America would be in Vancouver.

It just seems right, and the Asian population is also quite large there.

I'm excited about this one.

-thryve

I think this thread needs some updates.


http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/cs/?id=176375

It sure is taking a long time...

Cosmo -
during the 1990s the Pacific Palisades Hotel was operated by Shangri-La, but they sold their interest or terminated the contract (don't recall if they owned the buildings or just managed them). Their return puts them a half block away from where they used to be.

Yeah, I remember seeing this in a CX hotels catalogue.

Well this is the most beautiful Shangri-La hotel building ever! I hope Shangri-La will do a great job operating this hotel.

So are Shangri-La a chain?

Update from today. Posted by Phesto at SSP.

http://img167.imageshack.us/img167/525/1xy9.jpg

By Archtype

http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/1304/shangrilawhere3si9.jpg

Good update. Thanks for posting this. I am keeping an eye on this project.

Yeah good update, I would like to see more updates of this one, being the new tallest for this lovely city!

That's going to look great in the skyline of Vancouver. Can't wait to go back and see it once it's finished.

I've found a map of the location:

http://www.shangri-la.com/vancouver/shangri-la/en/images/3_map.gif

Nice to see some taller towers going up in Vancouver, great design! Hope I'll be able to visit some day.

/Mats

nice design, really glassy.

Yeah, I remember seeing this in a CX hotels catalogue.

Well this is the most beautiful Shangri-La hotel building ever! I hope Shangri-La will do a great job operating this hotel.

Wait until you see the Toronto one. Sorry I couldn't help myself. hehe

Oooh nice tower. Good for Vancouver! Toronto can't be the only cool city... So when it said that this is the first Shangri La in North America, that means we beat USA! I think it should be taller though, its only 197m and the Toronto one is 214m according to emporis. Its nice to see vancouver with some taller buildings.

Nice updates

The site for the tower is f-ing awesome..I didn't realize where exactly it was going to be located, but the way it fits between the two streets is going to be really nice. The shape is really nice too...

p5

fscking deep

Not a recent update, but an update none the less. November 2nd.

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Misc/1.jpg

Shot from webcam. Posted by raggedy13 at SSP.

This is great. Thanks for the pic!

:)

Good update, nice picture

The Shangri-La tower is now well above street level. The developer is intending to raise it at the rate of a storey a week. However there have been a number of rather severe weather events by Vancouver standards recently that may have slowed construction. This past November saw the most precipitation ever recorded in that month in Vancouver history. Steady rain, a snow storm, and several lashings of 100+ km/hr windstorms all must have had an effect. Never the less, the tower is coming along and I believe it is still on track to be finished some time in 2008.

Below is a link to the developer's high-resolution webcam. It is on 24/7 and it may very well be night-time when people visit it. Vancouver is on Pacific Standard Time; GMT-8.
http://lvl.verttech.com:8050/video/2/1/1

A second tall tower is going to be built across the street from the Shangri-La. It is currently unnamed but will include a 150 room Ritz-Carlton Hotel in the bottom 24 stories and 163 residential units in the upper 33 stories. The tower is being designed by Arthur Erickson and will stand 59 stories tall; approximately 600 ft / 200M. The tower has a triangular floor plate that twists 45 degrees as it climbs. It will have an uninterrupted curtain wall of green glass. The plans call for 466,000 square feet of space divided between hotel, residential, office, and amenity uses.

Please see below for more information and a picture.
Info: http://www.pacificmetropolis.com/2005/06/new_buildings_s.html
Model: http://pacificmetropolis.typepad.com/.shared/image.html?/photos/uncategorized/1133_west_georgia.jpg

The building goes through the City of Vancouver's Development Permit board on Monday December 18th, 2006.

EDIT: Christmas lights are now up on the Shrangri-La's East crane. This has become a tradition in the city and one of the developers, Concord Pacific, even writes out a vertical Christmas greeting in the windows of in-progress towers on prominent city streets.

very nice, thanks for the update!

Vancouver was just hit by the strongest storm since a typhoon hit the city in 1962. The winds topped 157km/hr and it did a real number on the city's trees. In Stanley Park more than 300 mature trees including 150'+ Douglas firs and cedars blew down, closing the causeway, Lions Gate suspension bridge, and damaging sections of the seawall. 240,000 people were without power throughout the city and now, even several days later there are still pockets of people in the dark. I don't think anyone died but there were more than a few stories in the news of houses cut in two by falling pine tress and the occupants had left their beds mere moments before.

Everything seems to be ticking along at the dozen or so construction sites I pass by daily; I guess after the month we've had the crews are used to it and tie everything down as a matter of course. I don't imagine the Shangri-La lost any construction time as the storm hit at night and died down by morning. Never the less, with all the heavy winds we've had lately I would bet the future occupants of Vancouver's new breed of tall towers will be thankful for the mass dampers that should keep their buildings from swaying too much.

Further update: The Province newspaper has put the number of downed trees in Stanley Park at well over a thousand. All the precipitation we've recieved over the last six weeks has left the soil completely saturdated and the winds just toppled the trees as if they were in wet sand.

nice update

Update by Androo3 of SSP

Facade testing

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/Vancouver20005.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/339125259_0ce2fd637b.jpg

Courtesy of squeezied

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/close_shangrila20.jpg

Progress by phesto

http://img506.imageshack.us/img506/9721/livingshangrila1rz4.jpg

Update by Androo3 of SSP

Facade testing

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/Vancouver20005.jpg

Okay, as much as I am in love with Toronto, this is undeniably the most exciting construction photo from a Canadian city that I've seen for a while! I'm excited!

Aren't we all!

