Project goals
The YWCA Courtyard Project goals were to:
- build affordable rental homes for people who face barriers in finding suitable housing
- achieve net-zero energy consumption and net-zero emissions
- use a modular approach to lower costs and increase affordability
- create a thriving neighborhood that fosters a sense of belonging, security and pride
Project overview
The YWCA Courtyard Project building is constructed primarily from recycled shipping containers. The design intended to combine energy-efficiency with an attractive, healthy and comfortable living environment.
The project’s modular approach offers the potential for cost savings in:
- design
- engineering
- development
- reduced on-site construction activities
The shipping container design was adopted as a flexible strategy that enables adaptation to the specific needs of future affordable housing projects. It allows for a variety of designs while still meeting the same high standards of energy-efficiency, affordability and livability. At least 5 suites are barrier-free to accommodate people with accessibility needs.
The overall cost of this project is estimated to be just under $9 million. The federal government provided a contribution of $1.35 million through the National Housing Strategy’s Affordable Housing Innovation Fund.
The project features a variety of energy-efficient construction techniques and technologies, consider tenant well-being and include key innovations.
About National Housing Strategy Case Studies
The research presented in this series explore topics in the National Housing Strategy priority areas of:
- housing for those in greatest need
- community housing sustainability
- Indigenous housing
- northern housing
- sustainable housing and communities
- balanced supply of housing
Get more information about the National Housing Strategy.
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