GBL Architects

Heather Lands Masterplan

The Heather Lands are situated on the unceded traditional territories the xʷmәθkʷәy̓әm (Musqueam), sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and sәlilwәtaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. A Cultural Interpretive Plan provided a foundational source of inspiration and insight for the masterplan.

This masterplan builds on a previous rezoning application approved by Vancouver City Council in 2022. The site will include 4,250 units with 85% priced below market value as well as a childcare facility, school, mixed retail, significant public art contribution program, and MST cultural centre.

Heather Lands will include a mix of uses to support a vibrant and animated urban design and is organized into key Character Areas. The “Drum Beat / Heart” is a place where the intensity of public life unfolds. The MST Cultural Centre and a large open space are the anchor point of this character area. The other areas include “Homes in the Forest,” “Teaching,” “Homes in the Village,” and “Meeting Point.”

An animated and welcoming public realm is at the heart of the Heather Lands and includes 4.4 acres of park and open space, a forest trail, and interconnected greenspaces that enhance biodiversity, provide valuable pollinator habitat, facilitate rainwater management, and connect the public to nature.

Location
Vancouver, BC

Client
MST Development Corporation, Canada Lands Trust, Aquilini Group

Size
 21 acres

Status
Pre-Construction

Typology
Attainable Housing Initiative (AHI), Market Residential, Social, Retail, Childcare, Cultural Centre

Sustainability
Rezoning Policy for Sustainable Large Developments, Greenest City Action Plan