Delnor

Description

This was a ground-up construction of a new, 43,000 square foot, 42-unit multifamily building assisting in giving the stability and support for many Edmontonians struggling to find permanent housing. The six-storey building consists of one- and two-bedroom suites and was constructed out of concrete and steel with an elevator and both covered parking as well as a parkade. The roof is a combination of SBS, and sloped metal cladding designed to accept future upgrading to solar power system. There is additional space on the top floor for an office and room for social events and Indigenous ceremony.

These housing units target different demographics and are focused on creating a village of inclusivity. It was a partnership between two housing providers with a mandate to help Indigenous community members who face housing challenges, require cultural supports and access to social programs. Five townhouses on the ground level are for at-risk families trying to regain stability, while there are also several apartments reserved for seniors, or “kokum’s” which is the Cree word for grandmother, whose rent is reduced rent in return for nurturing an adopted family in which they can drop in to share dinner or assist with childcare. Other units are for the growing homeless population in Edmonton struggling to deal with the backlash of COVID-19 who will get a home and the chance to learn Indigenous culture and support their role as helpers.