Promontory Park

Vancouver, British Columbia | 2021-2023

Nestled just north of Marine Way and west of Boundary Road, Promontory Park transforms what was once an empty lot into a vibrant, nature-inspired playground. This 0.3-hectare park celebrates the Northern Flicker, a distinctive bird, with a massive, climbable sculpture that invites children to peer from the bird’s eyes before sliding down its tail into a playground filled with adventure.

The park's main attraction is a giant Northern Flicker sculpture made from sustainable Robinia wood. Kids can climb inside the bird’s body, navigate internal netting to its head, and gaze out from its eyes before zooming down the stainless-steel slide tail. The bird’s wings, equipped with climbing handholds, add to the excitement, all set on a rubber mound that leads to the upper play area.

Promontory Park's design honours the Northern Flicker with bird-themed features throughout. From the bird slide to bird-shaped bike racks, the park is filled with avian-inspired touches, including egg-shaped pebble designs in the walkways and themed play equipment like log steppers, bog stilts, and leaf wobble boards. The playground surface mimics the Northern Flicker’s plumage, providing a beautiful and accessible space for all children.

A tiny bridge spans a dry creek bed leading to a sandbox, inviting kids to dig and play with toys brought by neighbours. The dry creek bed around the site not only adds a natural boundary but also absorbs stormwater, with boulders acting as check dams during heavy rainfall. Large and small lawns, new trees, and shrubs enhance the park’s ecological value, providing shade and screening traffic noise while maintaining views. The park features sustainable irrigation powered entirely by solar energy.

Designed for family enjoyment, Promontory Park includes accessible picnic tables and benches strategically placed for supervision and relaxation. A basket swing with a Robinia frame allows kids to swing alone or in groups, and a low wall encloses the main playground area, offering seating for caregivers.

The park was brought to life through close collaboration with various experts and interested parties. Working with structural, geotechnical, and civil engineers ensured the site’s stability and efficient stormwater management. Feedback from the City of Vancouver and residents shaped the park's final design, ensuring it met community needs and preferences.

Promontory Park stands as a playful tribute to nature, transforming an empty lot into a beloved community space. Its imaginative design and thoughtful amenities provide a delightful escape for families, where kids can play, explore, and connect with the natural world.