Origami-Inspired Cardero: Vancouver's Iconic Mixed-Use Development

Origami-inspired Cardero project: Vancouver's new mixed-use development at the intersection of two city grids

Cardero is a new mixed-use development created by the Henriquez Partners Architects architectural studio that replaces an ageing office building with retail at grade, co-op office space, market residential, and public realm improvements. The project is located just two blocks from the Coal Harbour waterfront and responds to its location at the intersection of two city grids. It acknowledges its unique setting and takes advantage of connections to Vancouver's West End, Stanley Park, and central business district.

Unique architectural design

The building's formal expression is activated by the surrounding neighbourhood's context, which informed the facade and landscape design. The architectural sunshades on the residential tower's south and west facades are an iconic feature, lending both practicality and a unique identity to the building. The distinctive origami-like screens were inspired by the nautical surroundings – seagulls and seaplanes in Coal Harbour and the hang-gliders that can be seen catapulting off Grouse Mountain in the distance.

A mixed-use development

At West Georgia Street, the building comprises a slender 26-storey, mixed-use residential, office and retail tower. Along Pender Street, the scale of the tower drops to 21 storeys to respond to the character of the neighbouring buildings and a shift in the city grid. The tower sits atop a four-storey podium with at-grade retail and 45,000 ft2 of office space above. Designed to LEED-Gold standards, the project will also connect to a future neighbourhood district energy network. The tower's dual identity gives the building its unique form and reduces the overall structure's perceived mass.

Residential units with a view

The project provides 118 market residential housing units on 21 levels, with 60% suitable for families with children. The residential units were designed to frame Vancouver's water and mountain views and maximize usability for residents. Additional on-site amenities include multi-purpose spaces, a common roof deck and urban agricultural plots. The building provides a gateway and transitional space from Vancouver's North Shore to Downtown core and responds to its location at the intersection of two city grids.

In conclusion, Cardero is a unique mixed-use development that offers a new perspective on Vancouver's architectural design. Its origami-inspired screens, mixed-use concept, and residential units with a view make it a landmark project that acknowledges its unique setting and takes advantage of connections to Vancouver's West End, Stanley Park, and central business district.

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