Amelia HallAlright, architecture admirers, let’s talk about the jaw-dropping Art Deco buildings in Vancouver.
But first, what exactly makes a building Art Deco? Well, it’s all about those eye-catching features like geometric patterns, sleek lines, and decorative motifs that give off major Great Gatsby vibes.
Also, look for stepped-back designs, materials like terracotta, metal, and glass, plus all those fancy embellishments and stylized details.
Now, for all you architecture buffs out there (and anyone else who just loves a good-looking building), we’ve rounded up some of the absolute best examples of Art Deco architecture in Vancouver. Trust us, you won’t want to miss this!
- The Marine Building
- Vancouver City Hall
- St. James Church
- Burrard Bridge
- The Vogue Theatre
- The Hollywood Theatre
- The Commodore Ballroom
- Gotham Steakhouse
- Georgia Medical Dental Building
- Granville Street Power Block
- The Burrard Building
- The Orpheum Theatre
- West End Apartments
- Davie Street
- The Queen Charlotte
- Sinclair Centre
- The Murrin Substation
The Marine Building
– Media credit: atlasobscura
Type: Landmark Skyscraper
Location: 355 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2G8, Canada
Contact number: 604-893-3248
Hours:
- Closed from Saturday to Sunday
- Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 5 PM
Sure, Vancouver isn’t exactly overflowing with Art Deco buildings like some cities, but when it comes to starting the conversation, the Marine Building takes the cake, literally.
The Marine Building is famous for its wedding cake icing exterior and maritime-themed details, like those adorable sea creature reliefs at the entrance. It’s definitely a sight to behold, even among all the taller, shinier buildings around it.
Back in 1930, right on the brink of the Great Depression, architects McCarter and Nairne had a vision: to create a building that looked like a majestic crag rising from the sea, adorned with sea-green hues and touches of gold. And boy, did they deliver.
Standing tall at 355 West Hastings, The Marine Building cost a whopping $2.3 million to build, which was way over budget, thanks to some ambitious plans.
Fun fact: it was bankrolled by none other than rum runner Joe Hobbs. But when the Depression hit, Hobbs hit rock bottom, and the building went on a bargain sale to the Guinness family for a mere $900,000 in 1933.
Talk about a steal!
| Pro Tip: The Art Deco and Chocolate Tasting Tour happens every Thursday and Saturday morning at 10 AM. It’s a treat for your taste buds and your inner architecture nerd! |
Vancouver City Hall
– Media credit: aiden_blake
Type: Landmark Skyscraper
Website: https://vancouver.ca/your-government/getting-to-city-hall.aspx
Location: 453 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC V5Y 1V4, Canada
Contact number: 604-873-7000
Hours:
- Closed from Saturday to Sunday
- Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 5 PM
Vancouver’s City Hall is a piece of Art Deco perfection right in the heart of the city. Built back in 1936 as a make-work project during the Great Depression, this beauty was all about creating jobs and adding a touch of elegance to the skyline.
Designed by architects Townley and Matheson, Vancouver City Hall is a textbook example of Art Deco architecture. Sleek lines, geometric patterns, and fancy decorations that scream elegance and modernity from every angle, it’s all there.
Once inside, you’ll be greeted by a lobby that’s straight out of the Gatsby era. Marble floors, fancy plasterwork, and swanky lighting fixtures set the scene for a visit that’s sure to impress.
And don’t even get us started on the grand staircase. It’s like something out of a Hollywood movie!
But it’s not just about looks as Vancouver City Hall has a serious history too. Back in the day, Mayor Gerry McGeer hustled hard to drum up the cash for this place, hitting up wealthy donors left and right.
And get this. They managed to build the whole shebang in just 330 days for a cool $1 million.
Now, here’s a fun fact: they almost stuck City Hall smack dab in the downtown core, but they decided against it.
Why? Well, rumor has it they wanted to keep it a bit out of the way to make it harder for protestors and activists to cause a ruckus. Sneaky, huh?
| Pro Tip: Oh, and did we mention there’s a statue of Captain George Vancouver out front? Yup, it’s the work of none other than Vancouver’s own Charles Marega, just another little touch that makes this place so special. |
St. James Church
– Media credit: dscottfrench
Type: Landmark Skyscraper
Website: https://stjames.bc.ca/st-james-anglican-church
Location: 303 E Cordova Street, Vancouver, BC V6A 1L4
Contact number: 604-685-2532
Hours:
- Open daily from 9 AM – 5 PM (offices)
St. James Church is one building you can’t miss, standing at the corner of Cordova and Gore streets in the Downtown Eastside. Trust us, it’s one of those buildings that’ll make you stop and stare.
