Affordable-housing development Gladstone Village expands with phase 2

Ottawa Community Housing is moving ahead with plans to expand its Gladstone Village development. The organization announced last week that it had awarded the contract for design of the second phase of the project to Hobin Architecture. “Hobin Architecture brings a combination of experience and creativity needed to deliver buildings that are functional, sustainable, and […]

Ottawa Community Housing is moving ahead with plans to expand its Gladstone Village development. The organization announced last week that it had awarded the contract for design of the second phase of the project to Hobin Architecture. “Hobin Architecture brings a combination of experience and creativity needed to deliver buildings that are functional, sustainable, and welcoming,” said OCH chief development officer Cliff Youdale in a media release. “Their thoughtful design approach will help create homes and shared spaces that foster community connection and contribute to a vibrant, inclusive neighbourhood.” The scope of work for phase two calls for the construction of up to 975 affordable homes across three buildings on a 2.4-acre portion of the site that borders Preston Street, Oak Street and the O-Train Trillium Line. As with the first phase of the development, which has been under construction since September 2024, phase two will be designed to “Passive House” standards for energy efficiency.  Planned features include energy-efficient mechanical and electrical systems and an airtight building envelope to reduce energy consumption – measures that should lower utility costs for tenants. The buildings will also be designed to be district-energy ready, enabling future connection to centralized heating, cooling or heat-recovery systems.  “Our vision for Gladstone Village extends well beyond delivering affordable housing,” said project architect Marc Thivierge. “We see this as an opportunity to shape a sustainable, socially inclusive, transit-oriented neighbourhood, one that is deeply connected to its context and designed to support long-term community well-being. The project will prioritize energy performance, active living, and meaningful shared spaces, all integrated seamlessly into the existing urban and transit fabric.”

The exact timeline for building the project has yet to be confirmed. OCH hopes to have the project ready for construction in early 2027, adding that it may divide the construction into phases, depending on funding. Youdale said OCH intends to apply for federal support from the federal Building Canada Homes program, but declined to provide details on the project budget. “We think the project is well-aligned with the goals of Building Canada Homes,” he said. “It’s an executable project on a serviceable lot adjacent to transit, and which is effectively shovel-ready.” Meanwhile, construction on phase one of Gladstone Village continues. Crews led by general contractor Pomerleau Construction topped off both towers in October. OCH anticipates the project will be finished by the end of 2026. At more than 1,300 total units, Gladstone Village will be one of the largest affordable-housing developments in the city. “When you look beyond the contribution it will make in terms of housing alone, Gladstone Village is an incredible city building opportunity,” said Youdale. “Our vision is for a community that includes youth and senior facilities, as well as amenity spaces, and excellent proximity to schools, community centres, and the Plant Recreation Centre.” OCH says the development is aligned with the City of Ottawa’s 10-Year Housing and Homelessness Plan and will provide homes for a diverse range of tenants, including families, seniors and individuals with varying abilities.