Award

Bentall Centre MNP Tower The Post on Georgia Vancouver Centre II M A R C H 2 0 2 5 | 7 Musson Cattell Mackey Partnership [CLOCK WISE FROM TOP] PHOTOGR APHY BY EMA PETER; GR AHAM HANDFORD x 2; ROBERT TRUIJEN All five partners at the firm are actively involved with clients and projects, working side by side in an open-plan space rather than behind closed-off doors, a rare commitment for a practice of MCM's size. This balance between business management and hands-on architecture reflects a deliberate choice. "Personally, I became an architect to practice architecture, not just manage a business. We've structured our operations to balance business management with staying active in the creative and technical aspects of our work," explains Thompson. While MCM is well known for its work on large, complex projects, its ability to pivot into new areas – such as science and technology labs, and even interior design – while continuing to support core clients has helped it weather economic downturns like the dotcom bust. "That adaptability has been a hallmark of our practice. Today, we focus on a variety of projects, including mixed-use develop- ments, retail, and high-rise residential work, evolving to meet the changing demands of our clients," says Solivar. Another defining decision for the firm was its choice to stay local. "We're a 100-person firm based entirely in Vancouver, with no branch offices. We've con- sciously chosen to focus geographically on B.C. while diversifying our project types to remain resilient. This approach allows us to stay rooted in Vancouver, which is important to us," explains Thompson. "We're proud to be the largest 100 percent Vancouver-owned architectural firm. Being locally owned and operated strengthens our connection to Vancouver and its community." When it comes to projects, MCM takes a collaborative approach. "There are no egos here," says Solivar, "which has allowed us to successfully build – not just design – so many complex, large-scale projects." And with more than 400 projects completed, it's difficult to select those that truly showcase the firm's skill set. The Bentall Centre stands out as a group of transformative first-class office towers that helped reshape Vancouver's downtown. Canada Place, with its iconic cruise ship terminal, is another landmark project. Then there's Electronic Arts' headquarters in Burnaby, which marked MCM's entry into the tech sector. The Vancouver Convention Centre West and the Paradox Hotel – formerly known as the Trump International Hotel – are also iconic, skyline-defining projects. More recent work includes the King George Hub, The Stories at Broadway and Granville, 622 SW Marine Drive, 155 East 6th Street, and the ongoing master planning development in the Great Northern Way area – projects that are shap- ing the future of Vancouver. While the standout iconic structures are certainly worth celebrating, MCM has been involved in countless lesser-known projects that have helped shape Vancouver over the years. One such project is 155 Water Street, which incorpo- rates key heritage elements and holds special significance for both Solivar and Thompson. Anchored by two historic Gastown facades, with a new seven-storey building rising above Vancouver's oldest neighbourhood, 155 Water Street blends modern office and retail spaces with preserved heritage. "Vancouver doesn't have much heritage compared to older cities, so these buildings are even more precious," says Thompson. "We're finding ways to preserve entire heritage buildings – upgrading them for earthquake and fire safety while making them functional for modern use." In fact, this focus on restoration is central to MCM's philosophy moving for- ward. "We're seeing increasing opportunities with older buildings. Clients with aging Class B and Class A office buildings often ask how to keep them relevant. Renovation is a key focus, especially with land in limited supply. Over the next five to 10 years, we'll likely see more of this as we find ways to modernize and preserve older structures rather than demolish them," says Thompson. MCM's expertise in restoration is evident in projects like The Post on Georgia, the largest heritage revitalization in B.C., and the Vancouver Club's renovation of its Class A heritage building. This project included restoring the existing east and west elevations in tandem with the development of an adjacent city park over a parking garage. "We're always mindful of what's coming next and how different uses can be blended together," explains Solivar. "For example, with the aging population, we're currently exploring how medical facilities can be integrated into office or mixed-use developments." When it comes to MCM's projects, there's a little secret, a certain je ne sais quoi that ties them all together: a touch of whimsy. "Back in 2006, I worked on the Convention Centre and float plane terminal with Frank. He told me some- thing that's stuck with me ever since: 'Most of our work is functional, and that's essential, but great architecture leaves room for a little whimsy.' He said it could be anything – a moment of wonder or a smile – that makes the project unforget- table; I always strive to carry that forward in my own work," says Solivar. It may not always be obvious at first, but that hidden touch of whimsy is what makes each MCM project uniquely memorable and so very Vancouver. A

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