I'm glad to see this one finally making some good progress, exciting times for Vancouver.

damn, this took so long to get out of the ground, now to see it rize is amazing, loving this tower!

This is wonderful for Vancouver!!

Can't wait to see T.O.'s multiple office towers begin rising this year!!

Can we have a construction update? That glass looks really cool so far, but that's judging from the sole panel they'd put up in the last update ;)

^^ Sure thing boss. ;)

Updates from SSP

Courtesy of squeakymarmot

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/337450316_ac89fd01e9.jpg


Courtesy of Westcoast604

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/dsc01248hr0.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/dsc01245vu3.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/dsc01246ar5.jpg

Courtesy of Raggedy13

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/shang9.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/shang5.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/shang8.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/shang3.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/shang1.jpg

Courtesy of Delirium

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y101/oct2gon/1168723009281.jpg

Pics 1, 2, 3, and 5 are amazing!!!

This project never interested me a whole lot before, but seeing it going up has got me really interested... it looks great already!

Yes, but Vancouver needs a lot ore of this. One project will not change anything. I hope some of the other tall high quality proposals and rumors go through.

What street is this project on?

Shangri-La Vancouver is looking good. I like the renderings and the look of the materials. I can't wait for Toronto's Shangri-La tower to be officially announced.

Shangri-La Vancouver is looking good. I like the renderings and the look of the materials. I can't wait for Toronto's Shangri-La tower to be officially announced.

That happened a long time ago.

Shangri-La Vancouver is looking good. I like the renderings and the look of the materials. I can't wait for Toronto's Shangri-La tower to be officially announced.

Here is the render of Toronto's Shangri-la.

http://clarksbury.com/cdl/ut/slrender.jpg

What street is this project on?

It borders three streets. Alberni Street, Thurlow Street and West Georgia Street.

What street is this project on?

W Georgia

Cheers for that....

Here are some pics from this afternoon...


http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Construction/100_7136.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Construction/100_7137.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Construction/100_7138.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Construction/100_7139.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Construction/100_7140.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Construction/100_7141.jpg

Is Toronto Shangri-La project shelved?

Facade looks very nice! Thanks for the pics!

do those things glow at night?

Shangri-la Toronto is still a go, showsuite should open before the end of the month. Rennie is doing the marketing.

do those things glow at night?

Drove past at night and no lights to speak of. I think they are just holographic glass.

More dark glass on Shangri-La.

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/271/65894830bp6.jpg

Funny, was just talking about this building over at SSC. Great to see the pix!
Looking nice....

Some new pics as of Feb 18th...

Starting to peak out from Robson
http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Downtown%20Chinatown/100_7188.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Downtown%20Chinatown/100_7189.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Downtown%20Chinatown/100_7191.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Downtown%20Chinatown/100_7202.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Downtown%20Chinatown/100_7204.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Downtown%20Chinatown/100_7206.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Downtown%20Chinatown/100_7207.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Downtown%20Chinatown/100_7226.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Downtown%20Chinatown/100_7227.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Downtown%20Chinatown/100_7228.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Downtown%20Chinatown/100_7235.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Downtown%20Chinatown/100_7237.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Downtown%20Chinatown/100_7240.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Downtown%20Chinatown/100_7242.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Downtown%20Chinatown/100_7269.jpg

looks like Chicago waterview tower, designwize

Good pics

Updated - 165 completed of a total of 642 feet
http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Construction/100_7380.jpg
http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Construction/100_7381.jpg

This facade's turning out very nice. I really like the horizontal banding in the corner.

Wow! It's very sexy... and it's got a lot of presence, yet it still keeps that Vancouver look.

Keep the updates coming!

I have a feeling this will grow fast.

Building seem to have got of to a running start....seem nice...but is it a half triangle or sum kind of weird shape.....i dont know but keep up the photos..thanx

http://nonstopdesign.com/fotos/DSCN0201-740

http://nonstopdesign.com/fotos/DSCN0202-750

http://www.kasuria.com/tafyrn/photos/2007/KICX4444.jpg


http://www.kasuria.com/tafyrn/photos/2007/KICX4445.jpg

Few probably know that the Shangri-la Hotel chain is owned by a Malaysian man named Robert Kuok, family hometown in Johor Bahru! Way to go Mr Kuok, another one of his ventures into North America.

I am looking forward to seeing photos taken from the top floor of this structure.
Should be beautiful pix...

Great update, Mr. X! Love that glass.

nice progress!

http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s147/excel91/IMGP1689.jpg?t=1175467247
http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s147/excel91/IMGP1690.jpg?t=1175467300
http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s147/excel91/IMGP1725.jpg?t=1175467489

^^ Good progress, thanks guys for the updates

The tower is now 20% of its full height.
http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t290/vancouver_2007/yvr/451639635_fd67101935_b.jpg

Good updates! Exciting seeing it go up!

Some skyscraper enthusiast renderings of what the Shangri-la may look like when completed:
http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/shangri.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Misc/3.jpg

it gonna be a nice addition to your skyline Vancouver...3-cheer.....:banana: HAZAA..... HAZAA .....HAZAA :banana: :banana: :banana:

WOW! This tower is amazing! I miss Vancouver BC already! I need come back and check it out soon.

An awesome tower, it's simple but it's very good looking.

http://img440.imageshack.us/img440/3176/listingimg3566yn1.jpg

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t290/vancouver_2007/471896414_f453cc6422_b.jpg

This is an awesome tower, the renderings make it look quite ethereal.

Great pictures! :)

Can someone tell me what the current height restrictions are in Vancouver? 640+ feet is impressive for Vancouver, but still much lower than the tallest in Seattle and L.A.

Can someone tell me what the current height restrictions are in Vancouver? 640+ feet is impressive for Vancouver, but still much lower than the tallest in Seattle and L.A.

