Archie MontroseRemember when everyone was obsessed with the 0.5 camera trend? I jumped right in, of course! But what better way to elevate my photography game than by positioning Vancouver’s architectural marvels behind me?
With their stunning lines and vibrant designs, these modern buildings are begging to be featured on your Instagram feed! Join me as we explore the most Instagrammable modern buildings in Vancouver.
This guide will help you find the best spots to snap that picture-perfect moment. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on these breathtaking backdrops!
1. Vancouver House
Media credit: vancouver.house
Address: 1480 Howe St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1R8
Designed by the renowned Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), Vancouver House is a 155-meter-high neo-futurist residential skyscraper with a unique twisting form that emerges from a triangular base.
The building’s exterior showcases a honeycomb texture created by box-shaped balconies. I love how Vancouver House transforms an otherwise overlooked space into a lively hub that encourages visitor exploration and connection.
Pro tip:
Take a stroll around the building’s base to fully appreciate its architectural details and the surrounding public art installations. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a coffee at one of the nearby cafes while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
2. Museum of Anthropology
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Website: https://moa.ubc.ca/
Address: 6393 NW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2
Contact details: +16048275932
Operating hours: 10 AM–5 PM
The Museum of Anthropology (MOA) at the University of British Columbia was designed by renowned Canadian architect Arthur Erickson. This masterpiece features soaring ceilings and expansive glass walls that flood the interior with natural light.
Inside, you’ll find artifacts from various cultures, emphasizing the art and heritage of Northwest Coast First Nations. The museum also houses the world’s largest collection of works by Haida artist Bill Reid, including his iconic sculpture “The Raven and the First Men.”
Pro tip:
When visiting the Museum of Anthropology, don’t miss out on the free guided tours offered throughout the day. Plus, take some time to stroll through the museum’s beautiful grounds.
3. Polygon Gallery
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Website: https://thepolygon.ca/
Address: 101 Carrie Cates Ct, North Vancouver, BC V7M 3J4
Contact details: +16049861351
Operating hours: 10 AM–5 PM
The Polygon Gallery is designed by acclaimed architects John and Patricia Patkau. Opened in November 2017, this contemporary gallery stands out for its innovative design and commitment to showcasing the art of photography.
The building features floor-to-ceiling windows and a glass atrium that beautifully frame the iconic Vancouver skyline across Burrard Inlet. Inside, you can explore Western Canada’s largest independently owned photography collection.
Pro tip:
When visiting the Polygon Gallery, stroll along the waterfront after your gallery experience. Don’t forget to bring your camera; the reflections in the water and the vibrant sky colors create perfect photo opportunities!
4. Vancouver Public Library
Media credit: vancouverpubliclibrary
Website: http://www.vpl.ca/
Address: 350 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6B 6B1
Contact details: +16043313603
Operating hours: 9:30 AM–8:30 PM
The Vancouver Public Library is a striking example of modern architecture designed by Moshe Safdie. Opened in 1995, it features a unique design resembling a contemporary coliseum with a multi-story colonnade and a grand urban room.
This space serves as a tranquil study area and a vibrant community hub, seamlessly integrating retail and public services within its nine-story structure. The design encourages engagement, inviting visitors to enjoy coffee and browse books.
Pro tip:
When visiting the Vancouver Public Library, explore the upper levels, where you can find stunning city views from the reading room. Don’t forget to check out the art installations throughout the library!
5. Bloedel Conservatory
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Website: http://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/bloedel-conservatory.aspx
Address: 4600 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Y 2M4
Contact details: +16042578584
Operating hours: 10 AM–5 PM
The Bloedel Conservatory is located at the summit of Queen Elizabeth Park in Vancouver. This iconic dome, constructed from 1,490 plexiglass bubbles, houses over 500 exotic plants and more than 100 vibrant birds.
