17 demolition-bound B.C. homes relocated to ease shíshálh housing crisis

Seventeen affordable, below-market rental homes have now been fully turned over to members of the shíshálh Nation, closing the loop on a project that transformed teardown houses into stable homes for shíshálh Nation families.

Originally slated for demolition in Port Moody, 10 single-family homes were salvaged by Renewal Development and transported by truck and barge to the Coast in partnership with Vancouver-based Wesgroup. Once on site, the homes were retrofitted and modestly modernized to improve energy efficiency, durability and comfort. New basements were added beneath the relocated structures, expanding the total supply to 17 rental units.

“This innovative housing solution, once replicated and scaled, can be part of the solution to our housing and climate crises,” says Glyn Lewis, CEO and Founder of Renewal Development.

Like many communities across B.C., the shíshálh Nation has faced acute housing pressures. Beyond adding supply, the project prioritized local economic development: roughly 70 per cent of the workforce came through shíshálh entrepreneurs, supporting skills training and employment within the community.

The environmental impact is also significant. Approximately one million kilograms of material were diverted from landfill, with an estimated 230,000 kilograms of greenhouse gas emissions reduced over a projected 60-year lifecycle.

The initiative has drawn international attention. In 2025, it was featured at the International Architecture Exhibition La Biennale di Venezia for its approach to sustainable prefabricated housing. That same year, Renewal Development CEO Glyn Lewis received a “Champion for Indigenous Reconciliation” honour from the Indigenous Partnerships Success Showcase.

“This project is about more than housing—it’s about creating opportunity and strengthening our community,” says lhe hiwus (Chief) yalxwemult Lenora Joe. “By partnering with organizations that respect our traditions, culture and priorities, we have delivered much-needed homes for our members while creating jobs, building skills, and investing directly in the future of our Nation.”