1120 Ossington is a 25-unit supportive housing project developed by St. Clare’s Multifaith Housing Society to provide permanent, rent-geared-to-income housing for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness. The project is located on a surplus portion of land next to a previously converted church, which already houses 20 deeply affordable units.
Designed by Smart Density with mcCallumSather as Architects of Record and delivered by Assembly Corp, the project demonstrates how supportive housing can be delivered quickly, affordably, and sustainably, while fitting into a low-rise residential context.
CLIENT:
St Clare’s Multi-Faith Housing
LOCATION:
1120 Ossington Ave, Toronto
STATUS:
Built, 25 supportive units
SUSTAINABILITY:
40% better than NECB baseline
TEAM:
Assembly Corp.
mcCallumSather, Element5,
Loftin Management,
ASPECT Structural Engineers,
The Contract Framing Group Inc.
Urban Design Award (TUDA), 2025
The site presented multiple constraints: a limited footprint, the need for a rapid delivery timeline, a modest budget, and the requirement to integrate with the existing neighbourhood fabric. At the same time, the project had to meet high performance standards for long-term energy efficiency and livability, and provide tenants with a sense of dignity, autonomy, and stability. Additionally, the design had to account for the realities of mass timber modular construction, which limits formal articulation.
The team addressed these challenges through an innovative and coordinated approach. The building was constructed using a panelized, tilt-up mass timber system, allowing the core structure to be completed in just 17 days. The envelope is R40 nominal, the slab is Passive House-rated, and energy modelling shows a 40% improvement over NECB baseline. A BAS system will monitor real-time energy use against projected TEDI and TEUI values.
Each micro-unit includes a private kitchenette and bathroom, supporting autonomy and privacy. Shared interior spaces support social interaction and on-site services, while an exterior corridor improves natural ventilation and reduces energy load.
To overcome the formal limitations of modular construction, the building incorporates Wind Garden, a public art installation by Leo Krukowski. These custom perforated metal panels provide shade and privacy while casting dynamic shadows, referencing native plant forms and enhancing the streetscape.
The project was made possible through support from all levels of government, including the City of Toronto’s Open Doors and Concept 2 Keys programs, CMHC, provincial funding, and private donors—demonstrating how design, policy, and funding can come together to deliver high-quality supportive housing.
