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SOMA - 7777 Cambie Street, a vibrant and dynamic presence

GBL Architects

Housing  /  Completed
GBL Architects

The SOMA project, aligns with Vancouver's urban vision, blending seamlessly with densification goals along the Cambie Street Corridor, a pivotal transit artery. Despite strict parameters favoring 4 to 3 storey structures with upper-level setbacks, SOMA challenges this norm by revealing its full building height at the intersection corner. Through a series of simple gestures, SOMA manipulates the massing to creatively conceal the prescribed built form guidelines, injecting the neighborhood with a vibrant and dynamic presence, while still adhering to the overarching urban design guidelines.

SOMA strategically anchors the corner of the block, creating a distinct architectural bookend. At this pivotal intersection, SOMA introduces a welcoming bench nestled within its landscape, inviting pedestrians to pause and interact with the vibrant streetscape. This corner building, with its monolithic presence and dramatic six-storey brick elevation, not only serves as a visual landmark but also establishes a sense of place, effectively framing the block and enhancing the overall urban experience. By integrating such elements, SOMA fosters community engagement and contributes to the cohesive fabric of the neighborhood, reinforcing its identity as a dynamic and livable urban enclave.

SOMA implements a range of sustainability strategies to minimize environmental impact and enhance occupant comfort. With a low window-to-wall ratio and continuous exterior insulation, heat loss is reduced while maximizing natural daylighting. An energy recovery ventilation system efficiently exchanges indoor and outdoor air, maintaining high indoor air quality while minimizing energy consumption. Additionally, box-like frames protruding from window openings mitigate excessive heat gain during summer months, along the south and west elevations.

Our project stands as an exemplar of innovative urban design, boasting a host of strengths and defining characteristics that set it apart in the contemporary architectural landscape. Spanning 2,600 m2 along Vancouver's prominent Cambie Street, SOMA embodies the city's vision for sustainable, high-density development while redefining conventional architectural norms. One of SOMA's primary strengths lies in its strategic response to the city's urban context. Situated along a major transit corridor, SOMA serves as a catalyst for urban vitality, fostering pedestrian activity and contributing to the livability of the surrounding neighborhood. Its carefully considered design integrates seamlessly with the existing urban fabric, establishing a dialogue with neighboring structures while introducing a fresh, dynamic presence to the streetscape.

Central to SOMA's identity is its departure from traditional architectural typologies. In defiance of prescriptive design constraints, SOMA challenges the notion of standardized density and form, opting instead for a fluid, monolithic expression with simple architectural gestures.

SOMA represents a landmark in Vancouver's urban landscape, blending modernity with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Its strategic location serves as a nexus, seamlessly connecting residents to key destinations such as the airport, downtown core, and University of British Columbia, ensuring convenience and accessibility. Moreover, SOMA's proximity to lush parks and trails offers residents the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature, promoting a balanced lifestyle.

Credits

 Vancouver
 Canada
 SDAE Development
 Multifamily Housing
 01/2021
 2600 sq. m
  10,225,600.00 €
 GBL Architects
 Daniel Eisenberg, Jason Dong, Richard Gunderson, Meggie Tian
 Kindred Construction
 Glotman Simpson, Nemetz and associates, Reinbold Engineering, i3 Design, Topographics Landscape Architects
 Upper Left Photography

Curriculum

GBL Architects is a Vancouver-based architectural firm specializing in mixed-use commercial, market, and non-market residential projects, along with multi-phased master-planned communities. Our approach emphasizes the enduring impact of design, blending sculptural artistry with social responsibility to create dynamic and surprising experiences. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, GBL Architects Inc. delivers leading-edge solutions that shape the built environment for the future.


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