From Suburban to Urban: Increasing Density and Housing Adaptability via Small-Scale Infill Development in Medium Sized Cities.

Abstract
\nThe combination of the drastic rise in housing prices and the post-pandemic emergence of 
\nremote work, has resulted in population migration from densely populated urban centres to 
\nsmaller scale suburban communities across Canada. These communities have faced the challenge 
\nof dramatic population growth alongside unprecedented increases in real estate prices.
\nOne such community that has experienced an influx of resident migration post 2020 is 
\nBrantford, Ontario, located approximately one hour from Toronto. A challenge for Brantford as 
\nwell as other suburban communities is how to integrate new housing into existing infrastructure 
\nwhile continuing to provide a variety of housing options for its population.
\nIn response to population growth, cities often resort to developing single-use dwelling types 
\nthat respond to narrow demographics and static stages of life. Examples of this are large single 
\nfamily homes, townhouses and condominium towers.
\nIn response to the limitations of these common strategies, this thesis will investigate the ability 
\nof centrally located original neighbourhoods in medium sized cities to absorb population growth 
\nvia small scale infill development. Brantford’s historic Holmedale neighbourhood will serve as 
\nthe location for this investigation as well as a template for similar neighbourhoods in comparable 
\nOntario cities. The main objective of this investigation is to create building prototypes 
\nthat increase density, mixed-use possibilities and housing options in low density residential 
\nneighbourhoods, as a strategy to increase affordability and residential density. The proposed 
\nprototypes will also endeavour to address the need for adaptive re-use to accommodate ever 
\nevolving neighbourhood demographics.
\nTo support the feasibility of the prototypes, this thesis will employ a variety of methods. 
\nIt will begin with a brief synopsis of Ontario’s housing crisis, accompanied by reviews of 
\ntopical literature, common housing typologies and development strategies. Following this, 
\nthe research will investigate target demographics and identification of neighbourhoods that 
\nare best suited for densification. Subsequently, an investigation of design parameters will be 
\nconducted to understand constraints and resultant design opportunities. Once parameters are 
\ndefined, the thesis will illustrate the design of six prototypes and explain their features. To 
\nenhance the credibility of these design proposals, a study in resultant densification statistics 
\nwill be investigated, demonstrating the ability of the prototypes to absorb population growth 
\nin Brantford. The applicability of the prototypes will be tested in similar neighbourhoods in 
\nCambridge, Kitchener and Guelph demonstrating their adaptability to a variety of locations 
\nexperiencing similar housing challenges. Finally, the research will assess the financial feasibility 
\nof multiple prototype variations, demonstrating their capacity to provide a greater variety of 
\nfinancial options that enhance affordability.

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