East Vancouver Duplex

Can an Architect re-imagine Spec homes... It is not for everyone!

Noble is an architectural / micro-development practice with the belief that architects can play an essential role in creating quality and affordable homes if they are involved in building them. Operating as a MICRO-developer, a word play on microbreweries, allows the practice to create in small batches that enables takeing a gentle and layered approach. Not capital ‘D’ development.

The reason to do this is not because of love for financial risks or unstoppable entrepreneurial nature. But because it is the right and necessary thing to encourage market change and better housing outcomes across the city and the country. The dream is to lift up the public expectation of developments.

The goal with Noble is to explore the idea that it is possible to build higher quality housing and that the model is financially viable as a catalyst for positive change. A design that is delightful and honest with an awareness of living simply. Intentionally not "luxury", a word often used unauthentically.

We all know that a duplex in East Vancouver is not going to solve affordability and density issues in this city. But it is a very small step towards the right direction. Two families on one lot is a tiny bit closer to a healthier more appropriate density.

Challenges :

FSR vs. Space....The focus is on the quality of spaces rather than how many bedrooms and bathrooms one can squeeze in a 1400 sf home. To Allow the spaces to have a little room to breath rather than solely aiming to maximize the FSR.

Value engineering....Who's values are engineered out? A not always popular task, usually initiated by the client. A challenge when the architect is also the client. A lot had to go but the items that mattered most architecturally stayed.

Finances.... this whole thing that women have less access to financing is not a myth! It was the hardest part of this whole journey.