Location: Hamilton, ON
Client: Indwell
Year of Completion: 2020
Architect of Record: Invizij Architects
Located adjacent to Parkdale Landing, this four storey new building is the completing phase of an urban infill redevelopment transforming a long-neglected landmark site. Designed with wood construction for its cost effectiveness and carbon sequestration properties, the building includes 50 one-bedroom apartments. It is now certified with PHIUS (Passive House).
The building’s overall design aesthetic references stacked shipping containers, reflecting its nearby industrial neighbourhoods in East Hamilton. The shape of the building creates a protected courtyard between the two buildings, with large south-facing communal balconies. On the street-facing portion of the ground floor, a commercial storefront unit is designed to suit a future use with community benefit. The site plan also includes a private dog-park for tenants, as the complex is pet-friendly.
The project is developed in conjunction with local Indigenous organizations to address issues of Indigenous homelessness. To reflect this priority, the landscaping is designed with twelve traditional Indigenous plantings in the four directions including sage, tobacco, cedar, and sweet grass around a central symbolic fire gathering area.
