The BLOK is a three-story commercial development at 123 Avenue B South. The footprint of the development is approximately 15,963 square feet, and wraps around a central courtyard to enhance the community feel.
Project Details
The third story penthouse is appropriate for either commercial occupancy or residential living. Impressive 14 foot ceilings throughout the main floor flaunt exposed Q-deck and drywalled beams and columns, whereas, 12 foot ceilings on the second floor and 15 foot ceilings on the third floor showcase a combination of Q-deck and exposed raw steel structure.
Base building utilities include three phase power with a dedicated electrical sub-panel to each Commercial Retail Unit, dedicated rooftop heating and cooling units to each CRU, SaskTel & Shaw service, a full sprinkler system and fire-alarm panel, rough-ins for washrooms (one washroom for main floor tenants, two for second and third floor tenants), key card access to common stairwells, and finally, two limited use limited access elevators servicing both sides of the development.
The exterior envelope is comprised of interior gypsum wall board, 6mm CGSB poly, R20 batt insulation, 2in x 6in steel studs, exterior gypsum wall board, building wrap, and prefinished metal siding strapped to the exterior sheathing. The eclectic mix of metal siding colours, profiles, and orientations is Granville Island inspired, and gives the development an overall feeling of having been in the neighbourhood for decades. The 1600 series aluminum frames and dual glazed windows with muntin window panes also helps enhance the feeling of 'old'. A combination of a 2-ply SBS and standing seam metal panels make up the roof, and a fire-rated concrete block wall separates the north and south extents of the building from the neighbouring properties. Each above-grade suite has access to deck spaces, which are made of cedar decking and railings. One lucky unit features a deck surface comprised of porcelain tiles on adjustable legs with a seamless glass railing. The ground level surface flaunts massive weathered steel or COR-TEN columns which support a portion of the second-story above, concrete sidewalks and intricate paving stones, which are decorated with robust planters made of COR-TEN steel and cedar wood finished off with gorgeous plant life.
Finally, a massive exterior sign on the third floor roof proudly displays the development 'The BLO K' made of powder-coated aluminum and lit up with huge, globe-shaped incandescent light bulbs which are intentionally left out sparingly throughout the lettering, another touch to give the illusion of an 'old' building.