The absolute height restriction is 600 feet, but it is only for certain sites that do not block view corridors. Shangri-la was an exception at 640 feet.

http://www.garibaldiglass.com/images/shangrila.jpghttp://www.garibaldiglass.com/images/shangrila-2-4-3-07.jpg


Across the street from the Shangri-la is another 600 footer, already approved, known as 1133 West Georgia it will be home to Ritz Carlton:
http://www.dysarch.com/UserImages/WebImages/ProjectImages/1.%20RESIDENTIAL/Market%20High%20Rise/1133%20West%20Georgia/1133-West-Georgia-1.jpg
The huge block of vacant land across the street from the tower is the current construction site of Shangri-la.



http://www.dysarch.com/UserImages/WebImages/ProjectImages/1.%20RESIDENTIAL/Market%20High%20Rise/1133%20West%20Georgia/1133-West-Georgia-Drawing.jpg

So cool! Never seen it before :cheers:

nice big hotels come to the Vancouver area....nice...the wont just blend into the skyline...i like that twist in the Ritz...go Van...o by the way could we get to snapshots....thanx

http://img408.imageshack.us/img408/7122/1153rw1.png
Tallest tower: Shangri-La Vancouver - http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=312368
Second tallest tower: Ritz Carlton Vancouver - future website: http://www.ritzcarltonvancouver.com

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t290/vancouver_2007/482369538_400e919a53.jpg

Those green spots really busted the building...:(

Those green spots really busted the building...:(

I actually think they're quite neat. They are holograms and change colour depending on the angle you are looking at it - can be yellow, green, pink, red, blue.

Yeah im not overly keen on the green spots... apart from that great tower.

I actually think they're quite neat. They are holograms and change colour depending on the angle you are looking at it - can be yellow, green, pink, red, blue.

I think they are really cool. They also give texture to the facade.

http://img408.imageshack.us/img408/7122/1153rw1.png
Tallest tower: Shangri-La Vancouver -

^^ I like this picture it look fantastic :)

Shangri-La on May 11, 2007 @ noon
http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/May%2011%202007/100_7473.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/May%2011%202007/100_7480.jpg

building is coming along nicely....seems like everytime i check this thread they have another floor ready...maybe a floor a week....good rate....and they know how to keep up on the facade....not letting it sit to exposed for a long time....keep up with the photos

http://penguindude.250free.com/DSC00160.JPG
http://penguindude.250free.com/DSC00161.JPG
http://penguindude.250free.com/DSC00162.JPG
http://penguindude.250free.com/DSC00163.JPG
http://penguindude.250free.com/DSC00164.JPG
http://penguindude.250free.com/DSC00168.JPG
http://penguindude.250free.com/DSC00169.JPG
http://penguindude.250free.com/DSC00171.JPG
http://penguindude.250free.com/DSC00173.JPG
http://penguindude.250free.com/DSC00174.JPG
http://penguindude.250free.com/DSC00175.JPG

While obviously not the biggest skyline in Canada, Vancouver certainly is emerging as the most picturesque and exciting skyline.

kinda reminds of this tower (http://www.skylinecity.info/rotterdam/fotos/dz%20gz%20fotos/gz%20280.jpg). This building has lights instead of reflectors. Still cool.

Cool tower. The cladding looks really cool. I wasn't aware this tower was under construction. Nice to see it's well underway. Vancouvers skyline will look brilliant when this and 1133 West Georgia are complete.

really like the facade, its quite unique! excited about this one.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/227/498576586_866dc1c6ae.jpg
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/218/500019659_66154941bd.jpg

Update by Androo3 of SSP

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/close_shangrila20.jpg

A tower without a 4rth floor? :D

Lovely building (hmm maybe those green spots shouldn't be there).


Progress by phesto
http://img506.imageshack.us/img506/9721/livingshangrila1rz4.jpg
looks like this building is gonna have a cousin by Grand Hyatt pretty soon.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/203/502157760_f63d8252a0.jpg?v=0

A tower without a 4rth floor? :D


I believe the number 4 is unlucky in China and Vancouver is home to many Chinese.

may 15
http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t290/vancouver_2007/500019659_66154941bd_b.jpg

Taken yesterday:
http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t290/vancouver_2007/514398024_6c60dc6d8d_b.jpg

Coming up pretty nice. :okay:

But somehow it doesnt seem to look like the same tower in the render? :dunno:

rising pretty fast now! :D

never seen a construction pic of that tower, have thought is is nearly finished :D

how tall is this???
may 15
http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t290/vancouver_2007/500019659_66154941bd_b.jpg

^ that's roughly 1/3rd of the height, or about 180-220 feet....just a guess. the tower's height is 640 feet.

From a never before seen angle:
http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/4070/518031220d3798552e1bhu8.jpg

^^ Looking great! :)

^ i really like the look of it from that angle... need to take another shot from there when its finished!

Yes, it's a great shot indeed. Thanks for the pics!

Pictures I took yesterday

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC00930.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC00931.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC00927.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC00933.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC00934.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC00935.jpg

Amazing! I love this building. It's so tastefully executed while still being supermodern looking!

Pic of Shangri-La from the office today (through dirty glass):

http://img364.imageshack.us/img364/9291/p6010331kt0.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC00931.jpg

The view of Shangri-la and the Ritz Carlton twisted tower from the Lions Gate Bridge. Note the towers should be a little taller. Ritz Carlton is located in front of the Shangri-la in this panorama.
http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/8602/futurevanrz7.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC00933.jpg

These aerials are about a month old, taken May 18th.


http://www.globalairphotos.com/images/bc/vancouver/2007/vch2007_276.jpg

http://www.globalairphotos.com/images/bc/vancouver/2007/vch2007_279.jpg

http://www.globalairphotos.com/images/bc/vancouver/2007/vch2007_278.jpg

http://www.globalairphotos.com/images/bc/vancouver/2007/vch2007_275.jpg

^^ Look great! I have a question... When I went there last year and saw so many newer condo towers are green glass. It is seen like almost everything green in Vancouver skyline. There are very fewer skyscrapers that got different glass colors than the rest of skyline. What's up with that?

