Transforming Downtown: Royal Centre Plaza Renovation to Draw Tenants and Engage the Public

Source: BIV

The Royal Centre at 1050 West Georgia Street is undergoing a multimillion-dollar makeover in celebration of the tower’s 50th anniversary. Originally constructed in 1973, the 37-storey tower has seen periodic renovations over the years, but the current plan, announced on January 16, is the most extensive yet.

The renovation, managed by Warrington PCI, aims to enhance the building’s aesthetic and functionality, creating a modern and dynamic space for both tenants and visitors. The key features include state-of-the-art structural glass walls, new landscaping, and improved signage to better connect with the SkyTrain station below.

As part of the makeover, a new 9,000-square-foot, two-level restaurant and a 4,600-square-foot exterior patio overlooking West Georgia Street are planned. These additions aim to provide a trendy space for professional and social meetings, aligning with the goal of animating the building’s spaces.

Lorna Park, Senior Vice President of Property Management at Warrington PCI, highlighted the importance of creating a place for tenants to meet in the lobby. The renovation also responds to changes in how people work and socialize, aiming to transform the building from a mere office space into a destination.

The exterior plaza is envisioned as a draw to bring people back to work downtown. While previous renovations in 2001 focused on the podium, the current project reflects a renewed emphasis on the public-facing aspects of the building.

Royal Centre’s plaza renovation aligns with other downtown makeovers, such as the replacement of the Pacific Centre rotunda with Canada’s only Apple flagship store in 2022. Various projects in the area focus on creating appealing public spaces, often centered around cafes or eateries, providing economic, social, and gastronomical opportunities.

The completion of Royal Centre’s plaza renovation is scheduled for late 2025.

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