Now, here’s the lowdown on the architecture: Sir Adrian Gilbert George, the mastermind behind this beauty, didn’t hold back.
He threw in a mix of Art Deco, Romanesque Revival, Byzantine Revival, and Gothic Revival styles, creating a masterpiece that’s as eclectic as it is stunning.
St. James Church wasn’t just another construction project. It was one of the few big deals happening in Vancouver during the Great Depression.
The raw concrete finish? It stayed au naturel until 1972. Now that’s what we call sticking to your roots!
| Pro Tip: St. James’ Church is famous for its jaw-dropping stained glass windows, showcasing biblical tales that amp up the church’s vibe and dazzle visitors with its sheer beauty. |
Burrard Bridge
– Media credit: artdecovancouver
Type: Landmark Architectural Treasure
Location: Burrard Bridge, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Hours:
- Open 24 hours
The Burrard Bridge is a real showstopper in Vancouver’s skyline. Back in 1932, Mayor L.D. Taylor unveiled this beauty, and one newspaper even called it “A Symphony of Steel and Concrete.”
The bridge’s namesake, Harry Burrard, was pals with Captain George Vancouver but never actually set foot in the city. Talk about leaving a legacy without even showing up!
The Burrard Bridge is a stunning example of Art Deco architecture and engineering brilliance. Designed by architect G.L. Thornton Sharp and engineer J.G. Lyle, this bridge is like a work of art that also happens to get you from downtown to Kitsilano in style.
Those iconic twin concrete towers, rising dramatically above the roadway with all those fancy Art Deco details, are just begging to be photographed.
The Burrard Bridge offers some killer views of Vancouver’s skyline and the surrounding mountains.
Plus, those graceful curves and sleek lines blend right in with the natural beauty of False Creek, giving the whole area an extra dose of charm.
Now, here’s a fun fact for you: those two galleries above the bridge deck were actually built to hide a bunch of steel that holds the whole thing up.
And as for the large mesh of steel underneath, it was supposed to carry a railway line, but that never happened. Oops!
Sure, building the Burrard Bridge meant saying goodbye to Cedar Street, but hey, you win some, you lose some. At the end of the day, this bridge isn’t just a way to get from A to B.
It’s a piece of Vancouver’s history and a symbol of the city’s identity. So next time you’re crossing the Burrard Bridge, take a moment to appreciate all the history and craftsmanship that went into making it the icon it is today.
| Pro Tip: Let’s not forget about the oversized lamps at each end of the bridge. Not only are they a tribute to First World War soldiers, but they also help ships navigate! |
The Vogue Theatre
– Media credit: artdecovancouver
Type: Elegant Theater
Website: https://voguetheatre.com/
Location: 918 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1L2, Canada
Contact number: 604-688-1975
Hours:
- Closed from Sunday to Wednesday
- Thursday: 12 PM – 6 PM
- Friday: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Saturday: 12 PM – 6 PM
The Vogue Theatre is a true star of Vancouver’s entertainment scene. Built back in 1940 by rum-runner George C. Reifel, this place is dripping with history and charm.
It’s like stepping into a time machine straight to the late Art Deco period, known as Art Moderne.
From the moment you lay eyes on it, you can’t miss The Vogue’s iconic marquee. All sleek lines, bold lettering, and neon vibes, like a beacon calling you to come and check out what’s inside.
And speaking of inside, get ready to be wowed. The lobby is like something out of a classic Hollywood movie: polished marble floors, fancy moldings, and swanky light fixtures everywhere you look.
You’ll feel like a movie star just walking through the door.
But the real magic happens when you step into the auditorium. Plush seats, luxurious drapes, and gold accents set the stage for an unforgettable experience.
The walls are adorned with intricate plasterwork, and the lighting casts a warm, cozy glow over everything. It’s pure vintage glamour.
Sure, it’s a fantastic venue for live performances, film screenings, and special events, but it’s also a piece of Vancouver’s architectural and cultural history.