I was informed by another forumer that the Vancouver Board enforces green, blue, or transparent in the belief that one can make a building invisible or blend in with the sea and sky. They believe that buildings aren't beautiful objects themselves, but must be concealed as much as possible so as to not be intrusive. It is one of the most moronic ideas I've ever heard of and am shocked that not only was it agreed upon, but it has been enforced for so many years.

You can't make a building invisible. This ridiculous restriction has resulted in a monotonous sterile cityscape. Beautiful, but not nearly as engaging as it could be. A condo that looks like the Seagram's building in New York would never be allowed, neither would an office building like Petronas. You don't have to like these 2 examples, but you get the point: when everything is the same it is monotonous, bland, and boring.

^ to some extent, that's quite true.

anyway, there have been rumours of a 50-storey building with wind turbines at the top and another massive office tower. The office tower is a sure thing and should be announced at the end of this year.

Awesome aerials!

I was informed by another forumer that the Vancouver Board enforces green, blue, or transparent in the belief that one can make a building invisible or blend in with the sea and sky. They believe that buildings aren't beautiful objects themselves, but must be concealed as much as possible so as to not be intrusive. It is one of the most moronic ideas I've ever heard of and am shocked that not only was it agreed upon, but it has been enforced for so many years.

You can't make a building invisible. This ridiculous restriction has resulted in a monotonous sterile cityscape. Beautiful, but not nearly as engaging as it could be. A condo that looks like the Seagram's building in New York would never be allowed, neither would an office building like Petronas. You don't have to like these 2 examples, but you get the point: when everything is the same it is monotonous, bland, and boring.

OMG! Seriously? Damn that is really lame! :ohno: I hope they will change their minds after these many skyscrapers get built and its look same. I like the way Vancouver is but need add more colors on its skyline to make it look very attractive than ever.

OMG! Seriously? Damn that is really lame! :ohno: I hope they will change their minds after these many skyscrapers get built and its look same. I like the way Vancouver is but need add more colors on its skyline to make it look very attractive than ever.

Larry Beasley, the city's urban planner for the metropolitan core, retired a few months ago. He's been around for decades, since Expo '86, and he was responsible for the policies and new urbanism trends Vancouver has invented.

Vancouver's new lead urban planner is Brent Toderian, quite young and previously worked with the City of Calgary. He's bringing in new approaches while also embracing those that Beasley has created. He thinks the height restrictions should be relaxed to a certain extent since they are hindering the city's economic growth. He also believes rules are too strict and are preventing architects from using their creativity. Read his article, it's really good:





Is Vancouver Still a City by Design?

By Brent Toderian, Direct of Planning for the City of Vancouver
29 March 2007 | http://www.planetizen.com/node/23462

Vancouver has earned many titles and nick-names on its way to becoming an international model of urban livability. One used frequently is the title “city by design”. The language of the title is deliberately specific, particularly the choice of the word “by”. A city by design is one that has taken public or civic responsibility for its physical development. A city that has embraced the value of design, both in the broad strokes and in the details, in the achievement of its public goals, be they livability, sustainability, civic beauty or economic success. Few cities can truly say they’ve done that, at least in the North American context where cities are often shaped by market forces and the profit imperative (or in many cases, sheer development momentum).

A city BY design

Vancouver is a city that has established a physical vision for its growth (meaning vertical growth, given that we are a centre city within a region), and is largely managing to see that vision realized despite pressures and obstacles. Whether you like the resulting City or not (and to my eye and ear, most do like it), it’s generally the City we’ve asked for, the one we had in mind. Its true there can always be foreseen or unforeseen consequences of our successes and failures. We’ve seen some consequences of success (for example, our dramatic affordability challenge driven by very strong demand), but I don’t believe, like some have suggested, that they diminish the successes themselves.

The city by design has been achieved through consistent will, over successive Councils, generations of staff leadership, and private sector partnerships. It has also been achieved through numerous visions, plans, policies, practices, tools and procedures that flow from the goal. Whether its skyline sculpting policies, view cones and other height restrictions (a controversial one, to this day, but one that took incredible will to establish and maintain), public realm guidelines, civic realm master plans, discretionary zoning and a development permitting system that regulates architecture, interactive design review, bodies like the Urban Design Panel and the Development Permit Board, or our basic hiring practices (which focus on in-house talented architectural staff to negotiate designs with applicant architects on a peer-to-peer basis), its clear that the “public interest” plays a powerful role in shaping market forces or preferences.

In my presentations and chats across the City since arriving here in Vancouver, I’ve been asking questions about our ‘city by design” tradition, and have encouraged constructive candour when individuals share their thoughts. This informal process has included chats with dozens of Vancouver architects, designers, city planners and developers on their observations, individually and in groups, as well as an informal dialogue I’ve initiated with the Architectural Institute of British Columbia Board on the issue of architectural “risk taking” in the City.

Some have suggested to me that City Hall sometimes goes too far in shaping the City. That some rules, guidelines or approaches are too prescriptive, too specific, instead of being open minded to better ways to address design aspirations. I’ve listened with an open mind, and have myself observed some examples of “Cadillac” guidelines that might warrant either a re-think, or at least a “squinty-eyed view” when it comes to interpretation. We should always maintain an open-mindedness that doesn’t let a rule stand in the way of a better city-building idea (although we might find ourselves disagreeing on whether an idea is in fact better).

