Commercial Solutions

Project Background

Block 23 is part of the University District development in northwest Calgary, a thriving, mixed-use community that integrates entertainment, retail, dining, office spaces, and public gathering areas. The centrepiece of the development is Block 23, comprising two signature buildings—a four-storey West Building and a five-storey East Building. Together, they offer 175,000 square feet of mixed-use space, housing retail, office areas, restaurants, and a five-theatre Cineplex VIP Cinema, all connected by a common parkade. The Cineplex acts as a central gathering space, fostering a vibrant social atmosphere for the University District.

Block 23 is also situated alongside Central Park, a 3.2-acre public space that includes an outdoor skating rink featuring western Canada’s first CO2 ice plant, amphitheater stages, and year-round amenities like fire pits, play structures, and decorative hardscaping. The park serves as a community hub, providing flexible space for festivals, public events, and recreation throughout the year.

Design Inspiration and Use of Barkman Product:

To enhance the pedestrian spaces and seamlessly connect Block 23 to the surrounding park, Broadway 100mm Pavers and Broadway Planks from Barkman Concrete were selected for their durability and aesthetic appeal. These pavers were used extensively in walkways, plazas, and other public areas, adding a sleek, contemporary look to the hardscaping. With their clean lines and smooth surface, Broadway Pavers complement the mixed-use nature of the space, providing a refined yet functional foundation for high-traffic areas within the district.

The Broadway Pavers also contribute to the project’s emphasis on sustainability. Their low-maintenance design supports the overall vision for a resilient urban space that balances aesthetics, usability, and environmental impact. Whether guiding visitors through Central Park or defining outdoor seating areas for the restaurants, the pavers provide a visually cohesive element that connects the mixed-use buildings with the park.

By integrating Broadway 65mm Pavers, Block 23 has achieved a sophisticated look that aligns with the district’s vision of creating a vibrant, inviting space where community and culture converge.