It’s a place where the past meets the present, where you can soak up the magic of yesteryear while enjoying all the comforts of modern entertainment.
| Pro Tip: Oh, and did we mention the top of the facade? You can’t miss the Greek Goddess Diana up there, reigning over the hunt, woodlands, wild animals, birth, and the moon. |
The Hollywood Theatre
– Media credit: vanculturebc
Type: Elegant Theater
Website: https://www.hollywoodtheatre.ca/
Location: 3123 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC V6K 2H2, Canada
Contact number: 778-819-3065
Ah, the Hollywood Theatre on Kitsilano’s Broadway. Built in 1935 smack dab in the middle of the Great Depression, it was like a beacon of light in an otherwise gloomy year for construction in the city.
As soon as you lay eyes on the Hollywood Theatre, it’s like stepping into a time machine back to the golden age of cinema.
The Art Deco details are on point, with geometric patterns, sleek lines, and all those snazzy decorative motifs that scream old Hollywood glamour.
And don’t even get us started on that iconic marquee! It’s like a neon time capsule calling out to all the movie buffs out there.
Once you step inside, prepare to be dazzled. The grand lobby is decked out with polished marble floors, fancy moldings, and swanky light fixtures.
Just picture yourself surrounded by Art Deco furnishings and decor, sinking into plush seats and soaking up the nostalgia. Inside the auditorium, the Art Deco theme continues to wow with velvet curtains, decorative wall panels, and gilded accents.
The walls are decked out with ornate plasterwork, while vintage lighting sets the mood for a cinematic experience like no other.
| Pro Tip: Get there early and soak up all that vintage charm! Take a stroll through the lobby and check out the Art Deco vibes, from the fancy moldings to the old-school posters hanging around. |
The Commodore Ballroom
– Media credit: artdecovancouver
Type: Hidden Architectural Treasure
Website: http://www.commodoreballroom.com/
Location: 868 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1K3, Canada
Contact number: 604-739-4550
Hours:
- Open daily from 9:30 AM – 4 PM
The iconic Commodore Ballroom has been serving up entertainment since 1929. And seriously, it’s seen its fair share of legendary performances and shindigs over the years.
Outside, you’re greeted by this vintage treasure, oozing charm with its Art Deco facade. It’s the intricate detailing, geometric patterns, and iconic neon sign that’s practically a beacon for music lovers and party animals alike.
But it’s what’s inside that really steals the show. Just walk through those doors and prepare to be dazzled by a grand foyer fit for royalty.
Marble floors? Check. Opulent chandeliers? Double check.
And don’t even get me started on those plush velvet curtains. Fancy!
Now, picture yourself on the dance floor, because let’s be real, that’s where the magic happens. Surrounded by ornate balconies and sparkling chandeliers, it’s like stepping back in time to an era of glitz and glam.
And with a lineup of world-class artists gracing the stage, you’re guaranteed a night to remember.
From jazz legends to rock icons, the Commodore Ballroom has seen it all. And with its intimate vibe and historic charm, it’s no wonder both performers and audiences keep coming back for more.
And let’s not forget the juicy tidbits from its past: like how it was built by a brewer, rum-runner, and all-around party animal named George C. Reifel.
Legend has it that he built the Commodore after his wife got tired of waiting in line for dinner elsewhere. Now that’s love!
| Pro Tip: At this joint, it’s all about free-range seating, so you better hustle for those primo spots! Get there early to snag a sweet spot near the action or nab a balcony seat for top-notch views. Plus, showing up early means you can take in the vibes of this historic spot, sip on a drink from one of the bars, and get in the mood before the show kicks off. |
Gotham Steakhouse
– Media credit: artdecovancouver
Type: Hidden Architectural Treasure
Website: https://www.gothamsteakhouse.com/
Location: 615 Seymour St, Vancouver, BC V6B 3K3, Canada
Contact number: 604-605-8282
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
- Saturday: 3 PM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 3 PM – 9 PM
Have you heard about Gotham Steakhouse? It’s this hidden gem snuggled between the Hudson’s Bay Company and the St. Regis Hotel on Seymour Street in Vancouver.
Built in 1933 during the Great Depression, it’s a true Art Deco gem. And those illustrations of vaudeville star Josephine Baker on the windows just add to the charm.
