leləm̓ Blue-Green Systems

Water is a defining element of the leləm̓ landscape, shaping both ecological performance and everyday experience. The site is at the headwaters of two important Musqueam Creeks, the Salish Creek leading to Burrard Inlet and Cut Throat Creek leading to the Fraser River. 

Working in close collaboration with the Musqueam Nation, PWL along with the civil engineer led the master planning of the site-wide blue-green systems, establishing an integrated landscape approach to how water is captured, conveyed, and expressed across the community. During implementation, PWL and the broader consultant team worked together on the key components and focused on integrating these systems within the shared spaces. 

Bioswales and surface systems collect runoff from streets, roofs, and open spaces, slowing and filtering water as it moves through the community. These systems are shaped as visible and accessible landscape features—supporting planting, enhancing biodiversity, and creating seasonal expression while contributing to long-term climate resilience. 

The landscape is shaped by the protection of the headwaters of two salmon-bearing creeks, with rainwater conveyed through the place to a central wetland system that forms a key component of the broader ecological framework. The wetland also serves as a place of cultural expression, integrating Indigenous art and reflecting Musqueam values within the landscape. 

Rather than being hidden infrastructure, water is brought into the landscape, reinforcing a connection between people, culture, and natural processes, with moments of cultural expression embedded within the public realm through a site-wide public art program developed with Indigenous artists. 

PWL’s work focuses on integrating these systems within the public realm shared spaces across the community—supporting both environmental performance and the character of the community while contributing to a more resilient and adaptable landscape over time.