Upon first glance, the Paris Block and Annex by Gair Williamson Architects and Ankenman Marchand Architects may look like new additions to West Hastings Street, Vancouver.
Photo courtesy of Ed White / Gair Williamson Architects
However, once you examine the brick on the side of the Block, you’ll notice a different story. First established in 1907, the Paris Block housed Pierre Paris & Sons, a family business that specialized in the manufacturing of logging boots and shoe retailer.
Photo courtesy of Ed White / Gair Williamson Architects
In 2008 the Block underwent extensive renovations, thus becoming a residential building with retail at grade, keeping with its ‘living over the shop’ historical background. Beside it, was built a younger brother of sorts, the Paris Annex — the two being fused together, sharing common hallways, stairs and foyer.
Photo courtesy of Ed White / Gair Williamson Architects
As such, residents are privy to the literal experience of “walking through time”, as the entrance to the newer Annex is through the historic structure.
Photo courtesy of Ed White / Gair Williamson Architects
Unit 303 of the Paris Block offers a study, library, commercial kitchen, bedroom/gallery and lounge, with a 12’ dining bar. At 702 square feet, Unit 303 was designed as a prototype for the new standard for inner city dwelling.
Photo courtesy of Ed White / Gair Williamson Architects
As the Murphy bed are tucked away into the wall, 303 has the ability to moonlight as a gallery, or as an event venue. It functions as a live-work space for Vancouver artists, with storage space to boot – Unit 303 has 3 times the storage volume of standard condominiums and a luxurious 10’ shower in the bathroom.
Photo courtesy of Ed White / Gair Williamson Architects
We are living in a time where inner-city densification is increasing, as is the price-to-space ratio. As such, the units in the Paris Block and Annex are an excellent example of maximizing livability in smaller city spaces. Moreover, they are a great showcase of how live/work spaces in urban centres help retain the city’s vitality, while simultaneously serving multiple needs and uses in the context of a contemporary urban city.
Photo courtesy of Ed White / Gair Williamson Architects
Check out the rest of the impressive portfolio at Gair Williamson Architects.
Researched and Written by Charmaine Cheng, Architectural Technology, Centennial College
