The project was previously rejected by the city in 2017 amid community concern about the tall building’s architectural disconnect with historic Chinatown and the lack of social housing, which has continued to motivate opposition. Proponents, on the other hand, believe the project will economically revitalize the area.
On one hand, Chinatown does have a certain aesthetic.
On the other hand, that aesthetic exists because it was needed to keep Chinese communities alive. It’s no longer needed today.
Vancouver Chinatown is the second (or third) oldest Chinatown in North America after San Francisco (and maybe Victoria). Beside of the Chinese community living there since generations, it is a popular tourist attraction and a unique neighbourhood its own character that you can’t find in Richmond (or anywhere else in VGA) in this form.
IMO, it would be a shame to stamp out this uniqueness and replace it with the same style of glass and steel towers with the same style and look that you can find anywhere else. There are ways to build up and provide more living space, while retaining the character at street level if must be.