A month since our last update, and Strategic Group's Marda has continued its ascent, the timber-framed upper floors now being built atop the podium level retail base. Located in South Calgary, at 34 Ave SW and 20 St SW, the 66-unit mixed-use development will soon deliver up to 100 new residents to the area. 

Marda, timber construction underway, image by Forum contributor 1875

A long-awaited project for Marda Loop, owing to months of delays, the 6-storey mid-rise development will be the first purpose-built rental project in the area. The majority of the structure features timber frame construction, a fact that will more than likely result in a quick ascent. 

Retail base, as it will appear upon completion, image via NORR Architects

Situated close to the bustling 33 Ave SW corridor, home to a collection of restaurants, cafes, and shops, the addition of 9,000 square feet of additional commercial space will inject a further boost of pedestrian vibrancy to the neighbourhood. Designed by NORR Architects, the project will feature a mix of exterior volumes and decorative flourishes, including the black framing and "MARDA" logo, which will sit atop the wood-topped retail base. 

Marda, as it will appear upon completion, image via NORR Architects

Once complete, Marda will represent a another big step in the area's ongoing urban transformation. Long the site of a small retail strip supported by a vast swath of single family homes, the area is on track to become much denser and livelier as more and more projects of this scale continue to arrive. 

SkyriseCalgary will be sure to return to this project as progress continues. For more information, check out the associated Database file and Forum thread, and as always, feel free to join the conversation in the comments section below.