Once you walk through those doors, it’s like you’ve entered a time machine to an era of opulence and luxury. It’s like stepping back in time to the glitz and glamour of the 1920s and 1930s.
The interior is straight out of an Art Deco dream: think rich wood paneling, marble floors, and plush velvet seats. You’ve got ornate light fixtures, intricate moldings, and those geometric patterns everywhere, creating this old-school charm that’s just so darn classy.
But wait till you see the dining room. It’s the heart of the place, where you can indulge in the finest steaks and seafood while soaking in the refined vibes.
With tables dressed in crisp linens, jazz music setting the mood, and the smell of sizzling steaks in the air, it’s an experience you won’t forget.
| Pro Tip: Why not show up fashionably early and kick things off with a cheeky pre-dinner cocktail at the bar or lounge? Take in the fancy vibes and check out their killer wine selection. |
Georgia Medical Dental Building
– Media credit: westendkati
Type: Architectural Treasures Lost to Time
Location: West Georgia Street, Vancouver BC, Canada
Built back in 1929 by architects Sharp & Thompson, the Georgia Medical Dental Building was designed to cater to the needs of the medical and dental professions while looking oh-so-stylish.
Now, here’s a bit of a sad story: the original building got knocked down in 1989 to make way for something more modern, the Cathedral Place.
But hey, they did manage to salvage some of the best sculptural details, like the trio of terra cotta nurses nicknamed the Rhea Sisters. They may not be in their original home, but they’re still standing tall out at UBC as part of the Technology Enterprise Facility.
But if you’d have seen it in person, you’d be amazed. So, while the Georgia Medical Dental Building may be gone, its spirit lives on as a testament to the timeless Art Deco design and Vancouver’s rich architectural history.
| Pro Tip: Take some time to view the Rhea Sisters! Oh, the stories they could tell! |
Granville Street Power Block
– Media credit: granvillestreetvancouver
Type: Hidden Architectural Treasures
Location: Granville Street, Vancouver BC, Canada
Near the bustling intersection of Granville and Robson streets in Vancouver, you’ll find the iconic Power Block. It’s a piece of history that’s seen it all since its heyday in the late 1800s.
Originally just a humble saloon built in 1888, this spot got a snazzy upgrade in 1929 with a swanky Art Deco façade that’s like a blast from the past with its ancient Egyptian vibes.
Back in its glory days, the Power Block was the beating heart of downtown Vancouver, smack dab between Robson and Georgia streets. It was the place to be, with all sorts of businesses and utilities crammed into its walls, keeping the city buzzing with life.
Fast forward to the early 1900s, and the Granville Street Power Block was in full swing, catering to Vancouver’s booming population and economy. Offices, shops, warehouses, and apartments, you name it, this block had it all.
The crown jewel of the Power Block was the Vancouver Electric Railway and Light Company Building. It was the epitome of architectural grandeur, symbolizing the city’s growth and progress.
This bad boy was the nerve center for electric streetcar services in Vancouver, complete with grand columns, a fancy clock tower, and enough ornate detailing to make your head spin.
The Power Block was a melting pot of businesses and institutions, from the Vancouver Gas Company to your favorite local shops. Together, they formed a vibrant streetscape that defined Granville Street back in the day.
Nowadays, the Power Block may look a little different, with some of its original buildings gone or changed beyond recognition. It’s still kicking with a mix of shops, restaurants, and office spaces that keep the spirit of downtown Vancouver alive and well.
Even though the original structure got knocked down in 2012, the façade lives on, now proudly watched over by clothing retailer Old Navy. Talk about a stylish makeover!
| Pro Tip: How about a jaunt down Granville Street? Explore the Power Block’s cool buildings, admire the fancy facades, and check out historical plaques for a peek into the past. |
The Burrard Building
– Media credit: theburrard
Type: Landmark Skyscraper
Website: https://modtraveler.net/city/vancouver_694/listing/burrard-building/
Location: 1030 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6E 2Y3, Canada
Contact number: 604-687-6945
The Burrard Building, standing tall and proud in downtown Vancouver, is a prime example of Art Deco architecture.
Built back in 1956, it’s like a time capsule of mid-century modern vibes, designed by the architectural wizards at McCarter Nairne and Partners.
These folks knew what they were doing, blending sleek lines and innovative design inspired by the International Style that was all the rage post-war.
