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Over the last few months, as work continues at 1134-1160 Memorial Drive, discussion on our Forum has centred upon one thing - the many layers, textures, and colours of cladding material now making their way across the facade. For while the timber-frame residential block by Anthem Properties and Rositch Hemphill Architects has made steady progress since our last update, it would seem, at least among our most dedicated readers, that there is much to be said of the aesthetic choices now on display.
One common refrain has been a sense of disappointment in the perceived low quality of materials. Of these, the numerous layers of vinyl siding, (above) and especially those made to imitate cedar (below), have been given the least favourable reviews. This is not to say all of our readers are on the same page, as there have been some who have defended the choice, stating that nicer finishes would have only resulted in higher unit prices.
Others still have pointed instead to the selective use of red brick (below) as evidence that some kind of happy medium has been obtained. To their credit, it is likely true that the choice of real bricks over yet more faux substitutes represents a wise move.
Where the highest degree of consensus appears to rest is upon the notion that perhaps a more subdued or at least colour-coordinated palette may have served to assuage the apparent lack of high quality materials. A simpler three-tone colour scheme, as suggested by one reader, would have perhaps brought less attention to the finer details.
Let us know what you think!
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.
