Alan Hart:
"When the stations for the Expo Line were built the designers took a 'kit of parts' approach, which resulted in a series of similar-looking stations. For the Millennium Line we wanted something different, something unique. We recognized that SkyTrain stations could be so much more than just places to get off and on the train. They could be the focus of tremendous community pride if they were designed properly." ~ Alan Hart

Graham McGarva:
On time on budget and universally acclaimed for contextual elegance, VIA's direction of the Millennium Line design and process represents community building at its prime. Having led the functional plans and urban design for all 17 stations, and provided owner's representation through construction for 14, VIA carried through its vision for the 3 Vancouver Stations, including the interchange at Commercial.

That vision was to light beacons for community development.

The innovative plan offset of Rupert and Renfrew's side platforms present a welcoming embrace for patrons and passers-by. The roof canopies' aerodynamic outline integrate steel and engineered wood with a feel and texture that tempers the high tech approach of the automated transit system. Conceived as siblings, one's roof is cantilevered and one spans the tracks. From this dna their designs evolved. Renfrew's cantilevers grew up to take on the personality of a sinuous ribbon, in response to which the new access road curved in parallel. Rupert is more characteristic of a butterfly or leaf resting on a stone beside Still Creek.

While the industrial communities are yet to regenerate around this neighbouring pair, nestled in Grandview Cut's reclaimed landscape, the focus of Commercial Station's tree house, was not so much arcadian as community re-connection and repair. The pressures of transient drug traffickers and lack of overlooking eyes on the street, made the reclamation of community a primary focus at commercial and Broadway.

Accordingly VIA went beyond the box and engendered unanimous community support for rezoning the station for 20,000 square feet of associated development. Following the community lead the City and Translink successfully implemented the development that opened concurrently with the station. This pioneering bridge between the commercial and engineering cultures is seamless for the users as was intended, but its success has sparked a sea change in consideration of TOD in the region. Flower sellers have now replaced drug dealers, as our collaboration achieved the rebirth of community spirit for this long blighted corner of the City.