ÅVONTUURA is excited to announce the launch of its Architecture Guide to Vancouver; the 19th guide in its ground-breaking Wandering Series.
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, Vancouver is a city defined by its connection to nature and its innovative spirit. From its beginnings as a logging outpost in the late 19th century, Vancouver’s architecture has evolved alongside its economic and cultural growth. Its architectural landscape reflects a blend of historical charm, modernist innovation, and a forward-thinking vision for sustainability and urban design.
The city’s traditional architecture preserves its early 20th-century character. The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, a grand railway hotel in the Château style, stands as a testament to Canada’s rail-driven expansion. In Gastown, iconic heritage buildings like the Dominion Building and the Sun Tower offer a glimpse into Vancouver’s early days, combining Beaux-Arts elegance with the bold ambition of a city on the rise.
Modern architecture in Vancouver owes much to the visionary work of Arthur Erickson, who left an indelible mark on the city. His designs, including Simon Fraser University, set atop Burnaby Mountain, embody his philosophy of integrating structures with the natural environment. Other modern landmarks include Moshe Safdie’s Vancouver Central Library, an architectural centerpiece inspired by the Roman Colosseum, which redefined the concept of public space in the city.
Vancouver’s contemporary architecture is equally remarkable. The sculptural Vancouver House by Bjarke Ingels Group twists dramatically over its base while Alberni by Kengo Kuma, with its intricate wood-inspired design, celebrates the city’s ties to nature and Japanese culture. The upcoming Sen̓áḵw Development—a revolutionary Indigenous-led urban community—signals an exciting shared future for the city.
A must-visit destination for architecture enthusiasts and scholars, UBC (The University of British Columbia) showcases some of Canada’s most celebrated architectural achievements. The Museum of Anthropology (cover), designed by Arthur Erickson, is a masterpiece of West Coast Modernism, reflecting Indigenous cultures and the surrounding environment with its soaring concrete frames and expansive glass walls. Brock Commons Tallwood House, one of the world’s tallest mass timber buildings, exemplifies sustainable innovation in construction. The dynamic Pharmaceutical Sciences Building, with its bold, geometric façade and striking use of glass and steel, creates a vibrant hub of learning and research. Meanwhile, the recently completed Arts Student Centre adds a fresh, contemporary edge to the campus with its inviting, light-filled spaces. UBC’s architectural diversity makes it a captivating experience for anyone passionate about design, sustainability, and cutting-edge building techniques.
Beyond Vancouver, notable works include the Seabird Island School, the Audain Art Museum, and the Yasodhara Ashram by Patkau Architects, each harmonizing with their stunning natural surroundings.
This thoroughly researched architecture guide is a must-have for architecture enthusiasts of all ages. It makes travel planning effortless and boasts an up-to-date curated list of buildings not found anywhere else; the perfect pocket-companion for your next trip abroad.
Buyer note: Please be advised that the New Vancouver Art Gallery project by Herzog & de Meuron, which is included in this guide, was cancelled on 3 December 2024. Unfortunately, this news came after our Architecture Guide to Vancouver went out for printing. ÅVONTUURA does its best to include all up-and-coming projects in their guides to ensure our users have the most-up-to-date guides as possible.
Features
1. The cover features a unique architectural icon that celebrates a local project and is illustrated as a wandering path, capturing the joy of architecture and discovery.
Cover Illustration: Museum of Anthropology by Arthur Erickson
2. A map identifying the general locations of the buildings, major and medium-sized road networks,
urban areas, watersheds, parks and other natural features.
3. A Recommended Route identifying a must-see network of buildings and landmarks, with dashed
lines indicating routes for contemporary, modern and historical interests.
4. A Legend of selected architectural projects featuring beautifully detailed building icons, the name of
the architect(s) / designers involved, and an address for where it can be found.
5. QR code connecting you to our digital guide with pinned locations and directions in Google Maps.
