Project prioritizes Sustainable, Affordable, Accessible, and Culturally Appropriate housing
The Canadian government has partnered with the Native Women's Association of Canada (NWAC) to develop a new housing design model that better addresses the needs of Indigenous women, girls, Two-Spirit, transgender and gender diverse (WG2STGD+) people.
The project, funded with a $100,000 grant from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), involved extensive research by NWAC in collaboration with architects. The goal was to create a framework for Sustainable, Affordable, Accessible, and Culturally Appropriate (SAACA) housing.
A key aspect of the research was recognizing the diverse housing needs among different Indigenous groups and geographical locations, considering factors such as climate, ground conditions, and traditional housing styles.
The proposed SAACA housing design incorporates several culturally appropriate features, including:
- Accommodation for larger families and multigenerational living
- Windows on all sides and skylights for natural light
- A central gathering area
- Free-standing round wood stove with a dining table
- Open kitchen concept
- Exterior attached storage shed
Read more: StatCan on the current state of Indigenous housing
Sustainability features include solar panels, rain collectors, and a greenhouse. The design also prioritizes accessibility with wider entrances and affordability through enhanced insulation to reduce energy costs.
"NWAC has consistently recognized and advocated for Indigenous WG2STGD+ people's right to security and the guarantee of housing,” NWAC president Carol McBride said in a news release. “We appreciate the support from CMHC in the development of an affordable and culturally appropriate housing model. We look forward to further initiatives that address housing needs for First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities in Canada."
"Better understanding and addressing the housing needs of Indigenous women, girls, Two-Spirit, transgender and gender diverse (WG2STGD+) people is key to fostering reconciliation and inclusion in our communities across the country,” added Mathieu Laberge, senior vice president of housing economics and insights at CMHC.
“The housing design based on this research will be essential to ensuring that people can remain in their communities, connected to their identity, families and culture. We are proud to support this important work by NWAC, and excited to see this project is coming to fruition."
NWAC is now seeking funding to develop and test a prototype of this housing model.
Make sure to get all the latest news to your inbox on Canada’s mortgage and housing markets by signing up for our free daily newsletter here.
