Around the Corner
Decoding Density Competition Entry (2024)
In 2024, BOP was involved in a Decoding Density Design Competition. This project explores how architectural design can transform lower density, traditionally single-family neighbourhoods by utilizing shared spaces at the block level. The design proposes an eight-storey street wall with a network of shared spaces for the entire community, including a flexible corner space for amenities, retail, or small-scale production.
The building layout uses the courtyard configuration to emphasize natural light, ventilation, and communal areas. The design proposes integrating traditional street-facing facades with open, community-oriented rear spaces, grouping amenities between multiple buildings to reduce redundant amenity space, and encourage neighbourhood interactions.
Around the Corner leverages the current system to reduce restrictions on higher-density housing and provide more affordable strata units, with more connected neighbourhoods for all. Eventually, Vancouver will start to see the formation of higher-density blocks, activated streets and laneways, and stronger community ties… if we are willing to look around the corner.
