Killam REIT
Brightwood
Opportunity
Brightwood was envisioned as a higher-density rental community within an established Waterloo neighbourhood, balancing efficient urban infill with long-term livability and sustainability. The irregularly shaped site, extensive frontage, and high water table created challenges around building massing, circulation, and parking, while the client sought to maximize density and deliver a contemporary market-rate housing development that could be constructed efficiently without compromising resident experience or long-term performance.
Response
The design is a six-storey L-shaped building that maximizes the site while creating strong public-facing conditions along both street edges. Organized around a central circulation core, the building balances efficient planning with welcoming shared spaces, including a rooftop terrace, fitness studio, lounge, and social room designed to support community and everyday convenience. The light wood frame structure enabled an expedited construction schedule while supporting the project’s sustainability goals through a high-performance envelope, continuous exterior insulation, and triple-pane glazing. Within the suites, efficient layouts, contemporary finishes, and accessible design features create comfortable, durable living spaces tailored to modern rental housing.
Project Facts
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Markets
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Services
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Location
Waterloo, Ontario
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Size
28,500 sq. ft.
Team Leads
Partners and Consultants
VanMar – Construction
Planner and Landscape Architect - GSP
Tacoma – Structural
MTE - Civil
Smith and Anderson - Mechanical and Electrical
MGA - OBC & Fire Compliance
HGC – Acoustical