Experience That Delivers Real-World Results

This multi-family housing project was developed from bare land through early planning, design coordination, financing support, and construction readiness. Yell-Quay-Tza’s role included supporting feasibility analysis, coordinating architects and technical consultants, assisting with funding pathways, and ensuring design decisions aligned with community priorities and long-term maintenance realities.

This multi-family housing project was envisioned as more than a response to housing demand — it was designed as a culturally grounded living environment that reflects Tsawout values, supports multi-generational life, and strengthens everyday community connection.

The design draws inspiration from the spatial and social role of the Bighouse, abstracting its principles rather than replicating its form. Seven interconnected buildings are arranged across the site to create a network of shared courtyards and pathways, encouraging interaction, visibility, and a sense of belonging while still respecting privacy. These courtyards function as communal living rooms — places for children to play under the watch of elders, for neighbours to gather, and for cultural and social life to unfold naturally.

Strong attention was given to the relationship between land, buildings, and natural systems. The site layout respects Sandhill Creek, incorporates native planting and riparian restoration, and uses visible rainwater channels and landscape swales to reconnect water to the land. Building orientation responds to solar exposure and prevailing winds, creating comfortable microclimates and extending seasonal use of outdoor spaces.

Unit layouts were designed to accommodate a wide range of household types, from single residents to larger families, with accessible units integrated throughout. Natural materials, human-scaled massing, deep eaves, and expressive roof forms reinforce a sense of care, craft, and longevity. Together, these elements create housing that is not only functional, but deeply rooted in place — supporting dignity, cultural continuity, and a strong foundation for future generations.

Shown above, the site has been cleared for this project.

This community daycare facility was planned to support early childhood development while strengthening broader community well-being. From the outset, the project required careful coordination between community leadership, technical consultants, and funding partners to ensure the facility would be safe, efficient, and fit for long-term use.

Yell-Quay-Tza supported the project through planning, consultant coordination, and project readiness, helping align design decisions with regulatory requirements, operational needs, and community expectations. The team worked closely with designers and engineers to ensure the facility would be functional, welcoming, and resilient over time.

Beyond meeting immediate program needs, the project was approached as a long-term community asset. Design and planning decisions considered durability, ease of maintenance, and flexibility to support evolving needs, ensuring the facility can continue serving families for generations.