Haeccity Studio Architecture, a Vancouver-based practice, recently completed a major revitalization of a 3-story, wood-framed 1920s character building that accommodates 19 rental units. The historic building located at 2930 Cambie Street maintains its modest yet engaging street presence along the Cambie Corridor, one of the city?s major arterial routes.
Photography: Krista Jahnke
?We wanted to give new life to an old building, while simultaneously honoring its previous contribution to the city,? explains Travis Hanks, Haeccity Principal, ?At a time when buildings are disappearing along the Cambie Corridor, we had an opportunity to ensure these homes would flourish into a new era.?

The project involved a comprehensive upgrade of all systems and interiors, including a more effective suite layout that resulted in an additional 5 units and new shared amenity spaces. All the units were updated to align with contemporary lifestyles, complete with modern fixtures and built-ins. Photography: Krista Jahnke
For nearly 100 years, passersby on Cambie could look through a celebrated front entry to a stair leading directly to upper levels. This common Vancouver feature, however, poses a number of serious challenges in terms of egress, accessibility, and life safety. To extend the building?s life, a solution emerged in the form of a clearly demarcated ?insertion? into the character structure, a new modern stair, and lobby that stood in clear distinction to its heritage context. Turning o...