Under the Hard Hat

Category: Projects

Affordable housing projects underway in Canada (2025-2027)
In today’s economy, affordable housing construction projects are hard to come by. Canada, in particular, is seeing a high demand for affordable housing that greatly exceeds the available supply. In Quebec alone, it’s estimated that close to 51,000 households are on a waitlist for affordable housing. In 2025, Canadians will see a few large-scale affordable housing options pop up, like 1600 Av. de Lorimier Place, Hart Road, and Blatchford. While these projects won’t put a dent in the nation’s affordable housing demand, they will relieve hundreds of families from having to continue their search.

5 affordable housing projects being built across Canada

1. 1600 Av. De Lorimier Place

Location: Montreal, Quebec
Size/specs: 304 Units
Timeline: Completion estimated October 2026

Located in the heart of Montreal, 1,600 Av. De Lorimier is a collaboration between developer Bertone and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. The new high-rise building will include 304 units and has been designed with energy efficiency and accessibility in mind.

This project is expected to revitalize the Centre-Sud district while complementing and preserving the old Barsalou soap factory. Like many buildings in Montreal, it’s a building style that converts old industrial into modern residential. The building is currently in development and is slated for completion in the fall of 2026.

2. Gladstone Village

Location: Ottawa, Ontario
Size/specs: 338 Units
Timeline: Completion estimated 2027

Gladstone Village is an affordable housing and mixed-use project consisting of 338 residential units as well as retail and office space. The residential options include mixed-income, mixed-low-density (high, low, and mid-rise), and mixed-tenure (rent or own) options. Phase one, currently under construction, will see an 18-story building with 2,000 square feet of commercial space.

The Ottawa Community Housing project will include both indoor and outdoor spaces for residents to enjoy. The design boasts sustainability features, including high-efficiency heating and cooling and wastewater heat recovery. The roof of the building will also have solar photovoltaic (PV) panels.

The project, slated for completion in 2027, will include scooter and bicycle parking, a fitness room, an event space, EV charging stations, indoor and outdoor lounges, and more.

3. Naut’sa Mawt

Location: Courtenay, British Columbia
Size/specs: 40 Units
Timeline: Recently finished

The development for Naut’sa Mawt was recently finished in May 2025 and contains 40 affordable homes prioritized for Indigenous people in the Courtenay, British Columbia area. Naut’sa Mawt (pronounced not-sa mott) is a Coast Salish word that means “together as one,” and project manager Wachiay Friendship Centre Society aims to bring the community together with a mix of studio and one-bed units in the 5-story wood frame building.

The rent in Naut’sa Mawt will range from $500 to around $1,300 per month, and almost all units will be adaptable or accessible for people with diverse needs. The project managers hope to facilitate the gathering of indigenous and non-indigenous communities to exchange culture and traditions. The building will also be located right across from the Wachiay Friendship Centre, which offers more than 50 services to the Courtenay community.

4. Hart Road

Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Size/specs: 164 Homes
Timeline: Completion estimated for fall 2025

Hart Road is one project on our list near completion. It’s described as a self-contained community specifically for the First Nations and Métis peoples. Managed by Camponi, this project will bring unity, community, and empowerment to Indigenous communities. Camponi surveyed members of the community to get a sense of what they’d like to see in the building, and Indigenous daycare topped the list and will be offered.

The project features 164 units and is supported by Saskatoon’s affordable housing plan. It will also feature a gym and a community kitchen. Phase one is expected to be completed in June 2025, with tenants moving in as early as the fall.

5. Blatchford development

Location: Edmonton, Alberta
Size/specs: 401 Units
Timeline: Full community completion by 2042

Edmonton’s Blatchford development is the largest on our list, with 401 total units. This project aims to establish an affordable, carbon-neutral community. Located in the heart of the city, Blatchford will actually be built on the site of the former Edmonton City Centre Airport. It will have green areas and many energy-efficient amenities like solar panels and district energy systems.

Smart city features include smart waste management, water conservation, and traffic monitoring in an effort to reduce the community’s carbon footprint. The project also features a mix of housing options catered to incomes of all levels, making it accessible for all.

Is large-scale affordable housing construction growing in 2025?

Currently, the Canadian residential construction market has been grappling with internal and external factors that have slowed growth and availability over the past few years. The main challenges the market is facing include rising interest rates, mortgage rates, and labor shortages in the construction industry.

Large-scale construction projects, in particular, are also struggling with developer financing. Increased borrowing costs make many projects less financially viable. The market is also facing issues with skilled worker gaps. Where construction does pick up, there is often a lack of qualified workers, which slows down project quality and completion timelines.

Finally, the market is experiencing rising material costs, shortages, and supply chain disruptions. While not new, these challenges combine to slow the growth of the market, while affordable housing demand is only rising. Hope, however, is not completely lost as new leaders in government bring new initiatives to mitigate the issues plaguing the industry.

