RANDOM MODERNIST BUILDING

Sometimes a building that you see stays in your imagination. This happened recently during a visit to Vancouver. While riding bicycles around the city, we happened to ride past this random modernist pavilion which was on the harbor. We have addressed the topic of slamming on the brakes when you see something that you like. Slamming on the brakes on a bicycle is much easier and safer than slamming on the brakes in a car.

So after rounding the corner and then continuing around the harbor, the little voice in my head said, “did I just see what I think I saw?” Turning around, indeed it was worth stopping for.

The building is simply a modernist masterpiece. And one that is not in any of the architectural history books. But it could be. It is a great example of early 1930’s Bauhaus inspired design. And it is done so very well.

There is a linear reflecting pool which is on axis with the centerline of the building. There are overhangs with circular cutouts. The massing has a play between strong horizontal lines and vertical elements. It feels like it is floating, or a least gently resting on the site. The entry is clearly noted. Some of the corners are glass to glass connections. The horizontal planes appear to float.  I could go on and on.

I did my drawing the next morning from the photos I took. And I just tried to find the name of the building complex so as to find the name of the architect. While I am sure that I could find this out, I gave up after a few minutes.
This building captured my imagination when I saw it. And I still think about it.