Location: 730 River Road,Winnipeg, Canada

Type: Housing Cooperative

Year:2017

Constructed in the mid-1970’s on desirable land along the Red River in the St. Vital neighbourhood of Winnipeg, the Village Canadien Housing Coop was in need of a significant investment to maintain and enhance the quality of its building stock. The 27 buildings that make up the Coop contain 127 residential units. All were in need of new windows and exterior doors, increased insulation, new air tightness membrane, new roof drainage systems, and some also required foundation work.

Our integrated team of architects, engineers, and building envelope specialists investigated the existing conditions and original project documentation, and then developed a renewal strategy that solved the various problems while updating the overall appearance of the Coop with a fresh new look. At the same time, distinctive colours were used to identify different areas of the complex in order to help with way-finding.

Throughout the process, we met with the Coop board and management often, with the goal of developing and then implementing a renewal strategy that provided value for money, and substantial improvements to the quality of life for members of the community.

*Photographed by Lindsay Reid*