Darwin Properties is proposing significant design changes to its mixed-use development at 1310 Monashee Drive, eliminating a previously planned rooftop amenity and removing private balconies from many student-oriented units. The District of North Vancouver council will discuss the changes at a council meeting on March 2.
The unit mix has been amended to increase the number of studio, four-, and five-bedroom units. Darwin is now proposing 63 studio units, up from 36.
“The amended unit mix does not impact the requirement that 50% of all units must be occupied by students, faculty, or staff of Capilano University, and that the number of affordable rent units remain consistent with the housing agreement approved by council
as a condition of rezoning,” the staff report notes.
The redesign follows adjustments to the unit mix and includes consequential updates to amenity spaces and façade treatment. To enhance the building design with student safety in mind, the previously proposed rooftop amenity has been removed, and private balconies have been eliminated from many student-oriented units.
Because a portion of the homes are still intended for the general public as well as CapU faculty and staff, balconies will remain on select units located in specific sections of the buildings. According to the report, the remaining balconies are being strategically positioned rather than being removed entirely.
Amenity spaces redesigned for light and connection
In place of the rooftop amenity, indoor and ground-level spaces will be reorganized and expanded. In the north building, the ground floor will be reconfigured to shift amenity areas toward the central courtyard.
The redesigned amenity program will offer a range of gathering options, from 225-square-foot quiet study rooms to social spaces of up to 1,600 square feet. In the south building, the ground floor plan will be revised to remove a breezeway and introduce additional amenity space alongside a realigned lobby.
The report also notes that glazing will be added to stairwells throughout the buildings to increase natural light in interior corridors and contribute to the overall façade design. The changes respond in part to feedback from the District’s Advisory Design Panel, which reviewed the project in May 2025 and recommended approval subject to further refinements.
The project is now before the council for consideration of the Development Permit. If approved, demolition is expected to begin in early 2026, with excavation and construction continuing through fall 2028.
