Vancouver-based GBL Architects has completed a 300,000-square-foot building in one of Vancouver’s oldest neighborhoods, Strathcona. The area, historically one of industry, now features a mixed-use development called Strathcona Village, with spaces for residential living as well as light industry.
According to the designers, the building is considered the first of its kind in North America as a complex that creates job opportunities as well as much-needed affordable housing for workers in a unique, sustainable community model. There are 70 units inside, all city-owned social housing, with 23 rented at shelter rates and 17 designed for families with young children. The businesses inside will be limited to PDR (production, distribution and repair) industries.