Addressing the Housing Affordability Crisis in Canada: A Path Forward

A concept gaining prominence in the discussion on housing affordability is “housing suitability” which addresses whether our existing and proposed housing types meet the needs of residents. This idea resonates with our ongoing reflections on the influence of affordability. I have often contemplated how affordability has influenced the spaces we design, questioning the validity of constructing smaller sized high-rise condominium suites prevalent in the Greater Toronto Area in the 21^stcentury. All too often these units are marketed to investors instead of end-users, capitalizing on the higher price per square foot smaller spaces command. While they contribute to increasing housing supply, they fall short of providing suitable family homes, ultimately compromising the livability of our cities.

It is encouraging to learn that housing suitability is, in fact, formally defined as the adequacy of accommodations for private households. This term further assesses the number of bedrooms for a household according to the National Occupancy Standard developed by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. Tracking housing suitability encourages a methodology and dialogue not only about the problem but also about the solutions.

By contrast, grade-related developments have historically offered more affordable and family-appropriate housing. Though these units typically cost more than high-rise apartments, their average price per square foot is significantly lower, and they can be built more quickly. This highlights an opportunity to envision innovative grade-related housing types that better address suitability concerns.

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Reevaluating Urban Expansion and Sprawl

Grade-related developments are often criticized for contributing to urban sprawl, prompting many municipalities to adopt a “No Settlement Area Boundary Expansion” policy.  However, as outlined in the Building Industry and Land Development Association’s (BILD) December of 2023 Land Supply Analysis, there is a misconception that all urban expansion is sprawl.

Well-planned settlement area boundary expansions, where land consumption grows at a slower rate than the population, can counter the negative perceptions of urban expansion.  Newer communities are often designed to be denser, walkable, transit-oriented, and contain a wider range of housing options. As a result, these designated growth areas are projected to experience faster population growth than existing built-up areas.

Innovative Solutions for a Sustainable Future

Our practice is dedicated to advancing creative approaches including Missing Middle and Multi-Generational living solutions, to foster a more affordable and suitable housing future. The foundation of our firm is providing well designed and dignified housing. We are steadfast in this commitment.  By continually learning more, embracing innovative solutions to urban development strategies, we can contribute to create more vibrant, livable communities.

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