I must say though, I’ve seen great examples of inventiveness and open-mindedness here at City Hall, where the rule book got set aside for a better idea. More examples than in other cities I’ve worked with across Canada, where I was often the one trying to get the better idea through. Some of our best projects have been the result.

Connected to this is an interesting city-wide debate out there on whether Vancouver architecture has started to look too similar. Why not more variety, more risk-taking, more “architectural adventure”? Are good ideas, or is exceptional design, somehow being stifled in this process? Some say yes, and we should take such a suggestion very seriously. Others though, have suggested that it isn’t City Hall stifling architectural risk taking. Given the strength of the real estate market, developers may not be inclined to “break the mould” with a new project (or hire an architect who would want to), even if city staff encourage more architectural individuality in new building design. Many architects have been candid enough to tell me an important secret - they count on city staff or the urban design panel to push their developer-clients in directions they can’t themselves get their clients to go.

Other possible reasons for the growing sameness may include the similarity of development type (its been mostly residential built over the last decade). Commercial buildings and civic buildings are usually the types more likely to break the mould, and we haven’t seen many of them recently). The speed of city building may also be a factor (usually development over slower time-frames leads to more variety as architectural styles evolve). Many perspectives, and I’ve appreciated hearing them all.

Having conducted my own “forensic investigations” by watching and listening throughout City Hall, I believe that despite some real examples of dated guidelines and occasional anecdotes about rigid interpretations by individuals, the Planning Department is indeed, generally, open minded to architectural risk-taking within the context of the key design relationships we expect (ie active street edge, etc). Where the necessary relationships end and the architectural expression and choice begins, is subjective to be sure. And we always expect the approach, innovative and “risky” or otherwise, to be well resolved. But if it is, we’ve often encouraged designers to take risks around building individuality.

Perhaps, as some have suggested, we haven’t pushed hard enough, or made the less-conventional process easy enough, particularly on some key sites within the city pattern that cry out for special buildings. These are suggestions I’ve taken seriously, and one need only come to one of my presentations around the city, or read the minutes of our more recent Development Permit Board meetings, to know that for key sites, I’m pushing for architectural experimentation more than ever have before. Word is spreading, and I’m starting to see the architectural community taking up the challenge.

It’s true that not every site warrants a building that screams for attention, and there is a strong role in background buildings in helping to frame the punctuation points and give them greater strength. But Vancouver seems ready for more punctuation points to give the city greater architectural identity. These points are where the fertile ground for risk taking may particularly exist. It may not be enough to just be known for a great pattern.

All of these questions, I believe, can and should be further developed within the context of a city by design. Let’s be clear – I’m a big fan of Vancouver’s city by design tradition. I believe Vancouver should indeed remain such a city, while rethinking some of its overly prescriptive rules or guidelines. More cities in North America should embrace this city-shaping objective, and show the will to make it happen. A city by design is a very good thing to be.

But what about a city OF design?

Given some of the observations above though, I wonder if a city by design is enough. There may be an opportunity to marry our tradition of public city-shaping, with the best aspects of the growing international “city OF design” movement. Once again the specific language is important. What cities of design exemplify (best illustrated perhaps in Canada by Montreal), is a culture of broad (sometimes messy, but usually provocative) design promotion and dialogue at the community and grass roots level.

Young global design cities such as Montreal, New York, Antwerp, Stockholm, Glasgow, Lisbon etc (as described exceptionally well by the Centre for Canadian Architecture in their book “New Design Cities”), illustrate a different kind of municipal leadership, in programs and polices that are less about city shaping by City Hall, and more about fostering wide-spread (often young) design talent (of all types – architecture and urban design, industrial, fashion, interior etc). This is often done through competitions, awards, promotion and other tools. It’s about a City embracing the architectural adventure and dialogue/debate, with the confidence that it will land eventually in every nook and cranny of the city as a result. It’s about encouraging risk taking and experimentation in design, creating a true design culture, and challenging everyone to step up.

Could Vancouver be considered a City OF Design in that global context? I’m not sure, at least not yet. Vancouver isn’t usually mentioned when such cities and cultures are discussed.

Rather than position this as an either-or debate about which approach is better, I’m truly excited about both. About layering a city of design, a broad culture of adventure and dialogue about design of all types, on top of the city by design we’ve so successfully produced. Is Vancouver ready for that? That’s what I want to hear from the public, and from the design community. It’s an interesting conversation.

It would take changing some thinking that stands in the way of one, while not throwing the baby with the bathwater when it comes to preserving the other. A challenge, to be sure, and a subjective discussion, absolutely. But I think, an exciting opportunity for us all.

OMG! Seriously? Damn that is really lame! :ohno: I hope they will change their minds after these many skyscrapers get built and its look same. I like the way Vancouver is but need add more colors on its skyline to make it look very attractive than ever.

Agreed. It would be great for Vancouver if this misguided regulation is thrown out, but we may have to wait many years or wait till those in charge retire or move along to some other jurisdiction they can wreck.

Agreed. It would be great for Vancouver if this misguided regulation is thrown out, but we may have to wait many years or wait till those in charge retire or move along to some other jurisdiction they can wreck.

Change is happening behind the public eye with our new head urban planner.

Wow! Thanks for showed me this article. Brent Toderian sounds like very wise city planner for the City of Vancouver. I am looking forward to see his works in Vancouver one day. I hope he will improve Vancouver skyline and citywide for the better.

Wow! Thanks for showed me this article. Brent Toderian sounds like very wise city planner for the City of Vancouver. I am looking forward to see his works in Vancouver one day. I hope he will improve Vancouver skyline and citywide for the better.

