The structures of Vancouver, Coast & Mountains are bound to impress even the savviest of architecture and engineering enthusiasts. Take in an up-close view of the mighty Fraser River while standing above its narrowest point on the Hell's Gate Suspension Bridge. Marvel at one of the world's most incredible spans of railway, the Othello Tunnels. Learn about the complexities of the creation of power on a visit to the Powerhouse at Stave Falls in Mission. Or cross the nerve-wrackingly shaky Capilano Suspension Bridge. In Vancouver, tour notable buildings from all eras and styles, including the Museum of Anthropology, Vancouver Library Square, the Marine Building, Canada Place, and Gastown, the city's first neighbourhood.
Vancouver Library Square
Designed by Moshe Safdie and Associates with Downs Archambault and Partners, the Vancouver Library Square became an instant landmark upon its completion in 1995.
The largest capital project ever undertaken by the city, the square contains Vancouver's Central Library (public), a federal government office tower as well as retail shops and services. It occupies a complete city block.
The seven-storey, rectangular-box structure houses book stacks and library services. This is surrounded by a free-standing elliptical wall which features reading areas accessible by bridges. The roof of the library serves as a large, public garden.
The glass-roofed concourse serves as an entry foyer. Here, visitors will find lots of pedestrian activity, shops and eateries.
Vancouver Library Square is located just southeast of the downtown core, within easy walking distance.
> Vancouver Library website.
Marine Building
Once the tallest building in the British Empire, the 1930 Marine Building is an internationally acclaimed Art Deco structure.
Envisioned by Lt. Commander J.W. Hobbs, who dreamed of a New York-style skyscraper in Vancouver, the building serves as a testament to the city's maritime influences. The firm of McCarter and Nairne brought Hobbs' vision to life.
Its main lobby employs a ship's prow as lighting, while a frieze of waves and sea creatures wraps around the building's fronts. Green-and blue-tiled walls confirm the ocean's influence on the project.
The Marine Building is located near downtown Vancouver's waterfront.
Gastown
The historic district of Gastown is Vancouver's oldest neighbourhood. Still as colourful as ever, it is a favourite destination of tourists.
A daytime stroll down its cobblestone streets reveals artist studios, designers' shops, First Nations' galleries and antique stores in refurbished heritage buildings. Gastown is also home to the world's first steam-powered clock, now one of the city's most photographed attractions.
Gastown's structures share a common Late Victorian and Edwardian commercial vernacular indicative of the region's development in the late 19th century. Visitors are encouraged to check out the old Canadian Pacific Railway Station of 1912 for a tangible example of the decorative tastes of the time.
Gastown is within easy walking distance of downtown Vancouver.
Set aside at least an hour or two to visit Gastown and be mindful of the fact that the area, while very safe, is partially located in a more graphic part of the city.
> Gastown website.