Vancouver-based GBL Architects has been selected as one of four winners for the ReGEN Boston International Housing Design Competition.

The Boston Society of Architects Housing Committee, in partnership with the City of Boston, sought innovative sustainable housing typologies to respond to a city’s need to house the continuing life cycles of its residents.

GBL Architects proposed to redevelop an existing contaminated brownfield site along the Chelsea Creek in East Boston. The proposed development of the site serves as the first stage of a larger effort to connect the entire East Boston waterfront.

As further industrial land is reclaimed, the incremental development could eventually create a continuous link around the waterfront. A sustainable mix of diverse housing typologies, residents, amenities and public space are physically connected through an interweaving network of boardwalks and open amenity spaces, enhancing the opportunity for social interaction and communal well-being.

The winners were selected from more than 85 entrants from 40 countries.

The design competition stimulated a new round of planning, charged with harnessing growth and extending it to neighbourhoods that remain overlooked and undervalued.

A selection of finalist entries has been displayed at the ABX Architecture Boston Expo and the Boston Society of Architects.