This Radically Simple Solution for Transitional Housing Was a Community-Wide Labour of Love
Tiny Homes
As homebuilders, we have a responsibility to provide diverse housing solutions for all citizens—especially our community’s most vulnerable.
In 2020, Aryze brought forward the idea of Tiny Homes Village as transitional housing solution that would provide 30 temporary homes built from repurposed shipping containers. Together with the Greater Victoria Coalition to End Homelessness, we ran a crowdfunding campaign to make this idea a reality.
Awards
Innovation in Affordability
UDI Awards for Excellence
Project Stats
Number of Homes
30
Average Home Size
+/- 100 SF
Build Time
5 Months
Operational Period
2020–2025
Crowdfunding
The pandemic was a challenging time for all of us. But for some, particularly the unhoused—it magnified existing stresses.
Exacerbated by the pandemic, the dual crises of housing affordability and mental health led to the closure of shelters. This left many individuals displaced, resulting in the emergence of tent communities throughout Victoria's public parks.
In December 2020—together with the Greater Victoria Coalition to End Homelessness—we launched an innovative campaign 'Hey Neighbour' to raise the funds required for the construction of Tiny Homes Village in the North Park neighbourhood.
Seeking $500,000 to support the capital expenses required to build 30 tiny homes, we collaborated with a successful videographer from Lot2 Media—B. Joel Cran—who volunteered to film a video in support of the fundraising campaign.
In less than three months, we raised over $500,000 from more than 580 individual donors.
$500,000+
Crowdfunded in less than three months time
580+
Individual donors including local citizens
Tiny Homes
Although portable in nature, Tiny Homes Village temporarily occupied the 25,670 sqft portion of Royal Athletic Park’s parking lot from 2020 to 2025.
Each of the homes was constructed to the highest standard of comfort. Local architect DAU Studio donated planning and urban design services, while RJC Engineers provided structural and building enclosure expertise. Together, they ensured the homes met the highest standards of livability for residents who had spent the past year braving the harsh conditions of the West Coast.
Average Home Size
+/– 100 SF
Amenities
Bed, Wardrobe, Fridge. Each home is heated, insulated and ventilated for user comfort.
Common Amenities
Washrooms & Shower, Office & Common Space, Storage, Communal Garden, Bike Parking
Murals
To better connect Tiny Homes Village with the vibrant North Park neighbourhood, exterior walls feature murals by local artists Kay Gallivan, Lydia Beauregard and Caitlin McDonagh.
The imagery tells a visual story of how different beings find and understand home—highlighting that having a home is fundamental to life, and part of a larger community.
The palette warms and brightens the original container tones: coral and gold add richness, white offers contrast and muted seafoam and periwinkle provide balance.
Documentary
The filmmakers from Lot2 Media—creators behind the moving crowdfunding video—followed us along on the six-month-long journey from conception to completion, exploring the critical importance of providing housing for all citizens.
Featuring interviews with BC Housing Minister David Eby and Robin Mazumder—an environmental scientist studying the psychological impacts of urban design—the documentary film called “Tiny Town” was recognized as the Best Documentary at Toronto Film and Script Awards.
Aryze Philosophy
We’re an integrated home building, development and urban planning team committed to increasing the quality of homes and communities in Victoria, BC.
Using traditional building methods, innovative construction technologies and intelligent design, we deliver thoughtful living environments to people who will call Aryze homes their own. In our commitment to building healthy resilient communities we realize projects that create a lasting impression and shape our city in a positive way.
Browse some of our projects to see our city-building work in action.
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