At the heart of Burnaby’s evolving town centre, a new kind of neighbourhood is taking shape. Brentwood Block is not just a development, it’s a reimagining of what an urban community can be. Anchored by the vision of pedestrian-first living, this 7.9-acre master plan introduces a wholly new model for city building in Metro Vancouver.

Steps from the Brentwood Town Centre SkyTrain station, this once-asphalted stretch of Burnaby is being transformed into a vibrant, car-free public realm. It’s a bold commitment, the largest in North America for developer Grosvenor to date, and a signal of intent: that cities can grow and still prioritize human scale, public space and connection.

With 3,500 new homes, including 2,450 rentals, Brentwood Block sets a new standard for inclusive urban living. The community will be home to Western Canada’s tallest purpose-built rental tower, over 60 storeys, all accessed underground to preserve the pedestrian flow above. Here, green space is not an afterthought but the foundation. Over half the site is dedicated to open-air courtyards, landscaped trails, and public plazas—designed as much for the people of Burnaby as for those who will call Brentwood Block home.

This is city-building with purpose. Of the homes delivered, 450 will be below-market rentals, offered at 20% below CMHC median rates, in alignment with Burnaby’s non-market housing goals. It’s an investment not just in buildings, but in the fabric of a growing city.

Sustainability is deeply embedded in the plan. The community is designed to exceed the City of Burnaby’s green building requirements, aiming for Net Zero Operational Carbon by 2030 through low-carbon systems, efficient building envelopes and all-electric interiors. Think 100% electric appliances, LED lighting, and smart thermostats, all supporting a 40% improvement beyond BC Step Code 2 Low Carbon.

Once complete, Brentwood Block will also host 250,000 SF of curated commercial space, from local retailers to community-focused cafes and workspaces. An $8 million public art program will thread its way throughout the neighbourhood, with each piece adding texture and narrative to a place that welcomes everyone.

And while the scale is impressive, the spirit of Brentwood Block remains grounded: a neighbourhood built for people. Through over 60 community events hosted onsite between 2020 and 2022, drawing more than 50,000 visitors, Grosvenor has made it clear this is more than a development. It’s a destination. A place for living, gathering, and belonging.