The Bow

The Bow is a skyscraper commercial development completed in 2012. This project is 58 storeys tall, located at 500 Centre Street SE, Calgary, AB.

The Bow stands as a testament to modern architecture and urban development in the heart of Calgary, Alberta. This iconic skyscraper, not only defines the city's skyline but also represents a pivotal moment in Calgary's downtown revitalization, particularly in the East Village area.

Quick Facts:

• Construction Timeline: Began in June 2007 and was completed in 2012.
• Cost: $1.4 billion CAD.
• Floor Count: 58, including 53 office floors, 2 retail floors, and 3 sky gardens.
• Total Floor Area: 2,150,425 sq ft (199,781.0 m2).

Architectural and Design Excellence:

Designed by the renowned Foster + Partners alongside Zeidler Partnership Architects, The Bow is celebrated for its crescent shape and strategic positioning to offer panoramic views of the Bow River. Its construction was a monumental task, featuring Canada's largest continuous concrete pour and incorporating significant portions of the historic York Hotel to preserve Calgary's heritage.

A Hub of Activity:

The Bow serves as a bustling center for business, featuring 53 office floors and additional retail space. It was initially built to house Encana Corporation (now Ovintiv) and has since been the headquarters for notable companies like Cenovus Energy. The building's design includes innovative sky gardens every 18 floors, providing communal spaces that break up the verticality of the office environment.

Public Art and Community Spaces:

At the foot of The Bow, visitors are greeted by "Wonderland," a striking head-shaped sculpture by artist Jaume Plensa. This piece, along with "Alberta's Dream" on the north side, underscores the building's commitment to integrating public art and enhancing the urban landscape.

Connectivity and Accessibility:

The Bow is well-connected to Calgary's +15 Skywalk network, linking it to neighboring buildings like the First Tower and Suncor Energy Centre. A six-level underground parkade, spanning two city blocks, offers ample parking, further integrating the skyscraper into the fabric of downtown Calgary.

A Landmark of Innovation and Growth:

The Bow is more than just a building; it's a symbol of Calgary's ambition and forward-thinking approach to urban development. Its completion marked a significant achievement in architectural design and set the stage for future high-rise developments in the city. As Calgary continues to grow, The Bow remains a beacon of progress, innovation, and community engagement in the downtown core.

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