In Calgary, a significant initiative is underway to address the affordable housing crisis by converting nearly 100,000 square feet of office space into non-market housing. This project will take place in two downtown office towers, led by HomeSpace Society and the Trellis Society, which have been awarded the inaugural Downtown Non-Market Office Conversion Grant by the city. The program aims to foster a mix of affordable housing options in the city’s core, responding to ongoing demand for non-market residences.

The Trellis Society, in collaboration with Bluevale Capital Group, plans to convert office space located at 441 5 Avenue SW into 63 affordable units. The project's total cost is estimated at $27.8 million, with $6.2 million allocated from the city’s grant. The development will provide a variety of unit types, including studio, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, thereby catering to a diverse range of individuals and families seeking affordable living solutions in the heart of Calgary.

Additionally, the HomeSpace Society will utilize $4.1 million of the grant for its project at 1000 8 Avenue SW, which aims to create 65 units of non-market housing at a total project cost of approximately $27.5 million. This conversion is expected to include a mix of studio and multi-bedroom units as well. These initiatives are part of Calgary's ongoing efforts to repurpose unused or underutilized office spaces into viable and sustainable housing options, highlighting a progressive approach to urban development and community revitalization.