What to expect next in affordable housing construction

Although there are many ongoing challenges, there are also factors that could contribute to a rebound in affordable housing construction in Canada. Here are some elements that could contribute to new opportunities for some small contractors:
- Government housing programs and initiatives: The Canadian government has been working toward improving housing affordability. They’ve allocated funds to affordable housing initiatives, have increased investments in infrastructure in urban areas, and have offered tax breaks and other financial incentives to smaller contractors working on residential units.
- Interest rate stabilization: As the Bank of Canada makes an effort to curb inflation, interest rates are expected to stabilize in 2025. The plateau should bring slower mortgage rates and may stimulate the demand for new affordable homes.
- Technology advancements in construction: Modular and prefabricated construction have risen in popularity, making it easier for developers to save time and money. This, combined with the increase in construction AI and automation, helps reduce labor costs, increases project speed, and potentially meets the rising housing demand.
Don’t expect these factors to change the market overnight, but they could compound and balance out the demand vs supply starting this year and continuing into the future. With the new administration in place, there might be shifts in policy that accelerate housing starts or slow the progression of more affordable projects throughout the country.

Loved this article about affordable housing in Canada? Check out similar articles about the housing market and upcoming construction projects, including a look at data center construction projects underway and why mid-rise construction is the sweet spot for housing growth.

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July 11, 2025
The $2.2B Place Versailles project: From mall into 5,000 homes

Montreal’s Place Versailles shopping center is about to get a facelift. The iconic property, once a retail hub on Sherbrooke Street East, is set to be at the center of a $2.2 billion redevelopment that will add over 5,805 housing units, including 979 social housing units, and a fresh new urban design. The Place Versailles project marks one of the city’s largest mixed-use redevelopments in recent history, shifting the focus from big-box retail toward housing and pedestrian-friendly streets.

Housing, retail, and office space take center stage in Place Versailles

Developer Groupe Mach plans to demolish a large portion of the mall, keeping only 200,000 square feet of retail while integrating shops and services into the ground floors of residential towers. The new neighborhood will include more than 1.5 million square feet of housing in the form of rental apartments and affordable units. Mach says at least 15 percent will be set aside for affordable housing helping to address Montreal’s growing housing crisis.

Place Versailles project rendering

Alongside the residential build, the site will see 500,000 square feet of office space, a public plaza, a new elementary school, a daycare, and green spaces. The plan also calls for a redesigned bus terminal and transit connections to encourage active transportation. Groupe Mach’s goal is to make Place Versailles a walkable neighborhood where residents can live, work, and access services within a few blocks.

By reusing land previously locked into surface parking and low-density commercial uses, the project reduces urban sprawl and car dependency. Plans also include landscaped roofs, green corridors, and buildings designed to meet energy efficiency standards, though final certifications have yet to be confirmed.

This massive overhaul is seen as a way to reimagine aging shopping malls into thriving residential and commercial hubs. According to the city, the project is expected to create over 5,000 jobs during construction and add much-needed housing units in a neighborhood that has seen minimal residential growth in decades.

Demolition of parts of the mall are expected to begin in 2026, with phase one units available by 2028. Groupe Mach hopes the project will inject new life into the area, attracting young families and retirees looking for urban living options with local amenities.

To stay up to date on construction projects like this and see how aging malls are being reimagined into modern mixed-use communities, subscribe to Under the Hard Hat’s newsletter at https://underthehardhat.org/join-us/.

July 9, 2025
Nova Scotia to host Canada’s first large-scale mass timber plant

Canada’s first large-scale mass timber industrial plant is officially breaking ground in Elmsdale, Nova Scotia, an exciting step toward greener building and stronger local economies. Backed by a $10.5 million federal investment, this facility will use eastern Canadian spruce to manufacture structural panels for residential and commercial construction, all while creating more than 100 skilled jobs in the region.

The new plant is a joint project between the federal government, the Province of Nova Scotia, and Lloyoll Built, a sustainable building company based in Brooklyn, N.S. The site will operate as a fully integrated facility, processing wood, assembling panels, and manufacturing modular housing components in one location. That means fewer emissions, less waste, and a streamlined supply chain that benefits builders and buyers.

Image sourced from Shutterstock

The new mass timber facility in Elmsdale is expected to create 124 new jobs and significantly boost Nova Scotia’s growing offsite construction sector. With an added 2.5 million square feet of annual construction capacity, the plant will help close a critical gap in Canada’s national mass timber supply chain. It’s a boost not just for the economy but for climate-conscious housing initiatives across the country.

“MTC will be one of the world’s most advanced manufacturing facilities… maximizing the value of our forests from tree to city,” said Patrick Crabbe, President and CEO of Mass Timber Company.

