Poco Village Missing Middle

Type: Competition, Infill residential

Housing prices are rapidly rising across the Metro Vancouver region. Subsequently, suburban neighbourhoods have become a new frontier for housing density. However, if left to develop like their more urbanized neighbours, cities like Port Coquitlam will soon share the affordability crisis of Vancouver. We need to future-proof our suburbs so they can support the Missing Middle population now, and for years to come.

Sometimes the solution to a difficult problem is already in front of us, hiding in plain sight. Taking inspiration from older, more traditional methods of development, we plan to build multi- unit additions onto pre existing structures to retain housing stock and preserve affordability. In tandem, we propose a responsive solution that transforms a living room community into one where life is lived and shared on a completely redesigned streetscape.

New housing has to be flexible. A one-size-fits -all solution only works well on paper. In our design optional lock-off units can be joined with neighbouring suites to create larger living spaces for families, or sectioned off to be rented separately. Our scheme also incorporates the potential for new street-facing commercial storefronts, which not only improves the public realm but also provides owners an alternate stream of revenue.

New neighbourhoods have to be responsive. Over time, as car ownership declines as a result of automation, jobs will move closer to home and increased density will be inevitable. As more property owners choose to redevelop, the street and lanes will adapt to these changing conditions. The back lanes that previously served cars can be converted to green corridors for an ecologically rich community amenity, and the main streets in front give way to a profusion of public space.

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