Arbutus Oakridge Modern Rental Tower | Vancouver BC | Arno Matis Architecture
Arbutus Oakridge Rental Tower, Modern Architecture Design, Vancouver, Canada, Arno Matis Architecture

The Arbutus

Inspired by the Arbutus’ distinctive red peeling bark, this project features dramatic curves that seemingly peel away from the building

LOCATION: OAKRIDGE, VANCOUVER, BC TYPE: RESIDENTIAL RENTAL SIZE: 120,000 SF FSR:7.14 STATUS: REZONING
Arbutus Oakridge Rental Tower, Modern Architecture Design, Vancouver, Canada, Arno Matis Architecture

Located on W41st near the Oakridge Skytrain station, this rental 100 project draws inspiration from the unique properties that once defined the Coast Salish land. Specifically, the west coast‘s most distinctive and unique tree: the arbutus tree.

Identified by its beautiful, distinctive red peeling bark, this proposal features dramatic metal curves that seemingly peel away from the building, bending to provide views, increased livability, and passive shading.


While rooted in history, the architectural expression of the project is forward-looking, utilizing contemporary geometries, materials, and building systems.

BUILDING TRANSPARENCY–PERFORATED
METAL SKIN

An important theme in the architectural expression of the building is transparency. This approach emphasizes the expression of lightness and the penetration of light through the structure and perforated metal building skin. In this way, the building could read solid or light depending on lighting conditions and time of day.

SUSTAINABLE SYSTEMS -
HIGH-EFFICIENCY PUNCHED WINDOW SYSTEM

The project proposes a punched window expression and detail to reduce thermal bridging. Window frames are proposed in thermally broken metal with high-efficiency insulated glass units.

The color proposed for the metal cladding is champagne metallic or white gold to bring a warm, more natural colouring to the project.