Engineering Elegance and Innovation at Vancouver’s Shangri-La
As a famous multinational luxury hotel chain, Shangri-La’s break into Vancouver’s market in 2009 was a strategic decision
The city’s status as a top North American travel destination made it an ideal choice for this global hospitality leader.
Naturally, the iconic tallest building in Vancouver’s downtown—a beacon of design excellence—features the unparalleled craftsmanship of East and West Aluminum Craft, where sophisticated design meets the highest quality manufacturing.
Introducing the Shangri-La to Vancouver
At approximately 200 meters (or 646 feet), the Shangri-La stands as the tallest building in the city and marks the first Canadian location of the renowned hotel chain. Located at 1128 West Georgia Street, this luxurious five-star hotel is prominently positioned in the downtown skyline, fondly described as “nestled between the mountains and the sea.”
Since its opening in 2009, the Shangri-La has become one of the most desired accommodations in Vancouver, consistently ranking among the top three hotels in the entire country.
Its design masterfully combines contemporary sophistication with Asian-inspired elements, offering guests a serene and elegant atmosphere complemented by breathtaking views of the city skyline, the ocean, and the mountains.
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Mix of Hotel Rooms and Residential Properties
The hotel’s impressive structure includes 57 floors and rises to 62 stories, making it not just a haven for travelers but also a home to many more affluent Vancouverites.
East and West Aluminum Craft was tasked with manufacturing all the aluminum guardrails and handrails within the building. This included installations across 119 hotel rooms and 307 residential units, where each element was crafted to enhance the aesthetics and safety of both living and communal spaces.
Our work emphasizes the blend of functionality and style that complements the dual nature of this recognizable building, catering to both short-term guests and permanent residents.
High Glass “Wind Screens”
Considering the building’s significant height and its exposed position in Vancouver’s dense urban core, dealing with high winds was a serious concern. While safety was the pressing issue, as a luxury hotel, it was also essential to ensure that guests and residents could fully enjoy all the amenities, including the balconies.
To address this, East and West collaborated with Westbank Projects, the Peterson Investment Group, and the building’s architects to construct high glass “wind screens.” These features are specifically engineered to mitigate wind effects at higher elevations, ensuring that both residents and travelers enjoy comfort and uninterrupted views without the interference of natural elements.
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Exceeding Quality Standards
As part of a global chain with over 100 properties across the Middle East, Europe, North America, and Asia Pacific, the Vancouver’s Shangri-La location needed to live up to the exceptional service and luxurious amenities associated with the brand. This location includes a comprehensive complex featuring a spa, grocery store, art gallery, and a restaurant, all located near the bustling Robson and Alberni streets.
Taking into account the brand’s esteemed reputation, the skilled team at East and West meticulously crafted each aluminum railing to meet the exacting standards expected by a globally recognized hospitality brand. We utilized only the highest quality materials and employed advanced manufacturing and installation techniques. This ensured that each railing not only fulfilled the functional demands of a mixed-use skyscraper but also echoed the opulence and excellence synonymous with the Shangri-La name.
The East & West Aluminum Craft Quality Promise
With a legacy spanning over five decades, East & West Aluminum Craft is dedicated to delivering timeless sophistication through our precision-engineered aluminum railings. We honed our experience and artistry to produce pieces that not only meet but exceed the expectations of architectural integrity and aesthetic beauty.
Whether it’s a large-scale commercial project or a bespoke residential design, our commitment to quality ensures that every aluminum product stands the test of time. Partner with East & West Aluminum Craft, and let our expert craftsmanship bring your next architectural vision to life with elegance and precision.
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Transform your next project with reliable, efficient and top-quality manufacturing.