Vancouver, BC

Client   Westbank Corp. (in partnership with Nch’kaỷ Development Corporation)
Type   Mixed-Use Residential
Size   4 million sq.ft.
Status   Schematic Design

Sen̓áḵw

In a momentous milestone for indigenous economic development, the Squamish Nation has entered into a long-term 50-50 partnership with private developer, Westbank, to build a 6,000-unit mixed-use community development on Vancouver’s False Creek waterfront directly across from the city’s downtown. Located at the south end of the Burrard Street Bridge, the 11.7-acre site is a slice of what was once a 34-hectare parcel of reserve lands known as ‘Sen̓áḵw’ (“the place inside the head of False Creek”) which was an important hub for trade, commerce, social relationships, and cultural practices.

While stringent City of Vancouver zoning bylaws limit most buildings in the Kitsilano area to five storeys, the First Nation can develop reserve land independent of traditional zoning and lengthy application and review processes. This landmark development—planned as primarily rental—comprises 12 towers, the tallest of which will be 56 storeys. With a total floor area of 4 million sq.ft., the project will be built in several phases over five years.

With its goal of a low-impact carbon footprint, the development highlights the rich, natural elements of land and sea integral to Indigenous culture, fusing the social, cultural, environmental, and economic drivers of sustainability. Sen̓áḵw’s residential density will be supported by community parks, commercial and amenity spaces incorporated into the landscape at ground level, on accessible rooftops, and in the buildings.

Revery is proud to collaborate on this notable project that will transform the area at the south end of Burrard Bridge, creating a new skyline on the False Creek waterfront, and will contribute significant rental and affordable housing stock to Vancouver’s historically tight inventory.