Mass timber has been gaining popularity as a sustainable alternative to concrete and steel. It’s lighter, faster to build with, and stores carbon rather than emitting it. With Canada facing a nationwide housing crunch and growing pressure to decarbonize the construction industry, the timing of this facility couldn’t be better.

“Today’s investments are excellent examples of how we can reduce emissions while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the lumber industry,” said Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources. Elmsdale’s new plant positions Atlantic Canada as a leader in green building innovation while keeping the roots of that innovation deeply local.

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July 4, 2025
Waldorf Astoria Hotel: Building the tallest skyscraper in Florida
The Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences Miami is redefining the city’s skyline as its first supertall skyscraper. Rising to 1,049 feet with 100 stories, this architectural marvel features a distinctive stacked-cube design conceived by Carlos Ott and brought to life by Sieger Suarez Architects. Located at 300 Biscayne Boulevard, the tower will house 387 private residences and 205 luxury guest rooms, offering panoramic views of Downtown Miami, Miami Beach, and the Atlantic Ocean.

The Waldorf Astoria Hotel & Residences Miami will stand as the tallest building in the entire state of Florida once completed. It will dramatically alter the city’s skyline and usher in a new chapter for vertical construction in the Southeast. At 100 stories, it’s the first “supertall” skyscraper in the region—a classification reserved for towers over 984 feet. Its visibility from land, sea, and air will serve as an unmistakable new landmark for the city.

Behind the design

Designed by Sieger Suarez Architects in collaboration with Carlos Ott, the the Waldorf Astoria Hotel’s profile is unlike anything else in the region. Its nine offset glass cubes appear to be stacked with a slight twist, giving the tower a distinct, sculptural silhouette. This creative approach allows for more corner units to maximize ocean views. The structure’s visual impact has already generated global attention and could influence future high-rise designs in coastal cities.

The foundation required 36 auger cast piles drilled to a record depth of 190 feet. This deep foundation work was necessary due to Miami’s soft soil and coastal conditions. The operation involved 1,200 truckloads and 100+ workers on-site. It marked one of the largest concrete pours in Florida’s history.

In total, the the Waldorf Astoria Hotel will feature 387 private residences, each designed to match the tower’s luxury branding. Units come equipped with smart-home technology, top-tier finishes, floor-to-ceiling windows, and custom Italian cabinetry. Residents will have access to white-glove concierge services and Waldorf Astoria’s signature hospitality. From panoramic views of Biscayne Bay to curated interiors, the tower’s residential experience will set a new bar for upscale urban living.

Amenities

Owners and guests will have access to amenities that rival top resorts. These include:
- Resort-style pool deck
- Private cabanas
- State-of-the-art fitness center
- Full-service spa
- Private dining rooms, meeting spaces, and an exclusive restaurant by a celebrity chef
Current state of construction

As of March 2025, the the Waldorf Astoria Hotel has reached its 19th floor, with progress moving at roughly one floor every ten days. Crews are working on a tight schedule to meet a projected completion date in 2027. Each level brings new structural, MEP, and architectural milestones. With the rhythm in place, the building is steadily making its mark on the skyline.

For more updates on cutting-edge construction projects like this one, subscribe to our newsletter at underthehardhat.org/join-us. We cover the real stories behind the builds—how they’re designed, how they go up, and the people making it happen.
June 30, 2025
How much does a lane of highways cost? A full breakdown
If you’re working in public infrastructure, urban planning, or construction—or just wondering what goes into those mile-long stretches of highway—the price tag might surprise you. Building a single lane of road isn’t cheap, and the final cost depends on everything from where it’s built to how wide the lanes are. Still, some solid averages can help you get a sense of the numbers.

Quick look:
- Highway lane costs range from $2M in rural areas to over $15M in urban zones
- Major cost drivers include location, terrain, materials, lane width, and project scope
- Urban projects are more expensive due to utility relocations, land acquisition, and permitting
- Repairing existing roads often yields better ROI than new highway construction
How much it costs to build a mile of road

Road construction costs aren’t set in stone, literally or figuratively. Costs can vary significantly depending on where you’re building, the level of development in the area, and the type of road you’re installing. That said, some ballpark figures can help you understand the cost per mile of highway.

According to Compass International and data shared by Midwest Industrial Supply, a rural two-lane road typically runs between $2 million and $3 million per mile. These lower costs reflect fewer right-of-way issues, simpler engineering, and less traffic disruption.

Move that same construction into a more urban environment, and you’re likely looking at $3 million to $5 million per mile, sometimes even higher. That’s because city builds often involve utility relocations, traffic management plans, and more complex permitting and land acquisition.

