Resurfacing the Flats: Agency in Revealing the Natural Landscape of False Creek

Abstract

The False Creek Flats in Vancouver, Canada, was originally an estuary condition, where salt and fresh waters mixed creating one of the most productive ecosystems. In the 1850s, its protected water access was appropriated and in the early 20th century it was infilled taking advantage of its topography for industrial purposes. Now this connection needs to be re-established to complete the water cycle system and create a space for people and water. Freshwater, Vancouver’s most abundant natural resource, flows directly into the ocean. In revealing and re-establishing the water cycle’s natural systems, their services are utilized, reinvigorating and reconnecting the city to nature and people to water. Architecture inspired by the natural and built shoreline celebrates temporalities, captures, and activates thresholds between hydrological, ecological, and people flows. The programs of water, stormwater treatment, bridges, and boardwalks reconnect the generations of the Flats to the environmental and cultural past and future.