Let's hope the design work results in a less boxy structure.

The exterior design will be largely the same as what was approved in the Development Permit. Any differences (and I mean anything) has to be approved by Planning, and if the differences are substantial it would trigger a brand new DP application for general compliance.

That said, there are usually a lot of small differences between the proposal and the final product. I recently did the Building Permit review for a Concord Pacific project here, and it sprouted a third rooftop electric room, double-height elevator overruns, completely re-organized window and spandrel patterns, and about 150% more mechanical louvres for ventilation. Even with all that we let it through with just staff review, the overall design was deemed consistent with the issued DP.

The exterior design will be largely the same as what was approved in the Development Permit...

I realize that. It was just wishful thinking on my part.

Click here to view attachment.

The 800-block of Fort Street, known for generations as Antique Row for its collection of antique, used furniture and vintage houseware retailers, will undergo significant change in the coming years as multiple mixed-use development efforts aim to revive the business opportunities along the commercial corridor.

Victorians asked to weigh in on future of Fort Street's 'Antique Row' retail make-up as new devs lead storefront revival
https://victoria.citified.ca/news/victorians-asked-to-weigh-in-on-future-of-fort-street-s-antique-row-retail-make-up-as-new-devs-lead-storefront-revival/

So is construction still expected to start in early 2021?

Aaaaaaaand they're back.

Application submitted to amend the issued DP. Commercial area reduced slightly (a mezzanine), and replaced with two addtional residential units (1BR and 2BR).

This would bring the unit count up to 105. As such, the parking shortfall is also increased, which requires Council to issue a revised parking variance as staff do not have the authority to do so.