The first glimpse of spandrel and glass has appeared at the base of The Hat at 7th Ave since the time of our last update in May. One of several "Hat" developments by Cidex Group and NORR Architects, The Hat at 7th Ave has been rising swiftly, its cladding work just now beginning to catch up. 

The Hat at 7th Ave, first glimpse of glass, image by Forum contributor MichaelS

Located in the rapidly-changing Downtown West End at the corner of 10 St SW and 7 Ave SW, adjacent to the West Kerby CTrain station, and close by to Shaw Millennium Park, the Bow River, and Beltline, The Hat at 7th Ave is sublimely situated for urban professionals. At just 12 storeys, however, and with only 66 units available, an address at The Hat at 7th Ave will be something of a rare commodity. 

The Hat at 7th Ave, glass and spandrel close-up view, image by Forum contributor MichaelS

Similar to commentary on its sister development - The Hat - the current tower has been marked by critics for what has broadly been perceived as a strong over-reliance upon spandrel in lieu of windows. If early indications are anything to go on, such concerns appear to be warranted, the first bit of cladding looking to be heavy on the spandrel side. 

The Hat at 7th Ave, as it will appear upon completion, image via Cidex Group

This being said, The Hat at 7th Ave will be made relatively lively thanks to the decision to accent the otherwise grey, polished cement exterior finish with decorative yellow and blue glass panels. These, in addition to the coloured spandrel will create a four-tone colour scheme, which, on balance looks like it will serve the structure well. 

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. 

Related Companies:  NORR Architects & Engineers Limited