VANCOUVER METAL
ARTS ASSOCIATION
Facility Plan for the Vancouver Metal Arts Hub
This phase of the project identified the physical requirements, location considerations, and regulatory challenges involved in building the Vancouver Metal Arts Hub: an artist-led, culturally grounded infrastructure project rooted in equity and community need.
Authored by:
Matt Hessey, Hessey Consulting + Architecture
About this phase
Phase Three of the VMAA Metal Arts Hub Feasibility Study explores what a permanent home for jewellery and metal arts in Vancouver could look like. Drawing on extensive consultation, architectural analysis, and policy review, this facility plan identifies the space, design, and site needs of an artist-run, community-serving production hub.
The accompanying technical report by Hessey Consulting + Architecture is for architects, developers, urban planners, and designers. It features notes on zoning, land use, and electrical and other specs for equipment common in metals spaces.
Inside the Report
Facility Plan Executive Summary
Areas of Focus
Part Three
Facility Overview
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Shared studio & lock-off studios
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Casting and polishing rooms
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Gallery and multipurpose room
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Reception/admin and technical support areas
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Lounge, retail, and resource library
Programs Supported:
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Equipment access and tool sharing
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Courses, demos, lectures
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Mentorship and residencies
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Exhibitions, pop-ups, and artist markets
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Production services (casting, laser engraving, CAD/3D, repair)
Key Takeaways
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This is one of the few cultural space plans in Canada to integrate reconciliation into both space design and operational planning.
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The Hub is intended to serve the metal arts community as well as provide a model for other disciplines.
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Long-term success hinges on site fit, permitting readiness, and support from partners and funders.
Site & Zoning considerations
Key Site Needs:
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At least 3,800 sq. ft. of useable space
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Centrally located in Downtown, Mount Pleasant, Strathcona, or Granville Island
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Must allow Artist Studio – Class B or more intensive uses
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Preferably a long-term non-market lease
Barriers Addressed:
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Complex permitting (zoning, occupancy)
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Hazardous materials bylaws
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Accessibility code upgrades
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Artist displacement due to redevelopment
Potential Opportunity Sites
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522 Malkin Ave (Strathcona) – 6,500 ft², non-market lease, RFP Fall 2024
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889 Drake St (Downtown) – 9,800 ft², shared cultural facility, RFP Fall 2024
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Granville Island Maker Spaces – Small spaces, federal jurisdiction, limited fit-out
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VCC Broadway Campus – Strategic alignment with education partners
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Artist Studio Density Bonus Sites – New program with potential in Mount Pleasant and South Vancouver
Explore Other Phases
Our Supporters
This project would not have been possible without the funding from the City of Vancouver (Cultural Services) and the Province of British Columbia (BC Arts Council)
