Exploring the Architecture of the New Hotel McGibbon
It’s easy to get riled up about art, music or politics, but few disciplines can cause as much controversy as architecture. And rightfully so. The design of our homes, businesses, schools, hospitals, places of worship and other buildings and infrastructure elements in our community makes a huge impact on our lives. We live in, with and amongst these structures for our lifetimes. We see them every day. They become our landmarks, our meeting places, and where we create our memories.
When it comes to design, nothing defines a community quite like exceptional architecture. Think New York City’s Guggenheim, Dubai’s Burj al Arab, The Sydney Opera House – there are hundreds of examples of buildings that imbue a city with personality and charm. Suffice to say, that with memorable architecture comes a visible sense of rhythm; a visual communing with its surrounding. As Frank Lloyd Wright once said, “Every great architect is necessarily a great poet. He must be a great original interpreter of his time, his day, his age.”
Enter the newly reinvented Hotel McGibbon, a project that celebrates modern design through a skilful blend of contemporary architecture and historical preservation. The Hotel McGibbon is Georgetown’s most exciting, new “mixed use” development. The design by Studio JCI is nothing short of beautiful.
“Our team fell in love with Georgetown and the rich history of the Hotel McGibbon. We set out to honour the incredible legacy of this iconic landmark by restoring its original, handsome façade. At the same time, we wanted to offer residents a spectacular modern lifestyle, immersing them in nature and the atmosphere. We believe our design brings the past and the future together boldly. We hope and trust everyone will take great pride in it.”
Jaegap Chung, Principal, Studio JCI
The McGibbon design goes far beyond the “mandatory” urban design requirements. It demonstrates that a healthy building is not just about clean air and safety—but also creates emotional health and comfort, on the inside and out. Hence the “cascading terraces” and upscale interiors drenched in natural light. Future residents report that they love the idea of living in brightly lit homes with views and terraces that connect them to nature and absorb them with a sense of calm and wellbeing.
Despite the large-scale boldness of its design, the architectural vision demonstrates a sensitivity to pedestrians and a mastery of details, too. These “little things,” like hidden courtyards and beautiful gathering nooks, are easy to miss, but will greatly enrich the lives of McGibbon’s residents. If you care to explore these details, stop by to tour the presentation centre at Main and Mill!
Ultimately, the SilverCreek team views The Residences of the Hotel McGibbon as part of our lives, our community and our future. SilverCreek builds for communities, not just in them. They’ve partnered with a creative team who shares their ambition to bring ‘artful living’ to Georgetown. They’ve designed a building that’s meant to inspire pride in all of us. SilverCreek will ensure it does.
