Blood Alley Plaza
In 2023, the City of Vancouver and Giveback BC partnered to revitalize Blood Alley Plaza—an iconic laneway nestled in the heart of Vancouver’s historic Gastown. Designed as a multifunctional public space, the goal was to create a durable, low-maintenance, and visually appealing plaza that could accommodate both pedestrians and light vehicular traffic, while also supporting sustainable stormwater management.
PRODUCT SELECTION
To meet the demands of this project, a combination of high-performance ROMEX products was selected:
- TRASS BED provided a stable, permeable bedding layer for both granite and brick pavers.
- ADHESION ELUTRIANT was used to securely bond the pavers to the TRASS BED without compromising permeability.
- D1 Jointing offered a pressure-washable, durable jointing solution that allows water to pass through while resisting cracking and weed growth.
Together, these products delivered a complete, bonded system engineered for longevity, permeability, and aesthetic value.
PROJECT LOCATION
Blood Alley Vancouver, BC
PROJECT NEEDS
The plaza needed to fulfill several key performance requirements:
- Support for both pedestrian and vehicular traffic without shifting or failure.
- Permeability to handle rainfall efficiently and prevent surface pooling.
- Ease of maintenance, especially resistance to damage from regular pressure washing.
- Durability under frequent public use, including events and performances.
- Aesthetic integration with the surrounding heritage character of the neighborhood.
PROJECT SOLUTION
The final solution featured nearly 5,000 square feet of granite and brick pavers set on
ROMEX TRASS BED, bonded with ADHESION ELUTRIANT, and jointed with ROMEX D1 GROUT. The system created a smooth, safe, and stable surface that meets all municipal requirements for water permeability and public safety.
To enhance sustainability, soil cells were installed beneath the paving to support healthy tree growth and further improve water infiltration. The result is a robust, low-maintenance space that is as functional as it is beautiful—frequently used for musical performances and community gatherings.
Blood Alley Plaza now stands as a showcase for how permeable hardscape systems can meet both aesthetic and technical demands in high-traffic urban settings.
Multifunctional Public Plaza
Vancouver, BC
2023
City of San Francisco, Port of San Francisco
Commercial
