Case Studies 

Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

*Nominee 

Livable Laneways Project

Vancouver

British Columbia

Canada

Contributed by 
Project for Public Spaces
 on 
March 10, 2016
May 1, 2024

What makes it Great?

Why it doesn't work?

The Liveable Laneways concept has been simultaneously developing in several Canadian cities like Calgary and Toronto, as well as places in the US, Australia, and beyond. Many of these programs share some core characteristics. Calgary’s project, for instance, in providing a toolkit for grassroots innovators, recommends quality lighting, clustered parking at the ends to free up interior space for pedestrian activities, permeable laneway surfaces, small business creation through underutilized garage space (such as convenience stores and artist spaces), edible landscaping like fruit trees and berry bushes, and laneway housing. Coordinating efforts between the city and neighbors can lead to a strong mix of activities in collectively owned and shared alleyways.

 

Access & Linkages

Comfort & Image

Uses & Activities

Sociability

How Light?

How Quick?

How Cheap?

History & Background

Livable Laneways Project in Vancouver, British Columbia, aims to transform overlooked alleys or "laneways" into vibrant outdoor gathering spaces with a stimulating mix of interventions. These LQC transformations have involved a variety of new activities including art, food, and festivals. As a result, alleys in suburban neighborhoods become more relaxed, bucolic “country lanes” filled with more resident-focused businesses and activities. Once initiated, Vancouver’s relevant Laneway Housing initiative sustains these improvements by permitting small homes, as well as neighborhood businesses like laundromats and work studios, to fill new in-law units along the alleys.

Related Links & Sources

Photo credits, from left: Livable Laneways via Facebook, Livable Laneways via Facebook, Livable Laneways via Facebook

Follow Livable Laneways Project:

Facebook: facebook.com/LivableLaneways

Twitter: @livablelanesvan

Livable Laneways Project
Vancouver laneway before transformation
Livable Laneways Project
Local vendors activate the space
Livable Laneways Project
Livable Laneways Project
Livable Laneways Project
Livable Laneways Project
Livable Laneways Project
Livable Laneways Project

*Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

NOMINATE A PLACE

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