Just days after Council signalled their approval of a multi-building development in Old Strathcona, another project in the neighbourhood promises to test residents' comfort levels with height even more. An open house on Wednesday illustrated a highrise tower at the site of the Wild Earth Bakery and Cafe at 99 Street NW and 89 Avenue NW, a dramatic difference from the current zoning allowance of four storeys.

The well-attended open house gave the public their first look at the project, image by Forum contributor Daveography

ONE Properties, in partnership with Bateman Properties, is proposing a change in zoning and an amendment to the Strathcona Area Redevelopment Plan to permit a tower up to 240 units, 31 storeys, and 95 metres. Attended by Forum contributor Daveography, the open house provided an overview of the proposed site plan outlining more specific details of the ask: a 26-storey tower situated above a commercial podium; five ground-oriented townhomes fronting 89 Avenue; 211 studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom units in the residential tower; and 244 underground and 12 surface parking spaces.

New renderings are presented at the open house, image by Forum contributor Daveography

Another presentation board relays some of the planning principles in play, mostly related to the provision of pedestrian-oriented streetscapes, active commercial frontages, and respecting the character of the neighbourhood. The DIALOG-designed project is fairly slim for its size — a setback reduces the visual heft of the massing while minimizing shadowing impacts. The illustrations made mention of public realm enhancements, primarily accomplished through architecture, greenery, and lighting, with "quality materials" appearing to exhibit a mix of brick and glass.

Renderings suggest a warmer tone to the corner materials, image by Forum contributor Daveography

Bateman Properties owns the land currently occupied by the popular bakery and cafe, which was a Bateman's Food Market upon opening in 1957. The family behind the company operated a chain of grocery stores under the banner of Bateman Foods until 2011, but the granddaughter of founder Weldon C. "Tubby" Bateman continues to manage Wild Earth Bakery and Cafe alongside Wild Earth Foods.

Proposed site plan, image by Forum contributor Daveography

Additional images and information can be found in the Database file linked below. More illustrations from the open house have been posted in the Forum thread. Want to get involved in the discussion or share your photos? Leave a comment at the bottom of this page.