Vancouver City Hall is an exquisite example of an older building exuding a majestic grandeur that is still highly respected and cherished. Walk along the street leading up to the towering façade to be inspired with awe and incredulity.
Exhibiting an outward appearance that is described as being between the styles of highly ornamental art deco and squared-off moderne, the building initiates curiosity from passersby. When you enter the expansive lobby, travel to the 1930s at the time of the Great Depression when Vancouver was beginning its expansion.
Look down at the cream-and-black terrazzo floors that accompany gleaming marble walls. Follow the marble pillars and brass details upward against the walls and ending with a gold-leafed ceiling. The floors above are dramatically marked with mezzanine balconies. View the fixtures that are often original, such as chandeliers that lend their classic charm to this magnificent space.
Admire the elevators with their solid brass doors and casings and notice the original command buttons and floor indicators. Look inside the elevators to be welcomed with rich wood panels and light fixtures. Although the building’s cost of $1 million seems very inexpensive by today’s standards, it was considered exorbitant at the time of construction in 1936.
The stairwell continues the magnificent interior’s theme with its integration of colored marble paired with solid brass handrails. Focus on the attention to detail that includes each solid brass lock plate stamped with the city’s coat of arms and each doorknob displaying the building’s monogram.
Go up to the third floor where the business portion of the building is located and has been maintained in its original grandeur. The Council Chambers sprawl over two stories with an inside balcony, rich wood paneling and four immense cast brass chandeliers. Admire the city’s official mace, kept in a display case by the chambers.
More recently, portions of the building have undergone seismic reinforcement for protection against any possible earthquakes.
Visit Vancouver City Hall from Monday to Friday during regular business hours.
