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Lynn Woods – A Milestone for Affordable Living in Lynn Valley

In the Summer of 2022, North Vancouver celebrated the opening of the Lynn Woods below-market housing project, a milestone in addressing the region’s pressing need for affordable housing. This development, located in the heart of one of the city’s most desirable North Shore neighbourhoods, represents a forward-thinking approach to providing quality, affordable homes to those who need them most.

Addressing the Housing Crisis

Like many urban areas in British Columbia, North Vancouver has faced increasing challenges related to housing affordability. Rising real estate prices and a limited supply of rental units have made it difficult for many residents to find housing that meets their needs without stretching their budgets. Kiwanis North Shore Housing Society (KNSHS) continues to move the needle in the right direction while strengthening community connections with below-market housing options. Lynn Woods is their latest example of delivering a renewed sense of belonging to adults age 55+.

“This project is partially funded by BC Housing and is a collaborative partnership with the District of North Vancouver and Kiwanis”, said Stefan Baune, Executive Director of KNSHS, in an interview with the North Shore News. “It’s part of a bigger province-wide plan to address housing shortages and housing affordability in the province at large.”

A Vision of Affordable Living

Lynn Woods stands as a model for what below-market housing can look like when thoughtful design, community-oriented planning and financial support from the province come together. The project offers 106 spacious one-bedroom units with an average size of 579 square feet, including a large in-suite storage room and a balcony or patio, for a mix of income levels. 20% (or 21 units) of the units will be rented to individuals with gross incomes below $23,549, including those who are in receipt of Income Assistance. 50% (or 53 units) of the units are allocated to tenants with gross incomes below $58,000, paying rents based on 30% of their actual income. 30% (or 32 units) are rented to persons meeting the Society’s eligibility criteria.

Sustainability and Design

Each unit is designed with modern amenities and sustainable features, ensuring that residents have access to comfortable, energy-efficient living spaces. Sustainability was at the forefront of the Lynn Woods project from the beginning. The building is constructed with environmentally friendly materials and is designed to be energy-efficient, reducing both the environmental footprint and utility costs for residents.

The architecture of Lynn Woods is modern yet unobtrusive, blending with the natural surroundings and the existing neighbourhood. Thoughtful landscaping and the use of green spaces throughout the development create a peaceful, attractive environment for residents to enjoy. These features are designed to create a strong sense of belonging among residents and encourage interactions that contribute to a vibrant, supportive community.

A Blueprint for the Future

The Lynn Woods below-market housing project is more than just a building; it is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together to address its challenges. By providing affordable, sustainable housing in a desirable location, Lynn Woods helps ensure that North Vancouver remains a place where people with a range of incomes can live, work, and thrive.

As the demand for affordable housing continues to grow, Kiwanis’s Lynn Woods project serves as a blueprint for future developments, demonstrating how thoughtful design, collaboration, and a commitment to the community can create lasting solutions to housing challenges.