While the Yukon is best known for its expansive landscape, its housing market has struggled to keep pace with the growing demand, resulting in the need for densification, especially within the downtown core of Whitehorse. Providing high-density housing in Whitehorse requires a nuanced approach that balances the need for increased housing supply with the unique environmental and social factors of the region. Building R or 408 Wood Street, previously a single-family lot, has been converted into a 7-unit condominium project utilizing a downtown 50’x100’ lot in Whitehorse, YT. Developed through a series of test fit options exploring how to best maximize areas and efficiencies, 408 Wood Street accommodates for an accessible unit on the main floor, and two 2-bedroom and one 1-bedroom each on levels 2 and 3. 

Each unit accommodates for the typical Yukon lifestyle, relying on a vehicle to be able to get out into the wilderness. As a result, the building’s upper levels are elevated over surface parking since underground parking in the northern climate is not ideal. In helping to maximize the building’s footprint, the implementation of a non-combustible firewall allows for construction to the property line increasing buildable area The firewall, which does not permit unprotected openings (such as windows) was seen as an opportunity for an architectural mural to provide colourful vibrancy to the urban realm reflecting the colours found in the northern sky and provided the dual meaning of a positive welcoming space that can be seen from blocks away. This mural utilizes affordable vertical metal siding as a simple and cost-efficient solution to create complexity and to bring a sense of place and specificity to downtown Whitehorse.