City councillors will review how building plan stacks up

Cedar Avenue tower double the height now allowed

The design of a “skinny” 15-storey residential tower in the South Pandosy neighbourhood will be reviewed today by Kelowna city council.

Municipal planners recommend that council advance the project to a public hearing, even though the height is double the current maximum for the proposed building site at 414 Cedar Ave.

“The desire to build a slender taller structure is preferred over the alternative of a bulky building of half the proposed height and more than twice its girth,” reads part of a submission from developer Albert Wisestock.

“A shorter, plumper building would further obscure the skyscrape and limit the amount of sunlight penetration to grade,” the application states.

The design includes asymmetrical floorplates said to have been inspired by the puzzle game Jenga.

“The undulating deck forms and the extensive attention to shadow play make the overall structure appear delicate and visually interesting,” the application states.

Plans show a two-storey base with a mix of retail and commercial premises.

City staff say the project is in keeping with an official community plan goal to encourage mixed land uses in urban centres.

The city intends within the next decade to develop Cedar Avenue Park on the lakeshore slightly to the west of the proposed tower.

Special to The Daily Courier An unusual, 15-storey tower, said to be inspired by the children's puzzle game Jenga, will be considered today by Kelowna city council.