Living Better Together: Approaches to Multi-Generational Housing

Living Better Together: Approaches to Multi-Generational Housing

This webinar is part of the RAIC 2024 Conference on Architecture, now available to stream!

Topics: Housing, Planning and Urbanism

Length: 1 hour | What's Included: Video, Quiz, and Certificate of Completion 

Driven by demographic changes, immigration patterns, housing affordability, the climate emergency, and the need for livable places where people can age and grow in place, the desire for sustainable multi-generational housing is greater than ever. The concept of multi-generational housing, where individuals from different generations live under one roof, is gaining significant attention in Canada and around the world. This session will present a comprehensive exploration of various approaches to multi-generational housing, focusing on how they contribute to fostering stronger intergenerational relationships, promote sustainable living, and enhance overall well-being. It will also feature both a high density multi-generational mass timber modular housing prototype in Toronto, as well as a proposed high-rise social housing project in Vancouver inspired by Indigenous values and culture.

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Describe how innovative mass timber modular constriction systems can create high-quality, sustainable housing at scale.
• Explain how well-designed, inclusive spaces can help foster multi-generational interaction and connection.
• Discuss how flexible, adaptable housing can support families and individuals as they age and grow over time.
• Recognize how Indigenous values and cultural expression can be incorporated into high-density housing to promote social connection.

Subject Matter Experts:

Amit Price Patel
AIBC, Architect CA, WA, CO, AICP, LEED AP, M.Arch/M.City Planning
Partner of Urban Planning and Architecture, DIALOG

Amit is dedicated to enhancing urban life and fostering inclusivity in cities, central to his roles as an architect and urban planner. His design work aims to promote equity and ensure access to quality architecture, creating sustainable, thriving spaces for all. With 20+ years of experience, he has spearheaded various city-shaping projects, collaborating with diverse clients and communities. At DIALOG, he has led the design of social housing projects for First Nations and Métis communities, innovation districts, transit-oriented developments, and mixed-use residential projects. Previously, at SITELAB urban studio and David Baker Architects, Amit contributed to multiple notable projects, including the Google Framework Plan and affordable housing communities across North America. Amit shares his expertise as a speaker and educator, presently teaching at the University of California, Berkeley and has contributed to the Mayors Institute on City Design and the Affordable Housing Design Leadership Institute.

Cristina Horta
B.Arch., MUD
Urban Designer, DIALOG

Cristina's exploration of design began during her studies and work as an architect in Mexico City. Over four transformative years, Cristina immersed herself in an array of typologies and scale of projects. Her curiosity about how public spaces interact with communities inspired her to study a Master in Urban Design at the University of British Columbia. During this time, she gained a deeper understanding of how architecture, society, and the environment are closely connected.

Cristina joined DIALOG as an urban designer eager to learn and grow. Her interest is not just about buildings but how to shape communities; to capture the way people interact, creating places where connections are made and shared experiences thrive. Cristina's multifaceted background equips her with a unique approach to design challenges from various angles; such versatility enriches her capacity to forge connections and create designs that transcend boundaries, reflecting her commitment to inclusive, holistic, and harmonious design.

Juan Carlos Portuese
MArch, BArch
Associate and Architect, DIALOG

Juan Carlos is a design lead, architect and creative thinker with over 20 years of experience. His award-winning projects are a model of his commitment to creating innovative, meaningful, and inclusive architectural environments. His work is characterized by his artful, practical, technically advanced, and sustainable approach, that celebrates the uniqueness of each community, culture, and the environment it serves. Juan has led and collaborated on the conceptualization, design, and management of multiple Healthcare, Higher Education, Large Campus Masterplan, and Sports and Recreation projects across Canada, the US, and internationally. He strives to build equitable, enthusiastic, and collaborative teams that bring clients, stakeholders, constructors, and the community together.

Dave Ward
CEO
Lu'ma Development Management

Lu’ma is a Coast Salish word for “new beginnings.” Lu’ma offers a wide range of programs, services and other initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty, improving the overall health of the urban Indigenous community and responding to the evolving needs of Indigenous peoples. Over the past 40 years, Lu’ma has developed, owns and manages more than 1250 affordable housing units. Lu’ma offers a wide range of programs, services and initiatives that aim to alleviate poverty, improve the overall health of the urban Indigenous community and respond to the evolving needs of Indigenous peoples.

Barbara Lawson Swain
Associate CEO
Lu'ma  Native Housing Society

Lu’ma is a Coast Salish word for “new beginnings.” Lu’ma offers a wide range of programs, services and other initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty, improving the overall health of the urban Indigenous community and responding to the evolving needs of Indigenous peoples. Over the past 40 years, Lu’ma has developed, owns and manages more than 1250 affordable housing units. Lu’ma offers a wide range of programs, services and initiatives that aim to alleviate poverty, improve the overall health of the urban Indigenous community and respond to the evolving needs of Indigenous peoples.