What sets the Burrard Building apart? Well, for starters, it’s the curtain wall facade. The windows and panels let in all that gorgeous natural light.
Made of aluminum and glass, it’s got that minimalist, futuristic look that screams ’50s cool. Standing tall at 21 stories, the Burrard Building was a real showstopper when it first graced Vancouver’s skyline.
And let’s not forget its primo spot on Burrard Street. Remember, it’s all about location, location, location!
Sure, it’s had a few touch-ups over the years to keep up with the times, but the Burrard Building still holds court as a top-notch office space, home to all sorts of businesses and organizations.
But it’s more than just a pretty facade. It’s a symbol of Vancouver’s growth and progress in the mid-20th century, a testament to the city’s embrace of innovation and change.
| Pro Tip: Don’t let the chance slip by to check out the Burrard Building’s slick design from various spots across the city, especially at night when it’s all lit up and showing off against Vancouver’s skyline. |
The Orpheum Theatre
– Media credit: scienceartes
Type: Elegant Theater
Website: https://vancouvercivictheatres.com/venues/orpheum/
Location: 601 Smithe St, Vancouver, BC V6B 3L4, Canada
Contact number: 604-665-3035
It’s 1927, and the Orpheum Theatre opens up as a swanky vaudeville joint and movie palace. Fast forward to today, and it’s the spot for all things entertainment in Vancouver.
Designed by architect Marcus Priteca, this place is a masterpiece of Art Deco architecture. From the outside, it’s like stepping back in time with its fancy Spanish Baroque-style facade, complete with all the bells and whistles.
Intricate plasterwork, decorative arches, and those classic neon lights that make you feel like you’re in an old-school movie. Once you step inside, prepare to be wowed.
The grand lobby is straight-up luxurious, with marble floors, gilded accents, and chandeliers that’ll make you feel like royalty. And just think, the auditorium is all about being fancy and dandy.
Plush velvet seats, ornate plasterwork. It’s like being transported to another era.
It’s no wonder this place has hosted some of the biggest names in showbiz. Musicians, actors, dancers, you name it.
With its rich history and jaw-dropping performances, it’s no wonder the Orpheum is a National Historic Site of Canada!
| Pro Tip: The Orpheum is home to one seriously impressive Wurlitzer organ. Installed back in ’27, this thing is massive and legendary. Trust me, when it starts playing, you’ll feel it in your bones. |
West End Apartments
– Media credit: artdecovancouver
Location: West End, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Type: Charming Residential Gems, Hidden Architectural Treasures
The West End Apartments is where historic charm meets city living. Located in Vancouver’s lively West End neighborhood, these residential buildings are like a little slice of history right in the heart of the city.
When you get there, you’re surrounded by buildings with stories to tell, each one boasting its own unique architectural style. From sleek Art Deco to charming Tudor Revival, it’s all a playful mix of art and style.
What also sets the West End apart, though, is its diverse and inclusive community. From LGBTQ+ individuals and families to students, professionals, and retirees, everyone is welcome here.
The neighborhood has seen some changes over the years but one thing remains the same: the West End’s unique character and charm through its architectural styles!
| Pro Tip: Watch for fancy stuff on building fronts like fancy moldings, pretty friezes, and grand entrances. Also, think about joining a guided walk around the block to soak up more of the Art Deco vibe around here. |
Davie Street
– Media credit: feelingbeckish
Location: Davie Village, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Type: Charming Residential Gems
Davie Village is the heart and soul of Vancouver’s West End. This neighborhood is like a melting pot of history, diversity, and downright good vibes.
Stroll down Davie Street, and you’ll see it all, from classic buildings that whisper tales of the past to shiny new high-rises that scream modernity. But Davie Village has its own little nods to the Art Deco style, especially if you know where to look.
Some of those vintage apartment buildings along Davie Street are hidden gems, with geometric patterns and sleek lines that wouldn’t be out of place in a 1920s speakeasy.
Now, you’ve got shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars lining the streets, each one adding its own architectural flavor to the mix. Come for the architecture, stay for the atmosphere.
