Latest update from Helen O’Toole of H.O.T Architecture is:
Laneway Housing was approved by City Hall Council this evening July 28. Only one parking space required for large or small lots.
vancouverlanewayhousing.com for design options or custom plan.
Woohoo! I am all for this idea. Now, I am not saying that we’ll see a whole lot of rental units come on to the market but I am betting that we will see a seriously needed renovation of our city’s forgotten zones (the alleys). Small, inhabitable spaces will pop up here and there, some used for rental income and others for extended families while some will be used for offices and artist studios. All the while, those who build these units will be adding to their property’s value while those who could build them have just had the value of their home rise in the marketplace.
More importantly, in my eyes, we have seen two major issues involving our backyards go in favour of the home owner. Aside from building laneway homes we received approval several months ago for the keeping of backyard chicken coops. Ah, the sound of increased freedoms.
I look forward to seeing how this all plays out.
Vancouver, BC 