Vancouver's First Supertall Tower Inspired by Sea Sponge Reefs

Henriquez Partners Architects has designed Vancouver's first supertall skyscraper as part of a three-tower development called Georgia & Abbott for the Holborn Group. The tallest structure will reach 1,033 feet (314 meters), exceeding the 984-foot threshold that defines a supertall building. Its design draws inspiration from ancient glass sea sponge reefs found off the British Columbia coast, with a sculptural form and environmental goals aiming for net-zero carbon operation. The tower features a steel exoskeleton clad in white GFRP panels and extensive glass surfaces. At its summit, a public atrium filled with trees will be accessible to visitors. The complex includes two additional towers measuring 783 feet and 889 feet, all rising from a shared podium that incorporates the preserved facade of the 1926 Randall Building. A separate fourth building, standing 402 feet tall, will provide social housing and a gallery dedicated to First Nations art. The development recently gained unanimous support from Vancouver's Urban Design Panel and will proceed to further approvals this summer. The project aims to increase density and economic activity in downtown Vancouver, creating jobs and adding residential, retail, and public spaces.