Co-op Housing Futures: A Spatial Design Research Approach

Abstract

This proposal/plan document outlines a research project of the BC-Alberta Social Economy Research Alliance (BALTA). The project explores the potential impact of a participatory action research process using an environmental design planning process with a housing co-op in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The project involved a team of Environmental Design students at the University of Calgary working with the Sunnyhill Housing Cooperative in Calgary to explore options for its future using a design approach. Elements to be considered in the design were post-carbon urban living, socio-cultural, economic and ecological sustainability and resilience, as well as intensification and diversity of land uses. The process was subsequently evaluated to determine the results of the approach and whether it could provide a model for other housing co-ops.