West vancouver, situated on the side of the Coast Mountains and with panoramic views across Howe Sound, has a lot to offer. With its many parks and public recreation facilities, it is a popular destination for families.
The district government is facing an unprecedented volume of building permit applications. As a result, the permit process is backlogged.
1. Aquila
Aquila, an infill development in West Vancouver’s Eagle Harbour neighbourhood, will occupy a 4.5-acre site that is framed by the CN Railway, Westport Road and Eagle Creek. It is proposed to become a 67-unit townhouse development that would provide homes in three and four bedroom formats.
The project’s developer, Sterling Pacific Developments, is aiming to create a diverse mix of smaller and more affordable housing options that will allow more families to live in West Vancouver. It’s designed by Formwerks Architects and will be a major departure from an earlier plan that was approved before the enactment of West Vancouver’s new official community plan (OCP).
Unlike the previous plan, this application has been carefully tailored to closely align with the OCP objectives of increased diversity in housing and expanding the “missing middle” housing stock in West vancouver. This re-zoning and development permit would also allow the project to follow sustainable building practices, which have never been seen in the area before.
In an effort to ensure the homes fit seamlessly into the context of the site, the design was custom-tailored to each home. The building’s architecture, exterior materials and landscaping were all meticulously thought out to be the best possible match for the site, while maintaining a high level of density that is essential in an infill development.
This re-zoning and development permit application is a rare opportunity to meet the OCP objectives of increasing diversity in housing options while having negligible negative impact on the surrounding neighborhood. The project is a unique blend of semi-detached and single family housing forms that will provide an excellent alternative to the large, expensive homes that are being developed in West vancouver at the moment.
The proposed development will be an ideal option for a wide range of households from young families and retirees to downsizers and those who have been priced out of the market due to price. The development will be built on a unique site that has only been previously replicated in the area of Eagle Harbour and is located within easy walking distance to beaches, marinas, forest trails and mountains.
2. West Royal Towers
West Royal Towers is a development application to redevelop the former White Spot site at Park Royal South. The proposal would see two residential towers – an East Tower with 14 storeys and a West Tower with 11 storeys – and a daycare space.
This mixed-use development will replace the shopping mall’s large ground-level parking lot with 201 new homes. In addition, there will be a new public plaza, pedestrian connections, landscaping and cycling supports. The project will also include a Cineplex theatre complex.
In terms of the housing mix, the development would include 141 market condominiums, 49 market rental apartments and 11 nonmarket supportive rental apartments. The development will also include a number of commercial spaces, including a two-storey 9,627-sq.-ft. commercial building on Squamish First Nation Land.
There will be a total of 254 underground parking spaces and 285 secured underground bike parking spaces. The building will also have a unique LED public art display, which will be installed on the building’s facade.
It will feature an Owners’ Club, a dramatic two-storey space with an exclusive amenities collection designed to elevate everyday living. The building is set to be a modern architectural landmark for the city, according to developer Bosa Development.
The building will be a “pioneering development” and an important landmark for the city, said Bosa Development president David Berg. It will “frame the gateway to West Vancouver and be a cornerstone of a vibrant, transit-oriented and mixed-use urban centre,” he said.
On the other hand, councillors who opposed the project raised concerns that it would be out of place and that residents in nearby residences would lose their views. They were also concerned that it wouldn’t offer affordable living options for the neighbourhood.
Despite these concerns, however, Coun. Mary Ann-Booth was one of the only councillors who voted in favour of the amended application. She pointed to the city’s housing affordability challenges and the need to build smaller condominiums, market rental homes and below-market rental units as solutions.
The amended application, which was submitted by RH Architects on behalf of Larco Investments, aims to build a new RM-3 tower. The proposed tower will be located between W 39th Street and the laneway to the south of W 37th Avenue, which will result in a lower FSR (floor space ratio).
3. Executive Park
West Vancouver is a highly sought-after community that combines the best of urban amenities with nature. This coveted enclave is home to a signature experience of top-tier schools, cultural opportunities and fabulous restaurants.
