Forum contributor Daveography attended an open house last week that revealed some changes to a proposal for a new apartment tower at 106 Street and 103 Avenue. Lamb Development and architectsAlliance, a prolific developer and architect duo in Toronto, unveiled plans for a 45-storey downtown highrise called North a few years ago. The state of the economy had served to sow doubt about the viability of the project, but a public consultation for the proposed rezoning is a definite positive sign of progress.

A presentation board shows the development in full, image by Forum contributor Daveography

The rezoning application had originally outlined plans for a 45-storey tower of about 145 metres. A revised application now details a reduction in height to 40 storeys and a maximum of 126 metres. The renderings show the diminished scale of the tower, but the large commercial podium remains much the same. The development would replace a surface parking lot and contain roughly 350 residences of about 500 to 1,000 square feet, with interior and exterior amenities situated on the fifth floor.

A rendering of the development's base, image by Forum contributor Daveography

In addition to large boards showcasing artistic illustrations, elevation sketches, shadow studies, zoning information, and floor plans, attendees were invited to leave their feedback on forms, sticky notes, or through City staff. The project is about four to six years away from becoming a reality, if the application is approved. 

A closer look at North's proposed commercial component, image by Forum contributor Daveography

Lamb's Jasper House development is a little further along. Having already received rezoning, and with a development application being assembled, Lamb is hoping to begin construction this year. Both towers would be significant additions to the downtown landscape. Any increased allotment of housing in the core is seen as a net benefit by the City, which has recognized the impact an influx of residents can have on the cultural, social, and economic health of Edmonton.

Jasper House, image via architectsAlliance

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