FoodFlorence LJuly 22, 2025EllipsisFood, Cocktail Lounge, Vancouver Cocktails

A NEW SPACE TO SLOW DOWN || Ellipsis Brings Coffee, Cocktails, and Community to Arthur Erickson’s Iconic Building

FoodFlorence LJuly 22, 2025EllipsisFood, Cocktail Lounge, Vancouver Cocktails

Vancouver is set to welcome a new coffee and cocktail concept promoting taking the time to pause, gather, and connect, opening later this summer.

Anchored in inspiring customers to stop, sit, and stay a while, Ellipsis is a dual-bar establishment that combines coffee, cocktails, and community under one design masterpiece.

*A spot to get your caffeine fix and marvel at the redesign of the space within the iconic Waterfall Building.*

Positioned inside one of the final works of late Canadian architect Arthur Erickson, the reimagined space sits within The Waterfall Building, designed in 1996 in collaboration with Nick Milkovich. The geometrically striking building was initially conceived as an art gallery, and is defined by its soaring triangular form, abundant natural light, and a tranquil courtyard with a waterfall. Featuring expansive concrete walls and a dramatic glass canopy, the unique design encourages natural light to flood the interior, resulting in a beautifully quiet but assertive spatial presence.

Designed to be a retreat from the hustle, “Ellipsis” symbolizes the ebb and flow of time, endless possibilities and the undefined potential of each individual experience. “In a world that moves faster and faster, I wanted to create a space that invites us to slow down, to pause, to meet in the moment,” explains owner Ming Yang. “It’s a café, it’s a bar, but more than that, it’s a space for presence, connection and meaning.”

Located on the outskirts of Granville Island, the 2,882-square-foot, 47-seat space is the brainchild of Ming Yang, a renowned café owner with years of hands-on experience in crafting intentional, community-rooted hospitality. While this venture celebrates a completely new offering, the level of care and service will remain the same.

*The cocktail bar illuminated with elegant under-lighting.*

The thoughtful redesign pays tribute to the original modernist architecture and was led by SML Studio Architecture, in collaboration with Tetherstone Construction, to capture Erikson’s vision. Brushed stainless steel surfaces, geometric millwork, and primary shapes (such as circles, triangles, and rectangles) echo Erickson’s formal language. At the same time, reflective elements are balanced with natural materials, such as wood and fabric, to evoke warmth and a sense of comfort. Burnt orange upholstery and warm ambient lighting soften the structural tones, and mirrors at the base of the feature bars extend the sense of continuity and spatial openness.

The fact that it’s close to Granville Island, our favourite spot in the city to spend our sunny weekends, makes it an ideal stop at the end of our outing to savour and sip a delicious handcrafted cocktail. Stay up to date on the latest news about Ellipsis by following @ellispis.ca on Instagram.