And it’s perfect if you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just someone looking for a good time. Trust us, you won’t want to leave!
| Pro Tip: Take a wander off Davie Street to spot some sweet Art Deco vibes. Keep an eye out for geometric patterns, sleek lines, and fancy facades on smaller buildings or shops. And don’t forget to look up. You’ll find more Art Deco magic on the upper floors! |
The Queen Charlotte
– Media credit: attentionvan
Type: Charming Residential Gem
Location: 1101 Nicola St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2E1, Canada
Tucked away at 1238 Davie Street, you’ll find Queen Charlotte standing tall since the 1930s. But this isn’t your run-of-the-mill apartment complex.
The Queen Charlotte is a bona fide architectural masterpiece with a distinctive Art Deco facade that’ll stop you in your tracks.
Geometric patterns, vertical piers, and decorative motifs that scream vintage charm, it’s all there! Back in the day, it was the talk of the town marketed as a high-end apartment hotel with all the bells and whistles you could imagine.
Fast forward to the 1970s, and The Queen Charlotte got a makeover, becoming strata-owned condominiums. Despite the facelift, most of the apartments still retain their layout and historic character, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
The Queen Charlotte officially became a designated heritage building in 1997, and boy, does it wear its title well. From its large Mission-style gables to its original wood windows and Art Deco detailing in the lobby, this place oozes history at every turn.
And did we mention it’s been featured on the Vancouver Heritage Foundation’s Heritage House Tour? Yup, this building’s got some serious street cred.
| Pro Tip: Once in a blue moon, folks might just snag a sneak peek inside the Queen Charlotte Apartments, courtesy of the Vancouver Heritage Foundation’s Heritage House Tour. But you can always snap your pics from the outside! |
Sinclair Centre
– Media credit: dapperland
Type: Landmark Skyscraper
Website: https://www.sinclaircentre.com/
Location: 757 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6C 1A1, Canada
Contact number: 604-488-1685
Hours:
- Closed on Sunday
- Monday to Saturday: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
You’ll find Sinclair Centre neatly tucked away in the heart of downtown Vancouver. It’s a historic landmark and commercial hub with a past as rich as its marble floors.
Originally, this place was the Vancouver Post Office and Federal Building, built between 1910 and 1912 by architect Thomas Hooper. It was the go-to spot for all things postal in the city, bustling with government offices and services.
In the ’80s, it got a serious facelift and transformed into the Sinclair Centre we know today. Nowadays, Sinclair Centre is like a maze of interconnected heritage buildings, each with its own story to tell.
You’ve got the Vancouver Post Office and Federal Building, of course, plus the Customs Examining Warehouse, the Post Office Extension, and the Federal Building No. 2.
These buildings are like time capsules, meticulously restored to keep their historic charm intact while making room for modern shops, offices, and eateries.
Just step inside, and you’ll be greeted by the grandeur of the atrium: marble floors, grand staircases, and fancy columns everywhere you look. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to stop and take a million photos.
Speaking of photos, Sinclair Centre is home to a lot of shops. From luxury boutiques and specialty shops to yummy restaurants and professional offices, they’ve got it all.
As a designated heritage site, Sinclair Centre isn’t just a shopping center but also a piece of Vancouver’s history. Its stunning architecture, prime location, and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit for anyone exploring downtown.
| Pro Tip: Take a stroll and soak up the fancy-schmancy vibes of the Art Deco style. Sure, shopping and munching are cool here, but don’t miss out on checking out the details! |
The Murrin Substation
– Media credit: all.these.ampoules
Type: Hidden Architectural Treasures
Location: 33 Union St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2V1, Canada
Contact number: 800-224-9376
Hours:
- Open 24 hours
Let’s check out the Murrin Substation on Main Street, an Art Deco gem from the late 1930s that’s more than just a brick-faced building.
This spot, also known as the Murrin Transformer Station, is like the beating heart of Vancouver’s electrical system, quietly buzzing away in the downtown core.
The Murrin Substation has some serious style too. With its modernist-inspired facade, featuring clean lines and geometric shapes, it’s like the fabulous flappers and the dapper gents.
Plus, those striking motifs of sunbursts and lightning bolts over the doorways? Classic touches of Art Deco power vibes right there.
And hey, this place isn’t stuck in the past. BC Hydro is always working to make things better, investing in upgrades to keep things running smoothly and exploring renewable energy to help make Vancouver even greener.
| Pro Tip: Get a fresh perspective and capture cool shots of the overlooked substation! Its modern design and clean lines make for great photos when framed creatively. Experiment with angles and lighting, and visit at different times for unique shots. |
