18‑Unit Affordable Housing
Cohesive Mechanical engineered quiet, safe, and energy-efficient heating, cooling, and sprinkler systems for a trauma-informed housing facility supporting women and families.
Wilma’s Transition Society
Overview
Cohesive Mechanical partnered with Wilma’s Transition Society (a non‑profit supporting women and children fleeing violence) to deliver an 18-unit housing complex providing long-term, affordable homes for women, children, and elders. The building includes a mix of one- to three-bedroom suites, amenity rooms, and counselling offices in a warm, community-focused environment. The society owns and operates the building under a 20‑year housing agreement with the City of Chilliwack. The federal government has invested over $10 million through the National Housing Co‑Investment Fund, and the City contributed approximately $179,000 for off‑site servicing upgrades. Construction was completed in fall 2023.
Key Challenges
Sensitive occupant group – Housing is targeted at women and children recovering from interpersonal violence. Safety, privacy and comfort were paramount.
Small urban site – The building had to fit 18 units plus on‑site services on a constrained lot along Vedder Road.
Affordability targets – Rents were set based on CMHC guidelines, necessitating energy‑efficient systems to keep ongoing costs low.
Funding and partnership – Federal (NHCF), provincial and municipal contributions each had performance requirements. The project also relied on the expertise of Wilma’s Transition Society, a non‑profit housing provider.
Our Solution
Cohesive Mechanical designed and installed plumbing, HVAC and fire‑suppression systems suited to a supportive‑housing environment:
Integrated HVAC and domestic hot water – A central high‑efficiency condensing boiler plant provides domestic hot water and supplies hydronic heating to fan‑coil units in each suite. Cooling is delivered via variable‑refrigerant heat pumps to ensure resident comfort year‑round.
Fire‑sprinkler system – NFPA‑compliant sprinklers protect occupants throughout the building, with dedicated booster pumps sized to municipal water pressure.
Sound‑attenuated ductwork – Recognizing the need for quiet living spaces, supply and return ducting incorporates acoustical lining and strategically placed silencers. Continuous HRV units deliver fresh air while maintaining balanced pressures.
Water‑saving fixtures – Low‑flow faucets, dual‑flush toilets and efficient showers minimize water usage without compromising occupant comfort.
Results
Safe, comfortable homes – The project provides stable, supportive housing for women and children. HVAC and plumbing systems meet code and deliver reliable performance.
Affordable operations – High‑efficiency boilers and VRF heat pumps reduce utility costs, enabling Wilma’s Transition Society to keep rents within the targeted range.
Expanded community support – By adding 18 long‑term rental units, the society increases its capacity beyond emergency shelters, helping families transition to independence.
Conclusion
Wilma’s affordable housing project illustrates how mechanical engineering can support social‑impact initiatives. Through thoughtful design of heating, cooling, plumbing and fire‑protection systems, Cohesive Mechanical contributed to a safe, efficient building that will serve vulnerable community members for decades.