Change is starting to happen:
http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t290/vancouver_2007/mapp.jpg

Personally I think some fairly radical changes in thinking are needed in Vancouver, before it is too late. As it stands most of what has been built in the past decade looks eerily similar, both in height and in colour/material and in general design. It is desperately time to break out of that cookie-cutter mould and allow some creativity without all of the iron fisted "by design" criteria. The pale green/blue and transparent glass cladding has been carried to excess. Last time I was in Vancouver, about two years ago, it was shocking to me to see the uniformity.

Change is starting to happen:
http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t290/vancouver_2007/mapp.jpg

Interesting... Why decrease jobs in some part of Vancouver?

theres no denying Vancouver is Canada's most beautiful skyline. I love the view when you're driving back from the north shore on Lion's gate...stunning!! A couple supertalls would easily make it compete with Seattle or Chicago....always remember at least you don't have neurotic city councillors and NIMBYS like T.O. who reject tons of great proposals. Yup Torontos going nowhere.

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t290/vancouver_2007/Picture120-1.jpg

Pictures taken by SFU Vancouver:




Shangri-La Northeast corner.
http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/1595/shangrilaconstructionnepa6.jpg

Shangri-La Northwest corner.
http://img58.imageshack.us/img58/9616/shangrilaconstructionnwpe1.jpg

Shangri-La Southeast corner.
http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/5425/shangrilaconstructionsedk8.jpg

Shangri-La elevation.
http://img440.imageshack.us/img440/6358/shangrilaconstuctiontalxp7.jpg

Shangri-La hotel balcony edge details.
http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/5607/shangrilaedgedetailjunety2.jpg

Shangri-La hotel railing detail and dirty windows.
http://img440.imageshack.us/img440/4606/shangrilarailingdetailjqm8.jpg

Shangri-La podium.
http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/7176/shangrilaconstructionloot3.jpg

Thanks for this update!

An update from Monday:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC00977.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC00976.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC00975.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC00974.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC00973.jpg

Current status (courtesy of Phesto)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/georgiathurlo3di0.jpg

^^ Looking awesome! I love these fascades! Can't wait to see it top out! :)

the glass facade is nice....however the green blocks seem a lil...70's..are they for some structural reason or lighting purposes...nontheless..its growing and going to be an awsome addition to the skyline

Great skyscraper can't wait for it to be finished! Good job on keeping updated on the photos.

Hopefully on Van city's next build they will push the limits to about 80 stories. For now this is a great building, and its coming together quite fast!

It has been confirmed that the little coloured squares are also solar panels and they will light up at night and will have the same colour effect as they do in the day.

Anyhow, updated images by MichaelChampion (taken yesterday):
http://img222.imageshack.us/img222/729/picture017va1.jpg

http://img68.imageshack.us/img68/6236/picture018sb7.jpg

Very nice effect with the curtain wall. Going off topic but this building reminds me of the buttons of the Sony ericsson K810/850 with its unique colour sqaures/solar panels.

I believe its at floor 39 right now and floor number 40 will be completed by the end of this week.

The facade looks great!

Let me correct myself, the construction process is actually at level 35 and level 36 will be constructed by the end of the week.

I was just curious, will their be a observation deck for this building?

I was just curious, will their be a observation deck for this building?

nope, the top floor is a penthouse and the rooftop is a garden.

Save the observation deck for something reeeeealy tall. :)

By raggedy13:

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Construction/000_0042.jpg

http://s59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Construction/000_0045.jpg

http://s59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Construction/000_0047.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Construction/000_0050.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Construction/000_0052.jpg

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Construction/000_0053.jpg

Shangri-la, Ritz, Flatiron, Evergreen
http://s59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Construction/000_0054.jpg

Harbour Green 2 and Convention Centre
http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Construction/000_0055.jpg

Love the glass......Very nice.

So how many levels have been completed so far? Cause I can't get the accurate number by counting the floors.

37th I believe.

thankx

http://72.14.253.104/search?q=cache:smQNaap8j84J:www.planetizen.com/node/25756+vancouver+height+restriction&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=1&gl=ca&client=firefox-a

Vancouver is being forced to build higher because of growth of population in the downtown core and the core can no longer be built horizontally by adding several smaller buildings instead of just building one taller one.

Pics by SFU Vancouver:



http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/783/shangrilapeepingthroughgh9.jpg
Shangri-La is starting to nicely fill in downtown views – August 8th

http://img167.imageshack.us/img167/8164/shangrilanwelevation2aupb9.jpg
Shangri-La northwest elevation – August 8th

http://img245.imageshack.us/img245/9775/shangrilaseelevationaugkb8.jpg
Shangri-La southeast elevation – August 8th

http://img409.imageshack.us/img409/3443/shangrilaswelevationaugvd9.jpg
Shangri-La southwest elevation – August 8th

http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/5442/shangrilaconstructionwoec6.jpg
Fearless Shangri-La construction workers earning their pay – August 8th

Nice pictures, I really liked the view which made the building look like it was finally apart of the skyline. Also, I see that the 40th level is under construction, correct me if I'm wrong.

Looking nice...

Nice update thanks!

Beautiful building!

Lookin good. Gets me excited to know that we are getting something similar in T.O.

Picture updates from Flickr:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1217/1233074303_99137b1579_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1423/1251546610_3783c2b15b_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1238/1251548150_6376f286f6_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1350/1250690333_e1b477c0c5_o.jpg

Great updates!

It's looking better than in the renders, the glass is perfect.

