Design plans released for 901 West Broadway hotel, Vancouver

The design showcases innovation and adaptability, addressing complex site dynamics while prioritizing public engagement. Situated at the intersection of West Broadway and Laurel St., the 12-storey tower will feature 151 guest rooms and a three-level parking garage. The design, refined through thorough consultations, addresses the city’s input and site challenges such as restricted car access, proximity to a subway station and flight path considerations.

The hotel’s standout design feature is a gradated facade merging with a brick-laced podium, echoing Broadway’s historic architecture. Large offset panels create a shimmering effect, accentuated by a brushed metal panel system. Each side of the facade maximizes views and light exposure. Inside, floor-to-ceiling windows offer guests expansive city views. In response to city feedback, rooftop amenity terraces were added, designed with the appearance of them being carved out of the building to enhance the western edge. Further, since the hotel is located on the flight path of the nearby Vancouver General Hospital, mechanical and electrical systems were strategically relocated to accommodate its flight path, ensuring future flexibility for rooftop amenities.

Rendering of a cityscape at dusk with a distinct patterned building and streaks of traffic lights. Zeidler incorporated rooftop amenity terraces that appear as though they are carved out of the building. The project is uniquely set on a site that sits on a steep slope along Laurel St., resulting in a building that appears as though it is 11 storeys on one side and 12 storeys on the other. To optimize efforts to activate the public realm and respond to a no-build zone due to city service connections, Zeidler introduced the lobby entrance and a café patio on the upper level, and a porte-cochère and car entrance one level lower.

“We are thrilled to be working with Hallmark Hospitality on a hotel project that will contribute to the transformation of the Broadway corridor in Vancouver and provide much-needed hotel rooms for the city,” says James Brown, partner, Zeidler Architecture. “The site came with multiple restrictions, and it was up to our team to develop innovative design solutions in partnership with the city. From the outset, we approached the design as an opportunity to provide an exceptional experience for guests and pedestrians alike, which has ultimately resulted in a better building,” Brown adds.