In the heart of downtown Vancouver, The Rec Room Granville stands as a vibrant story of renewal; a multi-level destination where the city’s storied past meets a bold new vision for social connection. Housed within a historic structure on Granville Street, this adaptive reuse project reclaims and reanimates one of Vancouver’s most recognizable corners, transforming it into a dynamic cultural playground for Cineplex Entertainment.
Building on mackaywong’s long-standing partnership with Cineplex and the national success of The Rec Room brand, the Granville location represents an evolution of the concept, one that deeply reflects its urban context. Rooted in Granville Street’s legacy as “Theatre Row” and the neon-lit entertainment corridor of mid-century Vancouver, the design celebrates the artistry, movement, and communal energy that have defined this district for over a century.
Across its three levels, The Rec Room Granville unfolds as a curated experience of play, performance, and connection. The ground floor, dubbed The Stage Reimagined, pays homage to Granville’s theatrical heritage with layered lighting, cinematic textures, and a sense of reveal that welcomes guests as both audience and actor. The second floor, The Heart of Granville, captures the pulse of the street through expressive colour, glowing hues, and dynamic gestures that echo the rhythm of the city’s nightlife. Beneath it all, The Palms introduces a wholly new dimension to the brand, an immersive mini-golf and social lounge inspired by the historic Palms Hotel, blending coastal leisure with urban play in a laid-back, endlessly summer atmosphere.
From large-scale environmental graphics and signage to curated artifacts and commissioned murals, storytelling drives every aspect of the design. The result is an environment that feels both cinematic and authentic, a reflection of Vancouver’s creative spirit and Cineplex’s commitment to evolving entertainment experiences.
The Rec Room Granville is more than a destination; it’s a love letter to the city’s cultural identity. Through craft, collaboration, and a deep respect for place, mackaywong transformed a heritage building into a vibrant new stage, one that celebrates Vancouver’s enduring passion for performance, community, and play.
Photography by Eric Scott
