Pacifica Burnside Housing is an affordable, energy-efficient residential development in Victoria, BC, designed by Christine Lintott Architects (CLA) in collaboration with BC Housing, Pacifica Housing, School District 61, and the City of Victoria. Situated on a former school site, the project reimagines an underutilized parcel as a socially connected, high-performance urban infill community.

The design parti centers on framing and animating an open courtyard—preserving a beloved green space while welcoming new community life. Rather than occupying the site, the buildings define its edges, creating permeability and continuity with the existing adult learning centre housed in the repurposed school.

Simple, durable architecture supports constructability and long-term performance. Clean lines, stacked modules, and articulated frames break down massing, while subtle pops of colour lend a playful counterpoint. The buildings are fully electric and meet BC Energy Step Code standards, with high-performance envelopes, efficient mechanical systems, and minimized thermal bridging.

The courtyard, designed with both soft and hardscape elements, is the heart of the site—encouraging movement, gathering, and intergenerational engagement. The inclusion of a daycare and community programming enhances the site's vitality, ensuring shared use beyond the residential component.

CLA’s collaborative approach—grounded in practicality, responsiveness, and design clarity—was central to the project’s success. Working closely with Townline Housing Solutions and trades throughout construction, CLA delivered a project that is both technically sound and deeply human in scale and intent.

Pacifica Burnside exemplifies CLA’s commitment to integrating architecture, community, and sustainability. The project is a compelling model for infill housing that prioritizes social connection, climate responsibility, and enduring design.