Powell Loft + Office
Client · KRA
Location · Vancouver, BC, Canada
Completion · 2010
Architecture · KRA
Interior Design · KRA
Construction Management · Bon Constructors
Powell Loft and Office is located in a significant historic building over one hundred years old in Vancouver’s Japantown. The 6,000 ft² building was originally built as the Japanese Bank of Commerce.
In 2003 KRA and Bon Constructors purchased and revitalized the building using their combined expertise in architecture and construction. The building had been condemned following years of neglect and water damage, which required renovating the entire building to rehabilitate the original historic character.
The redesign contrasted the remarkable heritage features with a modern and minimal aesthetic that significantly contributes to the heritage neighbourhood.
The two-level building features a loft residence and boutique office/retail space. The interior space was designed as an open concept featuring 10’ ceilings making use of skylights to bring in light and create a feeling of freedom.
The upgrades consisted of life safety and a moderate amount of structural, seismic, and building envelope work. The finish palette is warm with custom millwork, custom lighting, exposed concrete walls, timber beams, and reclaimed butcher block floors with extensive windows and lightwells.
Photography by Andrew Latreille