Climate-driven housing for New-Wes-Valley, Newfoundland

Using the land as our canvas, BIOSIS is delivering a much-needed, climate-driven residential development for the Town of New-Wes-Valley in Newfoundland, Canada. The design responds thoughtfully to the rugged terrain, limited development-ready land, and growing demand for homes. As always, we work with nature to create resilient, site-specific architecture that strengthens local communities.

The project will provide 17 multi-unit homes and a commercial space, all featuring ocean views and close access to local amenities. By introducing this new housing model, we are bringing greater diversity to the rural Atlantic landscape—welcoming families, seniors, singles, and newcomers into an inclusive and connected community.

The project is being developed in collaboration with unArchitecture Ltd. and the Town of New-Wes-Valley.

Unlocking new land for housing in Atlantic Canada

A major challenge in Arctic and Atlantic Canada’s housing crisis is the loss of stable land due to melting permafrost. Leveraging our expertise in Arctic architecture, BIOSIS conducted a feasibility study that re-examined building sites and foundation methods. Through in-depth analysis of the natural landscape, climate, vegetation, construction techniques, and community needs, we identified new opportunities for climate-driven and minimal impact development in previously unsuitable areas in two Labrador towns.

Climate-driven and resilient design
This new housing development includes approximately 55 mixed-unit residences, designed for seniors, single individuals, couples, and families in the mountainous terrain of a town in Labrador.

Guided by BIOSIS' climate-driven design approach, the buildings are elevated on structural pillars, reducing the need for extensive ground disturbance while allowing for natural snow accumulation and effective water runoff. By introducing alternative foundation methods, BIOSIS has made it possible to build in previously overlooked areas with existing infrastructure.

The architects' climate-driven design approach helped create a structure that withstands extreme weather conditions while ensuring high energy efficiency. The integration of local materials and passive design strategies enhances durability and minimizes energy consumption, making the homes both cost-effective and resilient in Arctic conditions.

Creating self-sufficient communities
Beyond housing, the development incorporates essential shared amenities tailored to local needs and traditions. Workshops, secured storage for fuel and firearms, a community freezer, skidoo parking, and multi-purpose utility rooms all contribute to a self-sufficient and interconnected community.

Situated at the town’s edge, adjacent to a protected natural area, the development is designed to integrate seamlessly with its surroundings. A small public nature centre will serve as a bridge between the community and the landscape, fostering environmental awareness and a deeper connection to the land.

Rethinking land use for resilient housing in Atlantic Canada

A major challenge in Arctic and Atlantic Canada’s housing crisis is the loss of stable land due to melting permafrost. Leveraging our expertise in Arctic architecture, BIOSIS conducted a feasibility study that re-examined building sites and foundation methods. Through in-depth analysis of the natural landscape, climate, vegetation, construction techniques, and community needs, we identified new opportunities for climate-driven and minimal impact development in previously unsuitable areas in two Labrador towns.

A climate-driven, minimal-impact approach
Following an extensive feasibility study conducted by BIOSIS—analyzing the natural landscape, vegetation, climatic conditions, construction methodologies, tectonics, and societal dynamics—a suitable site was identified within the mountainous terrain of a town in Labrador.

Rooted in BIOSIS’s philosophy of climate-driven design, the project prioritizes minimal environmental impact while ensuring long-term resilience and energy efficiency. To preserve the natural topography and reduce costs, the design minimizes blasting, opting instead for an elevated pillar system that allows buildings to adapt seamlessly to the steep mountain slope.

This approach not only reduces construction impact but also enhances durability by allowing snow to accumulate naturally beneath the structures, mitigating wind exposure and enabling controlled water runoff. Designed for extreme Arctic conditions, the buildings feature high thermal performance and passive design strategies, reducing energy consumption while maximizing efficiency and comfort for residents.

Strengthening community ties and liveability
A key priority of the development is ensuring strong connections to the town’s existing infrastructure, preventing the creation of isolated, inefficient communities. The project promotes intelligent land use, ensuring that new homes and shared facilities contribute to the town’s social and cultural vitality.

The development consists of approximately 25 mixed-use residential units designed for seniors, single individuals, couples, and families. In addition to housing, the project incorporates essential community resources that support local ways of living.

A dedicated language nest fosters intergenerational language preservation, strengthening cultural continuity. Shared workshops and utility rooms provide opportunities for skill development and self-sufficiency, supporting both traditional and modern practices. Designated skidoo parking ensures accessibility for daily and seasonal transportation, while secured storage for fuel and firearms enhances safety. A community freezer reinforces food security, preserving traditional food practices and reducing reliance on external supply chains.

Exploring New-Wes-Valley: Our First Site Visit

Our first site visit with our local partner, unArchitecture, took us to the rugged landscapes of New-Wes-Valley, Newfoundland and Labrador - a place where bedrock shapes both the terrain and the architectural challenges ahead. Designing for such an environment calls for a climate-driven, minimal-impact approach, ensuring that new structures integrate seamlessly with their natural surroundings.

A heartfelt thank you to the New-Wes-Valley community for the warm welcome, even in the midst of snow and cold. We’re excited to begin this meaningful project and look forward to developing resilient housing solutions that respect the land and support the community.

Stay tuned as we bring this vision to life!

BIOSIS and unArchitecture to lead groundbreaking project in New-Wes-Valley

We’re thrilled to announce that BIOSIS, in partnership with unArchitecture, has been selected to design an innovative new project in the stunning New-Wes-Valley, Newfoundland and Labrador.

This project is an exciting opportunity to redefine the region with bold, climate-driven architecture that addresses unique challenges, including rugged landscapes and limited development-ready land. Our design approach will harmonize with the natural environment while enhancing the local community.

We’re deeply honoured to collaborate with the Town of New-Wes-Valley to create architecture that doesn’t just adapt to its surroundings but thrives as an integral part of them. Stay tuned for updates as we bring this vision to life.