The project transitions the industry to decentralized manufacturing of modularized components, e.g. corridors, balconies, unit massing, to bring scalable and sustainable designs to the North American marketplace. The project is nearly net-zero thanks to high thermal insulation properties (EUI of 73 kwh/m2), ground-source heat pumps with in-ceiling radiant slabs, and low-energy electric systems. The project also uses hybrid slab panels that are engineered to minimize waste, as well as embodied and operational carbon, green roofs to support biodiversity and water retention, rainwater harvesting, thermally broken corridors and balconies to reduce heat loss and improve thermal comfort, and massing of the building to maximize winter sunlight exposure in the courtyard. Amidst Toronto’s housing crises with soaring rents and lack of supply, the project team has evolved a new model for development that can scale to meet Toronto’s ambitious housing goals.

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• Energy efficiency: estimated to be 46% lower than the baseline for residential mixed use buildings in Toronto based on the National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings 2017.

Project status: Design stage completed, expected start of construction - January 2024.

The jury was highly appreciative of several remarkable aspects showcased by the project. They particularly acknowledged the extensive research that informed the design, demonstrating a deep understanding of a complex program. The project’s holistic approach, which accounted for the entire building life cycle and optimized operational efficiency through passive design solutions was especially acknowledged. The integration of nature-based elements and solutions, and the creation of a large central courtyard were commended for fostering biodiversity and creating a pleasant living environment. 

Furthermore, the implementation of water recovery mechanisms and the use of balconies that break the thermal bridges demonstrated a strong commitment to achieving excellent energy performance while showcasing the project’s dedication to responsible resource management and thermal comfort for the occupants. Overall, the project’s excellence and scalability positioned it as a promising solution for sustainable housing production, within the Canadian context and beyond.