MHI Veterans’ House: The Andy Carswell Building
Multifaith Housing Initiative (MHI) Veterans’ House: The Andy Carswell Building is Canada’s first community housing project specifically designed for veterans transitioning to civilian life. The building incorporates thoughtful design features, including full accessibility for 20% of units and all common areas, as well as "visitable" suites for added flexibility.
To foster community engagement and well-being, the building provides communal spaces such as a multipurpose room, fitness room, and shared kitchen. Additionally, a serene outdoor space featuring a meditation garden, barbecue patio, vegetable garden, and fenced dog run offers residents a tranquil retreat. Partnering non-profit organizations have access to shared office spaces within the building, providing essential support services to veterans as they adapt to their new chapter.
Sustainable features
The building was designed to meet Passive House Standards. Energy modeling shows that the building will have a 43% energy use reduction and 57% carbon reduction below the NECB 2015 reference model. This was achieved through super-insulated and sealed building envelope, optimization of mechanical systems, and thorough commissioning. The unique building envelope features 11 7/8” deep Larsen trusses filled with blown cellulose insulation, achieving a wall insulation value of R-73. High-durability materials were specified to reduce life-cycle costs and maintenance.