Collaborative Housing Models
FRAMEWORK By VanMar Constructors Targets Standardization
Colin Smith — April 4, 2026FRAMEWORK is a collaborative model designed to accelerate the delivery of affordable housing by standardizing development processes and consolidating expertise across design, construction and operations. The initiative brings together VanMar Constructors, VanMar Developments, Arcadis and EllisDon Community Builders to create a repeatable approach intended to reduce project timelines and improve cost predictability. FRAMEWORK focuses on mid‑rise and high‑rise residential buildings and applies a set of pre‑validated design and construction solutions that can be adapted to different municipal requirements. The partners note that this structure supports faster approvals and more efficient procurement while maintaining compliance with local planning and building codes.
The model is being applied to multiple projects in British Columbia, including developments in Vancouver, Burnaby and Surrey, with additional sites under consideration. FRAMEWORK is positioned as a response to the increasing demand for non‑market and below‑market housing, offering municipalities and housing providers a pathway to scale delivery without restarting design and engineering work for each project. VanMar’s role includes construction management and integration of standardized building components, while Arcadis provides design leadership and EllisDon Community Builders contributes expertise in financing and long term operations. The partners indicate that the approach is intended to support provincial housing targets and create a pipeline of replicable, cost efficient residential buildings.