58 replies to this topic

[Nparker]

I have to admit this is a pretty classy, albeit overpriced, project. Perhaps not the best density for the site, but still a handsome addition to the neighbourhood.

[gumgum]

Not very interesting. But it's almost done anyway:







A couple of units actually have people living in them now:




It seems they're using Black Guard Cats for construction sites in James Bay...
Here's the one that was tickling my leg with her tail as I was taking pics:


Here's another one Holden West captured at Vicino, back in May.

[Holden West]

"Excessive Setback Cat" strikes again.

Are you sure those aren't display suites? How can they get an occupancy permit while construction is still going on? I noticed Shutters was like that too.

[gumgum]

^You might be right.

[Ms. B. Havin]

I think those THs are totally depressing-looking. Cheap. Boring brick and teeny-tiny windows. As for the soffits, don't get me started.... Those are ugly -- they look like vinyl siding soffits.

[Baro]

setbacks, low density, ugly cheap looking construction, unfriendly wall, unfriendly pricetags. Seems just what jamesbay wants.

[gumgum]

You can stamp this one "Completed".

[aastra]

If not for that view of the Reef, there'd be absolutely no reason for sitting out on those dreary back decks. There's so much cookie-cutter repetition and yet the building is only two stories tall!

So are we supposed to believe it's a good fit for James Bay? James Bay is all about architectural monotony? Or maybe James Bay is about expensive properties that don't look expensive?

They should have taken some design cues from Ansonia in the Arbutus neighbourhood of Vancouver:
http://www.emporis.c...l/im/?id=530554

[aastra]

Careful attention to lack of detail.

I've never seen a building work so hard to not distinguish itself.

[zoomer]

wow, that's bizarrely disgustingly bland, tacky and institutional all at the same time...

thanks for all the updates gumgum!!!!!

[Baro]

This is what james bay wants? This is what will save them from evil rental towers and solve the affordable housing problem? Good works james bay...

[Ms. B. Havin]

Look at this closely, and also consider the price tag on these units:



I would wonder whether that gap where the stone floor tile meets the building is indicative of the quality of the workmanship here?

[Baro]

That entrance looks like crap. There's zero excuse for boring design and bad workmanship.

[aastra]

Even if the neighbourhood all but demanded it?

[gumgum]

Here's some of the interior.

[Holden West]

Victoria condos are getting the spotlight today in the Globe's Friday real-estate feature:

ON SITE: VICTORIA
Town homes draw cross-continent commuters

THOMASINA BARNES
April 18, 2008

THE BREAKWATER

DEVELOPER: Three Point Properties

"The idea behind the Breakwater was to create a responsible development that fit into the surrounding neighbourhood," Mr. Brown says.

"This development has a low impact on the community. The height and timeless look help it to blend into what is already a beautiful neighbourhood."

[aastra]

... timeless look...

(barf)

[G-Man]

invisibility is always timeless.

[Mike K.]

In terms of things that need fixing, the development really is "timeless." That is because it literally took no time for the project to look weathered (note the details in the picture above).