Skeena Terrace

A Tenant-First Approach to Redevelopment
Skeena Terrace has provided affordable homes to residents and generations of families for over 50 years. With the buildings needing extensive repair, and the prevalent affordability crisis in the city, our client was looking to redevelop the site.

The site provides a significant opportunity to increase housing close to transit amongst a mature urban tree canopy, but also works within the constraints of extreme topography and the need for keeping a close-knit community intact. Our team addressed these—not only increasing the number of affordable units six-fold—but by also creating engaging and inclusive “neighbourhood rooms.” These courtyards encourage community building with barrier-free paths that promote pedestrian and active modes of mobility, amenities for residents and neighbours, and a phasing plan that limits resident displacement. The redevelopment will provide nearly 2,000 new homes, of which two-thirds will be affordable rental homes. Most will serve as family-oriented two to three-bedroom units, and 10% will be accessible to accommodate a diverse population.

Client: BC Housing Management Commission
Size: 11 acres
Completion Date: 2035
Awards:
National Urban Design Awards, Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC)
2024