A Hybrid Parking Structure

In Calgary, Alberta, two architects have come up with a hybrid parking ramp that could convert into an office building or residential building. The article, “Today, it’s a multistory parking lot. Tomorrow, it could be your new home”, outlines the innovative structure. The parking ramp, 9th Avenue Parkcade, currently has 510 parking spots, but it has the ability to convert into a 600 person office or 50 unit residential building.

Already, the first two floors of the building have been turned into an innovation center and the top floor has been converted into a venue for wedding photography. The secret to the hybrid building is in its footprint. The footprint has to be long and oval so the grade isn’t as steep as a traditional ramp. A traditional ramp has a steep, spiral element that you drive up until you park with. The long span of the oval shape, about 500 feet, allows the grade from one level to another to flatten out, to be about 1% to 2%. If the building was converted to a residential use, the floors would have to be topped to become completely flat. However, compared to a traditional ramp that can be up to 5 degrees steep, that’s pretty easy! Also, the entrance to the building is bolted on, so it can be easily removed later.

It remains to be seen whether or not the ramp will be fully converted into something other than parking. However, it’s a pretty cool building and an innovative concept. With offices still in a limbo phase, and a housing shortage, I think it’s important to build structures that can be adapted if needed.

Check out the article for more information and pictures!

-Jess