Yaletown

This project was constructed in 2023 for the Yaletown Business Improvement Association in the Yaletown neighbourhood of Vancouver. The goal was to enhance the public realm by thoughtfully redesigning and installing custom tree wells along Homer Street, Davie Street, and Hamilton Street.

Each tree well was designed to celebrate both place and community by mimicking the historic buildings around the neighborhood. Custom brick detailing was incorporated into every installation, with engraved inspirational words intended to engage passersby and add a meaningful layer to the streetscape. The tree well designs needed to support long term tree health while remaining accessible and visually cohesive with the neighbourhood. This was achieved by creating permeable hardscaping, allowing water to pass through the joints and bonded rocks, keeping the trees hydrated.

Brick tree well during installation, with river rock and white layout templates on the bricks
Close-up of river rock around a tree trunk next to a brick engraved with the word Welcome
Bricks being laid in a tree well, one engraved with the word Create
Brick tree well with black river rock and a brick engraved with the words Be Seen
Brick tree well around a street tree, with black river rock and engraved bricks reading Hope and Be Seen

Working in a busy urban setting required careful coordination to keep pedestrians safe and traffic moving throughout construction.

Storefront planting with hanging flowers and large planters along a city sidewalk

Project Credits