I will be in Vancouver on Sept. 30 for a week. I'm really looking forward to exploring the city. What would the Vancouver residents suggest I see???
Also, I need a good sports bar to watch my beloved Wolverines play their game that Saturday...any suggestions??? Do they even show NCAA football games in Vancouver?

I will be in Vancouver on Sept. 30 for a week. I'm really looking forward to exploring the city. What would the Vancouver residents suggest I see???
Also, I need a good sports bar to watch my beloved Wolverines play their game that Saturday...any suggestions??? Do they even show NCAA football games in Vancouver?Ask in Skybar you'll get more repsonses. Nothing to do with the development. So random. :|

The glass is superb. Really unusual treatment. Looks like a big computer chip. :)

Thanks mr.x

...

I took some pics from yesterday. It looks as though Shangri-la is on the verge of eclipsing all buildings around it, and becoming the tallest building in the city.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC01091.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC01092.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC01095.jpg

Fantastic! :okay:

Some pictures from flickr


The Shangri-la is starting to pop over the skyline
http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t290/vancouver_2007/1264035423_00bb0a3657_b.jpg


http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t290/vancouver_2007/1210086249_69eb1d8f18_b.jpg


http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t290/vancouver_2007/1108017300_6a27d103fb_b.jpg

-- deleted by wjfox --

nice building :)

It seems that level 42 is under construction. So only 7 more levels to go for Shangri-la to become the building with the most floors in Vancouver. Also, by looking at the heights of other buildings I believe that the Shangri-la has topped over every building except: One Wall Centre, harbour Centre, and Shaw Tower.

Pics from today I took from my car while driving.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC01129.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC01134.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC01132.jpg

I risked my life for these next shots.
You can see Shangri-la rising in the middle of this picture
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC01124.jpg

And to the right of this one
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v643/vannmann/DSC01121.jpg

Pics from today I took from my car while driving.I risked my life for these next shots.

Vanman, you are crazy! Don't ever take pictures like that again... :ohno:

If something ever happened to you... you would give all skycraper enthusiasts a bad rep as being irrational, manaical, obsessive, compulsive, arrogant, unstable fetishists...

Oh wait... :ohno:

^^ Lol

Wicked.

Good news on the night-light facade, I personally think our skyline should become more like HK with the city AS beautiful as the surrounding natural environment.

Nice! Vancouver is the sex - I'll be there in less than 2 months!

Vanman, you are crazy! Don't ever take pictures like that again... :ohno:

If something ever happened to you... you would give all skycraper enthusiasts a bad rep as being irrational, manaical, obsessive, compulsive, arrogant, unstable fetishists...

Oh wait... :ohno:

LOL, I'm an idiot but I would do it again.

The Shangri-la is starting to pop over the skyline
http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t290/vancouver_2007/1264035423_00bb0a3657_b.jpg


http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t290/vancouver_2007/1210086249_69eb1d8f18_b.jpg


very nice views...looks dense from air and ground...:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

I love that last one. Summer sunsets are just amazing.

Vancouver is so beautifull!

WOW! Its looking good! :)

If the building is 196.9 meters tall then what harm is it to add 3.1 meters and make the building 200 meters and set it at that. I mean its so close to 200m and I don't think 3.1 meters can anyway make a difference in height restrictions. It just doesn't make sense. I want a better explanation.

^^ Why does that matter? Is it a nice round number thing? Does it make your skin crawl? :)

I'm just saying that buildings which are 200+ meters tall are in a class of their own and buildings which are by any means lower then 200 meters range in a much lower class. So why not add the 3.1 meters and make the building join the 200+ meter class.

It has been confirmed that the little coloured squares are also solar panels and they will light up at night and will have the same colour effect as they do in the day.

Great news! It just makes me like this project more!

If the building is 196.9 meters tall then what harm is it to add 3.1 meters and make the building 200 meters and set it at that. I mean its so close to 200m and I don't think 3.1 meters can anyway make a difference in height restrictions. It just doesn't make sense. I want a better explanation.

lol, its like FCP all over again.

If the building is 196.9 meters tall then what harm is it to add 3.1 meters and make the building 200 meters and set it at that. I mean its so close to 200m and I don't think 3.1 meters can anyway make a difference in height restrictions. It just doesn't make sense. I want a better explanation.

That's like 10 feet isn't it? Remember you're talking to a view cone frenzy city:
https://www.city.vancouver.bc.ca/commsvcs/views/viewcones/images/12_1_3_photo.jpg


ain't that ridiculous?

They should try testing the view cone by adding 3.1 meters when the building reaches 196.9 meters and see if they can add another level. It would be a bummer if they never even tried.

It would be nice to have a bit more photo updates...

Here's one photo update taken on Sept 7, from FLICKR:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1008/1344423534_624a00628f.jpg?v=0

http://flickr.com/photos/vacantready/1344423534/

thankx

West Georgia street flatiron elevation.
http://img61.imageshack.us/img61/1892/shangrilaconstructionweau0.jpg
Photo by SFUVancouver (SSP) / Vancouverite (SSC)

Alberni street elevation.
http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/4538/shangrilaconstructionaldv2.jpg
Photo by SFUVancouver (SSP) / Vancouverite (SSC)

Thurlough street elevation.
http://img65.imageshack.us/img65/6836/shangrilaconstructionthvv6.jpg
Photo by SFUVancouver (SSP) / Vancouverite (SSC)

Hotel balcony detail.
http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/2701/shangrilaconstructionhojh4.jpg
Photo by SFUVancouver (SSP) / Vancouverite (SSC)

Shangri-La from Coal Harbour (about 6 blocks away)
http://img133.imageshack.us/img133/9728/penderconstructionprecipl9.jpg
Photo by SFUVancouver (SSP) / Vancouverite (SSC)

Shangri-La from Coal Harbour (zoom)
http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/7124/shangrilafromcoalharbousu8.jpg
Photo by SFUVancouver (SSP) / Vancouverite (SSC)

Shangri-La's remaining penthouses aren't cheap. (To put this in perspective, the Canadian Dollar is currently worth about 95 cents U.S.)
http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/4453/shangrilapenthousepriceqi5.jpg
Photo by SFUVancouver (SSP) / Vancouverite (SSC)

Wow nic best update so far! Im guessing 5 more levels tell the shangri la overtakes the one wall centre.