The conservatory is divided into three distinct climatic zones: tropical rainforest, subtropical rainforest, and desert. Its unique design serves as a habitat for these species and provides awareness of the importance of biodiversity and conservation.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on the gift shop, where you can find unique souvenirs to remember your visit. Plan your visit for stunning photographs, such as running pictures in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer.
6. Telus Garden
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Website: https://telusgarden.com/
Address: 510 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6B 0M3
Contact details: +16049790600
Operating hours: 6 AM–7 PM
TELUS Garden is a remarkable mixed-use development located in downtown Vancouver. It comprises a 24-story office tower and a 47-story residential tower designed by Henriquez Partners Architects.
TELUS Garden also features a curved glass pavilion that captures rainwater for irrigation. It has achieved LEED Platinum certification for the office tower and LEED Gold for the residential tower, making it one of the greenest buildings in North America.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the unique cantilevered office spaces that extend over the sidewalks. These areas provide stunning architectural perspectives and an engaging atmosphere for spontaneous meetings.
7. VanDusen Botanical Garden Visitor Centre
Media credit: vandusengarden
Website: https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/vandusen-botanical-garden.aspx
Address: 5251 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6M 4H1
Contact details: +16042578463
Operating hours: 9 AM–5 PM
Inspired by the organic forms of a native orchid, VanDusen Botanical Garden Visitor Centre’s undulating green roof “petals” float above curved rammed earth walls. The complex geometry is achieved through innovative prefabrication techniques.
Inside, the warm wood slatted ceiling and curved walls evoke the gills of a mushroom, while the central skylight oculus serves as a natural ventilation system. My personal favorite is the 30-meter curved bench in the lobby, made from milled reclaimed timber.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the chance to explore the surrounding gardens, where the building’s vegetated land ramps connect the roof to the ground plane, encouraging local fauna to use the space and promoting biodiversity.
8. Jameson House
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Website: http://jamesonhouse.com/
Address: 838 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6C 1C8
Contact details: +16047822614
Jameson House is a striking 35-storey mixed-use tower in Vancouver’s heritage district. Designed by the renowned Foster + Partners, it revitalizes the urban landscape and incorporates two restored Art Deco buildings from the 1920s.
The tower features a unique design with four curving bays. Its innovative approach combines living, working, and shopping spaces, promoting a sustainable urban lifestyle while balancing energy consumption and environmental impact.
Pro tip:
Enjoy a coffee at the nearby JJ Bean café in the historic Marine Building. Not only will you savor a delicious brew, but you’ll also appreciate the stunning architectural details of one of Vancouver’s most iconic buildings.
9. Harbour Centre
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Address: 555 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6B 4N6
Contact details: +16046897304
Operating hours: 10 AM–6 PM
The Harbour Centre, completed in 1977, is a hallmark of Vancouver’s modern architecture. It reaches 147 meters and features the distinctive Vancouver Lookout, an observation deck that offers 360-degree views of the city, mountains, and ocean.
The building’s modernist design is characterized by its cylindrical shape, which contrasts beautifully with the surrounding landscape. The revolving restaurant at the top provides diners with a constantly changing city panorama.
Pro tip:
Make sure to time your visit for sunset. The views from the Vancouver Lookout during this magical hour are unforgettable as the city lights twinkle against a vibrant sky.
10. Vancouver Convention Centre
Media credit: vanconventions
Website: https://www.vancouverconventioncentre.com/
Address: 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0C3
Contact details: +16046898232
The Vancouver Convention Centre is known for being the world’s first convention center to achieve LEED Platinum certification. It occupies a remarkable 14 acres of land and extends 8 acres over water, creating a functional convention venue and a public plaza.
Its most striking feature is the six-acre living roof, Canada’s largest of its kind. This roof hosts approximately 400,000 Indigenous plants and supports local wildlife, including honeybees, contributing to the center’s culinary offerings.
Pro tip:
Walk along the waterfront promenade that surrounds the convention center. It offers stunning views of the harbor and mountains, and you’ll also find art installations and vibrant public spaces that enhance your experience.
