Amid growing housing shortages and the impacts of climate change, Laurentian University’s Institute for Northern Housing Innovation (INHI) is leading efforts to create affordable, sustainable housing solutions tailored for Northern Ontario communities by rethinking how homes are designed, built, and sustained in northern environments.
Through advanced technology and hands-on learning, the INHI is pioneering prefabricated housing systems built for durability, efficiency, and affordability in cold climates. Students use specialized manufacturing tools, such as CNC and robotic equipment to construct full-scale wall, floor, and roof assemblies, testing them for strength, energy performance, and sustainability. The institute also engages local builders through workshops that demonstrate how prefabrication and digital fabrication can reduce costs, improve efficiency and lower emissions.
Developing sustainable, low-carbon and affordable housing models tailored to the North’s unique climate, geography and social needs will not only improve living standards locally, but create templates for resilient housing across the country.
For more information, visit Laurentian University.
