Innovative Housing Solutions for Sts’ailes Nation

Facing critical housing shortages, the Sts’ailes Nation sought climate-responsible and affordable solutions to meet their community’s needs. In collaboration with Renewal Development, Nation leadership, and Nickel Bros, four high-quality homes in Coquitlam, BC, were identified as ideal candidates for rescue, relocation, and repurposing. Built in 2016 and originally slated for demolition to make way for higher-density development, these homes are now on a transformative journey to serve as sustainable rental housing for Sts’ailes Nation members in Agassiz.

The project began in May 2024 with Renewal Development salvaging valuable materials from the homes' lower levels, including cabinets, appliances, and windows. These materials will be transported to Agassiz and repurposed to rebuild the homes' ground floors. In June, we began the complex process of lifting the homes’ top levels, using high-strength steel beams and synchronized jacks to prepare them for transport.

The relocation is taking place in two phases. The first two homes were carefully moved through Coquitlam’s streets overnight in late June, with the final two following in mid-July. From there, the homes traveled up the Fraser River toward Harrison Lake, where they were offloaded and delivered to their new location. Once on-site, Renewal Development and local contractors will modernize and repurpose the homes, integrating them into the community as affordable, low-carbon housing.

This project demonstrates how creative partnerships and sustainable practices can address urgent housing needs while reducing environmental impact. As work continues to evolve, we invite you to stay tuned for updates on this innovative collaboration with the Sts’ailes Nation.