Coffee, Cocktails and Community: Ellipsis Set to Launch in Vancouver

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 combining coffee, cocktails, and community under one design masterpiece.

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 originally 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 knowledge 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 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 (circles, triangles and rectangles) echo Erickson’s formal language, while reflective elements are balanced with natural materials such as wood and fabric to evoke warmth and comfort. Burnt orange upholstery and warm ambient lighting softens the structural tones, and mirrors at the base of the feature bars extend the sense of continuity and spatial openness.

To stay up to date on the latest news about Ellipsis, follow @ellispis.ca on Instagram.

Hours: Daily from 9 am – 11 pm.
Location: 205-1540 W 2nd Ave, Vancouver, V6J 1H2