junctionist
Senior Member
The city's planners made a mistake, but their recommendations are usually sound. In this case, the podium setback is perfect so that it doesn't compete with the Royal Alex's facade--the most important architectural landmark on the street. Planners wanted a conventional podium to maintain the street wall. As for the height, I don't recall the city's position, but I think a building with a distinctive facade like this one should be tall to really stand out. I find that Royal Bank Plaza could be more impressive if it were taller. But that shouldn't trump shadows and precedent setting issues.
Last edited: