BC, Canada – Lower Mainland (604) 826-2215
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Sq’éwlets First Nation Net Zero Ready Triplex

In collaboration with Sq’éwlets First Nation, this Triplex project was designed to be a model home for energy efficiency, long-term housing resiliency, and operational affordability in the community. The target deliverables for the project included the following:

  • 3-Unit MURB – 3 bedroom / 2.5 bath per unit
  • ~$275/sq ft total construction cost
  • BC Energy Step Code Step 4 Target – Step 5 achieved
  • Net Zero Ready Certification Target – NZR achieved
  • <1.5 ACH – 0.57 ACH achieved
  • Built-Green Certification – Gold Level achieved (pending confirmation)
  • Enhanced tenant comfort (sound & indoor air quality)

To achieve the deliverables mentioned above, several innovative building practices and materials were implemented on this project including:

  • ICF foundation walls (R24)
  • Exterior insulation – R9 rigid
  • Exterior air barrier approach – WRB sheathing + tapes/sealants
  • Enhanced interior insulation – R28 batt + site-applied spray foam
  • Air-source heat pump + electric air handler & backup furnace
  • HRV make-up air system
  • Electric DHW system
  • Advanced framing techniques – high-hell truss, advanced corners, etc.
  • LP Smart Side engineered wood siding, fascia, and exterior trims
  • Enhanced U-Value window glazing
  • Enhanced STC rating between units
  • Low-flow plumbing fixtures
  • LED lighting throughout
  • Passive radon gas mitigation system

Through the use of the systems mentioned above, the project was able to successfully achieve an overall envelope air tightness of 0.57 ACH (below Passive House standards) as well as Net Zero Ready Certification and Built-Green Gold Certification (pending). Furthermore, this is the first new housing project in the Sq’éwlets community that has been modeled and tested for energy efficiency as they are not governed by an AHJ and have their own internal permitting/building bylaws. This project will stand as a model home for future housing development in the community and provide a feasible benchmark for sustainable development practices moving forward.

Project Type 1st Nations, Award Winning, Commercial, Energy Efficient, New Build
LocationHarrison Mills, BC
ServiceCommercial
ScopeFull build — planning from permit through to completion
StatusCompleted
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