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Controversial New VAG Plans Unveiled For Downtown Location

By Jennifer Elliott /

A Swiss architect duo put an Asian spin on the contemporary design.

Gallery Courtyard© Herzog & de Meuron

Gallery level 5 overlooking Queen Elizabeth Plaza and downtown© Herzog & de Meuron

West Georgia Street at night© Herzog & de Meuron

Herzog & de MeuronGallery Lobby© Herzog & de Meuron

Before we get carried away, funding for the new development has not yet reached its target—estimated around $300 million—so it might be a while before we see the new structure pop up across from the Queen Elizabeth Theatre on West Georgia.Covering two-thirds of the block, the design by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron proposes a stacked structure, which would created a layered environment; opening up covered spaces that would be both sunlit and safe from the rain.Technical design elements aside, Vancouverites took to social media with their thoughts on the overall appearance.https://twitter.com/bobmackin/status/648930448186281984https://twitter.com/rodmickleburgh/status/648953731237543936https://twitter.com/rbrtwhite/status/648946235005468672