A Look Inside Our
Waterfront Station Project

Commercial Painting Vancouver: Canada’s Best Painters Revitalize the Legendary Waterfront Station

When it comes to commercial painting in Vancouver, few projects embody the city’s spirit quite like our latest masterpiece—the breathtaking transformation of Waterfront Station. This iconic transit hub, pulsating at the heart of downtown, serves as a bridge between Vancouver’s rich past and its dynamic future.

 

At Canada’s Best Painters, we take immense pride in being the trusted name for large-scale painting projects that redefine spaces and elevate architectural beauty. Waterfront Station, a historic landmark, demanded nothing short of excellence, precision, and craftsmanship—and we delivered.

Historic Restoration

Preserving the classic beauty of Waterfront Station while giving it a fresh, modern touch.

maintenance

Expert Surface Preparation

Ensuring every surface was primed, repaired, and ready for a flawless finish.

paint-spray

Premium Paint & Coatings

Using high-quality, durable paints that withstand the demands of a high-traffic area.

Efficient Execution:

Completing the project on time while minimizing disruptions for commuters and transit staff.

Collaborative Approach

Working closely with Westcoast Express and other stakeholders to maintain safety and efficiency.

Seamless Project
Management & Execution

Your Project,
Done Right

We make your commercial painting experience hassle-free

Dedicated Project Managers

Clear communication from start to finish

Skilled
Painters

Highly trained professional commercial painters delivering flawless results

Premium
Materials

Using only the best coatings for maximum durability

On-Schedule Completion

No delays, no excuses – just results!

Safety First Approach

Our painters follow strict safety protocols to ensure a secure worksite

The Legacy of Waterfront Station

Waterfront Station, nestled in the heart of downtown Vancouver, is more than just a transportation hub. Opened in 1914 as the terminus for the Canadian Pacific Railway, this historic building now connects the city through multiple transit systems, including SkyTrain, Westcoast Express, and CN Rail.

 

The station is a gateway to the city and beyond, serving thousands of commuters daily. Its classic architecture, combined with its bustling functionality, makes it a unique challenge for restoration and maintenance. This is where Canada’s Best Painters entered the picture, chosen by Westcoast Express to lead the commercial painting and maintenance efforts.

About Westcoast Express

Westcoast Express, a commuter rail service, has been pivotal in connecting Vancouver with its surrounding areas since 1995. Known for its reliability and commitment to passenger safety, Westcoast Express operates out of Waterfront Station as a key hub. Over the years, the company has demonstrated a strong commitment to preserving the station’s historical significance while maintaining modern functionality. Partnering with them was a privilege, reflecting our shared values of quality, precision, and care.

Preparing for a Flawless Finish:
The Key Steps

Power Washing:
The First Essential Step

Before any painting could begin, a thorough power washing was performed to ensure:

Removal of Dirt & Grime

Eliminating built-up dust and pollutants

Oil & Contaminant Removal

Preventing adhesion issues for a lasting finish

A Clean, Paint-Ready Surface

Ensuring the best possible foundation for coatings

Window Cleaning:
A Detailed Approach

The station’s historic windows required specialized care to maintain their classic appeal. Our team used:

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solutions

Safe for glass and the environment

Specialized Equipment

Ensuring every pane was spotless and streak-free

Attention to Detail

Matching the clean, refreshed look of the entire project

Surface Repairs:
A Smooth Foundation for Painting

To achieve a flawless, professional finish, we repaired minor surface imperfections:

Crack & Chip Repairs

Restoring a smooth, even surface

Reinforcement of Weak Areas

Ensuring long-term durability

Maximized Paint Adhesion

A properly prepped surface enhances paint longevity

The Painting Process:
Protection & Longevity

Direct-to-Metal
(DTM) Painting:
Superior Metal Protection

The station’s metal surfaces required high-performance coatings to withstand Vancouver’s coastal climate. Our process included:

Primer Application

  • High-performance bonding primer for strong adhesion
  • Prevented corrosion and extended the life of the topcoat

High-performance bonding primer for strong adhesion

  • Weather-resistant, long-lasting finish
  • Durable coating to prevent rust and wear
  • Color matched to maintain architectural authenticity

Colour Matching
& Historic Preservation

Waterfront Station’s historic character was a priority throughout the project. We worked closely with:

Architects & Preservationists

Ensuring historical accuracy

Color Matching Experts

Reproducing the original heritage palette

Classic Detailing

Highlighting the building’s timeless beauty

Challenges & How We Overcame Them

Weather

Vancouver’s Unpredictable Climate

Closely monitored forecasts to schedule optimal painting times

Used weather-resistant coatings to minimize drying issues

Adjusted workflows to prevent rain-related setbacks

High-Traffic Area

Managing a Bustling Transit Hub

Scheduled work during off-peak hours to reduce disruption

Set up safety barriers & signage for clear navigation

Coordinated with station management for seamless operations

Preserving

A Heritage Site

Used specialized materials & techniques to protect historic elements

Ensured minimal alteration while refreshing the station’s look

Applied restoration-grade coatings designed for heritage properties

Bringing Waterfront Station

Back to Life

Through expert preparation, strategic planning, and historical precision, our team delivered a flawless commercial painting project at one of Vancouver’s most iconic landmarks.

The Final Result: A Stunning
Transformation at Waterfront Station

The completed project at Waterfront Station restored this iconic landmark to its former glory.

Enhanced Protection

Metal surfaces are now shielded against weather and wear

Crystal-Clear Windows

Improved visibility and a polished, refined look

Historic Preservation

A refreshed appearance that respects the station’s rich heritage

Community Impact

Commuters, tourists, and staff have praised the station’s renewed beauty

Vancouver Commercial Painting: Train Station Painting