Executive Group, a Vancouver company that started with a hotel and has since diversified into hotels, restaurants, warehouses, office, retail and multiresidential spaces, is applying for a development permit to build 88 one-to-three-bedroom condos and townhomes in a new building called Executive on the Park. It will be located on Taylor Way and Marine Drive, a short walk from Park Royal Village shopping mall, the Capilano River and the Pacific Ocean seawall.
The eight-storey building will showcase 88 beautifully curated one to three-bedroom condo and townhome residences, ranging from 630 to 1,500 square feet. It will also include a few two-level “sky villas” that are a mix of a penthouse and a townhouse.
Floorplans are available in two colour schemes and the kitchens have integrated Fisher & Paykel appliances, quartz countertops, hardwood flooring and custom organizers built into walk-in closets. The oversized bathrooms feature free-standing tubs and custom vanities.
Tam says the development has a strong appeal to those who are looking for a luxury lifestyle that is focused on ease of living and well-being. Residents will have access to 24-concierge service, security and a 1,500-square-foot gym, plus social events such as wine tastings and cheese gatherings.
A high-end residential opportunity that rarely comes around, Executive on the Park is a rare and exclusive place to live in West Vancouver. Its one-to-three-bedroom homes combine a la carte services with sophisticated design and unwavering quality.
Located at the gateway to the District of West Vancouver, Executive on the Park is positioned at the northeast corner of Marine Drive and Taylor Way, a short walk from Park Royal Village and the Capilano River. It is surrounded by lush landscaping and an intimate parkette.
The project, a partnership between the District of West Vancouver and British Pacific Properties, is moving forward. The development will be a dense, high-density neighbourhood with transit connections, a mix of housing types and community amenities.
4. Dundarave Park
Dundarave Park is a charming neighbourhood that boasts some of the best views of Vancouver and the Lions Gate Bridge. It has plenty of space for walking, picnicking and playing, along with beautiful scenery. It is also an excellent location for viewing the Canada Day fireworks on July 1st each year.
The area is also home to several parks, including Centennial Seawalk, which is a great place to walk or ride your bike. It has lots of trees and benches for resting on, plus a playground and water play areas.
During the summer, you can take a dip in the 50-metre long beach, or walk along the cliffs for incredible views of Stanley Park and downtown Vancouver. It is also a great spot for sand play and watching the sunset on the water.
This 24 hectare (61 acre) waterfront park features duck ponds, a beach, pitch & putt golf, tennis courts and pavilions. It is a popular place for families, especially in the summer.
One of the most popular regional parks in the area, it has a spectacular view of the Capilano Suspension Bridge, as well as plenty of hiking trails. It is also home to several viewpoints and a large natural forest, as well as a lighthouse that guides ships into Vancouver harbour.
West vancouver development applications are often controversial, and some have been opposed by residents, groups, and local councillors. This is a good thing, as it gives people a chance to voice their opinion.
It also allows them to be consulted in the development process. There are many opportunities for community members to attend meetings, public hearings, and connect with the District directly.
If you have questions about a specific development application, contact the Planning Department at 855-354-6500 or email planning@wvmn.ca. They can also provide you with information about upcoming community events.
The District of West Vancouver is in the process of updating its Official Community Plan, or OCP. OCPs are critical tools in determining how growth impacts the quality of life in the community. They should set out policies on housing, transportation, economy, environment and social well-being. They should be implemented through zoning land use regulations and zoning maps that ensure the benefits of growth are met, while minimizing negative impacts.
Among many other things, David A. Grantham is a contributing author to UmassExtension West Vancouver Blo. He is a renowned expert on real estate in BC.
Born in North Vancouver, Louisiana, Dr. Grantham grew up in Lower Lonsdale. He then went on to complete his business degree at the University British Columbia. As of this writing, Grantham has completed over 100 projects, including the development of a high rise building in Vancouver.
He is a husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He was a dedicated outdoorsman and enjoyed sports such as hunting, fishing, scuba diving, and snow skiing. His wife, Alison Grantham, and their two daughters survived him. He is survived by his wife Alison Martin Grantham and two daughters.