Figurr Architects Collective (Figurr) has designed 159 Forward Avenue, an affordable housing project in Ottawa, which meets Passive House performance standards, and is three times more energy-efficient than previous projects built for the Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation (CCOC).
The 49-unit project demonstrates that sustainable design is attainable for all. Developed for the rental management agency, CCOC, this multi-family dwelling, situated in the Mechanicsville neighbourhood, replaces a decommissioned family shelter, embodying a community-focused urban infill.
While the project did not seek Passive House certification, its performance testing resulted in an impressive achievement of 0.21 Air Changes per Hour (ACH) at 50 Pa (0.007 psi), surpassing the 0.6 ACH required for certification. This success underscores the collaboration between Figurr, the CCOC, and their project development arm, Cahdco, demonstrating the effectiveness of a shared vision in realizing sustainability goals.
The sustainability features encompass a high-performance building envelope, heat recovery through Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV) mechanical systems, triple-glazed windows, compact massing, solar panels on the roof, ample bicycle parking, and community gardens. Beyond construction methods and materials, the project emphasizes how sustainable design positively impacts the financial well-being of tenants, offering them energy savings and allowing them the ability to allocate resources to other necessities or future savings.
The project includes over ten two-bedroom and 12 three-bedroom units, ensuring a diverse range of affordable housing options. A notable feature is the commitment to accessibility, with 100 per cent of the apartments meeting accessibility standards and 16 units specifically designed to be barrier-free.
The building’s exterior boasts a fully accessible rear yard with community gardens, secured covered bike storage, and social spaces, emphasizing the integration of green spaces and communal areas. Architectural choices, such as a large, cantilevered overhang and a low-rise urban form, not only enhance visual appeal, but also contribute to the project’s overall efficiency and functionality.
