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Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/1490198
as this and if we have a blueprint they can follow and know, 'Okay, this is something I can do' … it's something they can give back." The initiative reflects one of the worst kept secrets about B.C.'s residential development sector: that developers are constantly seeking ways to give back to the communities they serve. In fact, First Track's efforts to help Ukrainian refugees are in keeping with Faris and Ilich's vow when they launched their company to "do things differently" and "walk the real estate paths least taken." Their efforts are also true to their goal, as outlined on their website, to "build things that matter, to make a positive imprint on communities and to collaborate with people who want the same. At the end of the day, we are locals who want to see our city progress in better and inspiring ways, together." First Track's generosity goes a long way in enhancing the already- positive tone surrounding Woodland Block. The aim of the development is to create a distinct new community near Trout Lake; the 72 townhomes and flats were designed for real life, with mid-century modern influences, borrowing inspiration from New York architecture, a collection of retail conveniences just steps away from one's front door, and amenities intended to bring the whole block together. Faris and Ilich's determination to do things differently led to them collaborating with Ekistics Architecture and House of Bohn to make Woodland Block special. "We wanted to create a community within a community, where residents can be proud to call their home far from cookie-cutter, " Faris says. Stretching across a full city block, Woodland Block will consist of beautifully crafted one- to three- bedroom homes that are simple, functional and inviting, with plenty of personality. This is the result of House of Bohn founder and creative director Karin Bohn marrying classic mid-century-modern style with contemporary design. The homes will incorporate private yards and rooftop patios, ideal for residents wanting to carry gatherings from the kitchen to the outdoors and to feel connected to the surrounding community. Bohn says of the ingredients informing her design strategy, "I love the community aspect of East Vancouver, and I also love the up-pretentious nature of the community. It's a no-B.S. area of Vancouver!" This, of course, matches First Track's development ethos. "Our projects are informed by the history, fabric and context of their environments while focusing on craftsmanship," Ilich says. "We inject the soul of community into each of our projects, while finding compelling ways to deviate from the norm." Given their philosophy that community is everything, First Track supports a variety of causes: it is the lead sponsor of the Trout Lake Farmers' Market and Eat Local Program, a gold sponsor of St. Paul Hospital's Lights of Hope, and actively involved and supportive of the BC Children's Hospital Foundation. But its collaboration with Maple Hope, the Rennie Foundation and S.U.C.C.E.S.S. is currently drawing the most attention, with the First Track houses intended to help Ukrainian refugees ultimately resettle in Metro Vancouver. "Other developers have been inspired to take our lead, which is enormously fulfilling," Faris says, noting that PC Urban and Headwater Projects offered homes on their own redevelopment sites, and upwards of 50 residences in various locations are expected to come on-line under Operation Welcome Home. Good things are coming. Soon. Get the full story at WoodlandBlock.com PHOTO : EAST VANCOUVER'S WOODLAND BLOCK PHOTO : EAST VANCOUVER'S WOODLAND BLOCK First Track Investment firs rackdevelopment First Track Development