Taken by phesto today:
http://img503.imageshack.us/img503/426/picture024bks7.jpg


By Delirium yesterday:
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y101/oct2gon/Picture341.jpg



Where the tower is, by raggedy13:
http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/493064.jpg

Wow 46 floors completed. This means only 3 more levels to surpass the title of 48 stories the One Wall centre holds.

[QUOTE=mr.x;15485627]Taken by phesto today:
http://img503.imageshack.us/img503/426/picture024bks7.jpg


This shot is defiantely the best shot of the Living Shangri la Ive seen by far! The size of the tower just looks monstrous from this view!

Photo from Flickr

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1205/1423627995_45774b476c.jpg?v=0

Another webcam shot

http://www.numinous.ca/images/webcam01.jpg

It's finally beginning to make it's mark.

Yes, and its now taller then every building except the Wall centre and Harbour centre and maybe the shaw tower.

Today

http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g296/raggedy13/Sept%2022%202007/100_9428.jpg

From Flickr, with around 16 floors to go and a 4-storey rooftop structure.
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y101/oct2gon/1423627995_e910631a9d_o.jpg




How it should look like when completed, photoshopped by bils:
http://www.bilsproductions.com/shangrilatopped.jpg

That is crazy tall....

...for Vancouver.

another photoshopped creation by bils:
http://www.bilsproductions.com/webcam01.jpg

nice

Imagine if the shangri la was built in the location of the one wall centre. Then imagine how tall it would be! Considering that the wall centre is constructed on the highest elevation point in downtown.

it's so tall already.. vancouver is gonna have one sick skyline

looks good!

finally something peeking out above that monotenous skyline of same height buildings!

The Shangri la looks like a supertall in that photoshopped picture although its not.

looks good!

finally something peeking out above that monotenous skyline of same height buildings!re: same height buildings - That's not true technically, but I know what you mean. First glance it does appear that way.

re: same height buildings - That's not true technically, but I know what you mean. First glance it does appear that way.

Actually its more like peeking out of a skyline of 25 story condos.

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/9460/shangrilapodiumsept28xc8.jpg

The podium is starting to come along. It will house an upscale Urban Fare grocery store, a public sculpture garden curated by the Vancouver Art Gallery, and an unnamed fine dining restaurant.

Image Source (http://lvl.verttech.com:8050/webcam3.htm)

A picture from flickr, may be a little outdated

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1041/1457223062_369b8eba24_b.jpg

Picture from Flickr. The Shangri La has basically out heighted every building in this shot.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1399/1465853746_07703d641d_b.jpg

wonderful skyline, want to visit vancouver :)

I want to go back to Vancover!

Those shot are brilliant. Hopefully one day I'll get to go back and see this personally.

I just talked to one of the construction workers working on the Shangri la and he told me that their is only 1 more level to be constructed for the Shangri la to be the tallest in the city.

It is at level 48 right now so with 1 more level it will be 49 levels thus making it the building with the most amount of floors in Vancouver. However, with one more floor added it will be taller then the Wall centre but it won't surpass the antenna on the Harbour Centre. It is estimated that once the building reaches level 53 then it will surpass the antenna on the Harbour Centre. Making it the tallest structure in Vancouver.

Can't wait for this to be finished! Such an awesome building! I guess it's Vancouver's (Or Canada's ;)) first 5-star hotel?

^^ no. the hazleton in Toronto is Canada's first five star.

^^ Then why are Ritz and Trump advertising as Toronto's first five-star?
Anyways, atleast it's Western Canada's first five-star.

Can't wait for this to be finished! Such an awesome building! I guess it's Vancouver's (Or Canada's ;)) first 5-star hotel?

we already have 5-star's in the city:

- Opus (Academy Award presenters have been given free luxury accommodations for the past 5 years as part of their gift basket)
- Wedgewood
- Four Seasons
- Mariott Pinnacle
- Pan Pacific Vancouver
- The Georgian Court
- Sutton Place Hotel
- Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
- Georgia Hotel (closed for 2010 renovations)

Future 5-stars:
- Ritz Carlton
- Shangri-la
- Fairmont Pacific Rim
- others as well, can't remember them all

Most of them don't advertise themselves as proper five-stars and they probably aren't. Most of them are like 4 or 4.5. Shangri-La looks like a REAL five-star. But I guess we'll find out when it's finished.

The Four Seasons in Toronto is not a 5 star because the building is 30 years old. What a disaster.

I hope our new one is rated 5 stars.

I too believe the Hazelton is the first 5 star in Toronto in quite some time. But as to it being the first in Canada , I don't have a clue.

Their aren't too many updates coming up because of the bad weather and all the rain. So I'm guessing we won't see another update for a while.

New pictures from today:

http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/741/picture027fh4.jpg

http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/3725/picture028byu3.jpg

http://img115.imageshack.us/img115/4517/60984914nz0.jpg{/IMG]

[IMG]http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/2179/picture029bsj3.jpg

http://img115.imageshack.us/img115/3737/picture030wg2.jpg

Pictures from Last weekend:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1226/1484248477_4f4fb618b3_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1089/1484267443_817b9d1a4b_o.jpg

Very very nice pictures :okay: