The future of Calgary's 1970-built Palliser One (formerly One Palliser Square) has been a subject of discussion for several years, with much talk of a renovation in the works for the tower's facade. Rumours began a decade ago, the project finally coming to fruition just last year, with the strip-down of the current cladding having begun over the summer. Recent photos show that the installation of new materials has begun on the east side of the building.

view of new panels, image via Kevin Cappis

The 27-storey office tower, designed by A Dale & Associates in 1970, was for years one of the tallest towers in the city. Over the years, however, the tower has fallen into the shadows of other, newer taller buildings. This fact, combined with the tired state of its 50 year old exterior, inspired owner Aspen Properties to decide that it was time for a makeover. 

Images of what the re-clad will look like when completed, image via forum member Skyfire

The original concrete panels that make up the exterior cladding are being replaced by slim vertical metallic panels composed of a mix of light, medium, and dark shades of grey. The original placement of the windows will remain the same. With the rest of the building's east side still to do, and three more sides of the building after that, there is still plenty of progress yet to me made. 

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.