1986 – Canada Place, Vancouver, British Columbia
Constructed on land which was originally the Canadian Pacific Railway’s Pier B–C, Canada Place has become an international symbol for Vancouver. It initially served as the Canadian Pavilion for Expo ’86. The building was designed by architects Zeidler Roberts Partnership in joint venture with Musson Cattell Mackey Partnership and DA Architects + Planners.
The building’s exterior is covered by Teflon fabric roofs which span 180 feet diagonally over the exhibition spaces and creates a sail-like appearance with its undulating ridges. This dramatic nautical motif is reflected in the detailing of the entire complex.
The ship-like form floats and juts into the water. An eleven-hundred foot long boardwalk running along the pier was created at a 45 degree angle to the city grid, overlooking the harbour, Stanley Park, and the mountains. Promenades at both sides of the pier on various levels lead to a plaza at the end of the pier, which is surrounded by an amphitheatre, restaurants, and a small shopping centre.
Published February 15, 2026
