A couple of months ago, we explored Vancouver’s vibrant cosmopolitan charm - a defining quality that firmly places it among Canada’s premier travel destinations. We also took a closer look at the dynamic new Oakridge Park mixed-use development. We were so fascinated by the development’s potential that we decided to get some inside information about what it has in store.
Irene Quan, Vice President of Marketing at Oakridge Park, was kind enough to answer our questions about what makes this project so special.
What differentiates Oakridge Park from other mixed-use developments in Vancouver regarding lifestyle and long-term value?
Oakridge Park stands apart from other mixed-use developments in Vancouver by reimagining what it means to live, work and play in a single, connected environment. More than a functional urban hub, it’s designed as a cultural landmark - a vibrant destination where lifestyle, community and creativity come together seamlessly across five million square feet.
What sets Oakridge apart is its commitment to delivering an aspirational lifestyle that resonates with both locals and visitors and ensures long-term value on every level. As a future landmark for fashion and culture, Oakridge Park is poised to become a must-visit destination, welcoming an impressive lineup of luxury retailers. Maison Margiela, Miu Miu, Christian Louboutin and Alexander Wang will each open their first standalone Vancouver boutiques at the development, further elevating its national and global appeal.
How does the development integrate green spaces and sustainability initiatives into its design?
Oakridge Park integrates green spaces and sustainability initiatives into its design in a deeply intentional way. At the heart of the development is a nine-acre park, forming a lush, biodiverse urban forest that acts as the community’s central gathering space. This green hub features a one-kilometer running loop, community gardens, playgrounds and on-site agriculture.
On the sustainability front, Oakridge Park sets a new benchmark with a comprehensive neighborhood energy system developed by Oakridge Energy (a partnership between Corix and Creative Energy). This system includes a geoexchange field, heat recovery infrastructure and low-carbon electric boilers, resulting in an estimated 72% less overall Greenhouse Gas emissions than a comparable project. That’s the environmental equivalent of planting 160,000 trees annually or removing 1,300 gas-powered cars from the road.
How has the vision for Oakridge Park evolved throughout the development process, and what has influenced those changes, if any?
Building a sustainable master-planned community that embodies the most advanced global experiences in Vancouver’s most livable city sets Oakridge Park apart as a truly visionary development. Our focus is on creating a holistic environment where innovation, environmental responsibility, and quality of life converge seamlessly. From integrating expansive green spaces and biodiverse parks to deploying cutting-edge sustainability initiatives like geoexchange energy systems, Oakridge Park is designed to reduce environmental impact while enhancing residents’ well-being.
This commitment to sustainability is complemented by a thoughtfully curated mix of residential, commercial, and public spaces, fostering a vibrant, inclusive community. By prioritizing connectivity through advanced transportation options and creating a cultural landmark that elevates Vancouver’s global standing, Oakridge Park aims to deliver long-term value and an unparalleled lifestyle that reflects the city’s reputation as a world leader in livability and innovation.
A good number of high-profile luxury brands will open boutiques at Oakridge Park when it is completed. What unique advantages does that give it?
The presence of a wide array of high-profile luxury brands at Oakridge Park - many of which are making their regional or national debuts - positions the development as an unparalleled retail and cultural destination. This unique collection, including first standalone Vancouver boutiques for brands like Maison Margiela, Miu Miu, Christian Louboutin and Alexander Wang, along with Canadian firsts for Chaumet and Jacob & Co., gives Oakridge Park an edge in exclusivity and prestige. It not only attracts shoppers but also elevates Vancouver’s profile on the global luxury stage.
The development aims to be a cultural hub in Vancouver. Can you offer more information about how that will be achieved?
In addition to offering best-in-class retail, living and office space, Oakridge Park will feature a community center, the largest library on Vancouver’s West Side, a nine-acre park, a one-kilometer running loop, a senior and daycare center and more.
What specific transportation/parking facilities are planned for residents and visitors?
Oakridge Park offers a comprehensive and forward-thinking transportation and parking plan designed to meet the needs of modern urban life. Centrally located along Vancouver’s Canada Line, Oakridge Park provides direct access to a high-capacity transit network with over 140,000 daily riders and 45 million annual riders. Residents and visitors will benefit from quick, convenient access to major destinations, including just 15 minutes to both Downtown Vancouver and YVR International Airport and 20 minutes to the University of British Columbia.
For those who choose to drive, Oakridge Park is redefining the automobile experience through a unique, service-oriented approach. Rather than assigning individual parking spaces, the development features a 6,000-car underground garage operated entirely by valet service. This system eliminates the need for residents to own a dedicated parking spot and enhances convenience by offering valet services that include parking, cleaning and 500 Level 2 EV-charging stations by Hypercharge, with a mix of wall-mounted and overhead chargers designed for high-density use. The garage is fully electrified and powered by a zero-carbon energy source, aligning with Oakridge Park’s commitment to sustainability.
How will the development ensure a balanced mix of residential, commercial, and public spaces?
The development ensures a balanced mix of residential, commercial, and public spaces through its comprehensive, master-planned vision. Once complete, Oakridge Park will accommodate over 6,000 residents with 3,000+ residential units, including 1,000 rental units and a diverse mix of luxury, affordable, senior, and market housing—each tower uniquely designed by world-renowned artists and architects.
On the commercial side, Oakridge Park will feature 850,000 square feet of curated retail across 140+ global brands, as well as 700,000 square feet of AAA office space designed for over 3,000 creative economy professionals.
The public realm is equally robust, anchored by one of Vancouver’s largest community centers, one of its busiest libraries, six indoor and outdoor live music venues and a second Canadian location for Time Out Market. Together, these components form a vibrant and integrated community that supports living, working, and cultural engagement in one dynamic location.
What would you say to someone looking for a second home in Vancouver?
Vancouver’s breathtaking natural beauty, outdoor lifestyle and cosmopolitan vibe makes it the ultimate destination for a second home. Oakridge Park perfectly blends world-class design, luxury living and vibrant culture. At Oakridge Park, you’re not just buying a home. You’re becoming part of a dynamic community.
