^ Ignore that question mark on the datum, it might be a revit thing as something does look off with the digits, maybe some parameter was not working properly, the larger sections and elevations seem to show those properly.
Looking at the facade enlarged elevations, I can see that there looks to be some sort of articulation of using some angular formed cladding bands between the glazing, maybe to break up the enormous expanse of the total elevation. I would wager maybe, some kind of formed metal panels with curtainwalls complemented by terra cotta cladding for the solid bits at the podium. I thought I also read T/O LIGHTBOX for the residential towers, I am curious to see what that looks like. I'd also bet that Gensler is the design architect and Lemay the interior design while GGA does the local record keeping and stamping for the construction documents.
Rest assured expect further submissions for revised DP on something like this which will eventually show renders and full elevations etc. The shadowing diagram does show a bit of what the mass of the towers will look like, at 30x30m square floorplates for the residentials I really hope it isn't littered with tacked on balconies or excessively 'slabby' profiles like seen at Guardian and many condos in Toronto.
This DP seemed to be curated to cover the work scope involving the salvage and restoration of the heritage buildings, which will be a fairly careful process so it is good to get that part into the city first while more time is then set aside to get the rest of the new build properly DD'ed and then sent in again with a full gamut of renders, materials which I hope will show genuinely thoughtful efforts in the design with creative solutions for many of the interfaces between old and new..
I would of liked to see some public art somewhere or a winter garden for the users of this office/residentials & (notice a Hotel option too!) which would of become truly a destination in the heart of Downtown, as well larger light portals to 7th ave as one of you guys mentioned above. There does appear to be enough of a setback from the 8ave heritage buildings so that the new build doesn't over power as much and I see an expansive rooftop patio which could be some kind of common amenity.
The Density FAR is maxed out as expected and total sq. footage looks to be nearing 2 mills sq.ft so this project is bringing back some of the 2006, 2012 vibes.
I also see some issues with the truck loading access, proposed looks a little complicated and will demand excessively skilled driving to enter into the loading dock with a series of tight 90 deg turns, I forsee questions being raised about the simulations done and that will need refining. Lastly, traffic will be a nightmare in this area unless they get rid of streetside parking or put some directional signs/barriers to restrict only to right hand turns or something.
Overall, think I have no choice but to continue checking this thread throughout this year as news of this project develops further. Toronto, Vancity, Montreal have been roaring with new towers as demand is very strong over there, I hope office spaces begin to lease out again in yyc too.