These figures usually include:
- Materials (asphalt or concrete)
- Labor and equipment
- Site grading and drainage
- Engineering and design work
- Utility relocation (in urban zones)
- Land acquisition or right-of-way clearing (if needed)
Keep in mind: these are just estimates for standard lanes. Highways, bridges, overpasses, and other infrastructure layers can send costs soaring beyond these base numbers.

Breakdown of cost based on size and type of lane

The number of lanes, traffic flow, and location all play a significant role in determining the cost of a mile of road. The more lanes you add, the more materials, labor, and planning you’ll need, especially in dense, urban areas.

Here’s a rough cost breakdown per mile based on road size and type:
- Two-lane undivided rural road: $2 – $3 million
- Two-lane urban road: $3 – $5 million
- Four-lane highway in rural areas: $4 – $6 million
- Four-lane divided highway in urban areas: $6 – $10 million
- Six-lane urban highway: $8 – $12 million
- Eight-lane urban freeway: $10 – $15+ million
These highway construction estimates account for major cost drivers, such as earthwork, drainage, base and surface layers, signage, and striping. Still, they don’t include add-ons like bridges, lighting, or traffic signals, which can add millions more.

Factors that affect the cost of building a lane of highway

When it comes to road construction, a variety of factors can influence costs. Beyond just lane count, factors such as geography, regulations, and material choices can significantly impact a budget.

Here’s a closer look at what impacts the final price tag:
- Location: Buildings in urban areas typically come with higher land acquisition costs, more traffic management challenges, and stricter permitting requirements. There is also the added cost of relocating underground utilities, which can become expensive quickly.
- Terrain: Flat, stable land is a lot easier—and cheaper—to build on. If you’re dealing with hills, wetlands, or rocky ground, expect to pay more for grading, drainage systems, retaining walls, and specialized equipment.
- Type of construction: New highway construction tends to be more costly than resurfacing or lane-widening projects. That’s because it involves everything from clearing land and laying foundations to building new infrastructure, such as bridges or culverts.
- Number of lanes: More lanes mean more materials, more equipment, more time, and more labor. Even adding just one lane can significantly bump up the price per mile.
- Lane width: Standard lanes are approximately 12 feet wide, but this may vary depending on the road type or local regulations. Wider lanes require more materials, while narrower ones may need extra safety features to meet modern standards.
- Materials used: Asphalt is often less expensive upfront and quicker to install, making it a go-to for many projects. Concrete, on the other hand, costs more initially but tends to last longer with less maintenance, making it a better long-term investment in some cases.
Repairing highways can be the smarter (and cheaper) move

When budgets are tight and infrastructure is aging, the question isn’t just how much to spend; it’s where to spend it. While building new roads can seem like progress, experts argue that repairing and maintaining existing highways often offers a more significant return on investment. Here’s why fixing what we already have can make more sense than starting from scratch:
- Lower upfront costs: Full-scale highway replacements, particularly bridges and interchanges, can cost hundreds of millions. Targeted repairs, resurfacing, and spot fixes cost far less and can extend the road’s life significantly.
- Reduced long-term maintenance: Well-timed repairs can delay major reconstruction by years. That means fewer emergency fixes, less wear and tear on vehicles, and more stable long-term budgeting.
- Less disruption: Highway replacement can shut down key routes for months or even years. Repairs, on the other hand, are faster and less intrusive, minimizing headaches for commuters and surrounding communities.
- Better use of public funds: Instead of expanding infrastructure that may not be needed in the long term, maintenance focuses dollars on what’s already in place, ensuring it stays safe, functional, and cost-effective.
- Avoiding induced demand: Widening highways may seem like a solution to traffic congestion, but in many cases, it actually leads to more cars and further congestion. This “induced demand” effect has been well documented and can lead to a cycle of endless expansion and rising maintenance costs.
A growing number of experts—and studies—agree that the U.S. should adopt a “fix-it-first” approach to highway spending. Research from the National Bureau of Economic Research supports this strategy, demonstrating that maintaining and repairing existing roads yields better value than constructing new ones. With limited budgets and aging infrastructure, prioritizing repairs over expansion makes sense.

Bottom line

There’s no flat-rate sticker price for building a lane of highway. Variables such as geography, lane design, and construction scope all influence the total costs. Estimates give a solid starting point for contractors, engineers, planners, and even curious taxpayers trying to make sense of the numbers behind the pavement.

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June 20, 2025
Mojave Desert water project: Securing wate supply for Californians

California is investing in a $275 million infrastructure project in the Mojave Desert to secure long-term water supply for Southern California. With growing uncertainty around the Colorado River and Northern California imports, the project offers a new local solution that could serve up to 400,000 people.

Source: Cadiz

Led by Cadiz Inc., the Cadiz Water Supply and Storage Project is designed to create a reliable and sustainable water source by tapping into an underutilized aquifer beneath privately held land. The water will be captured and stored during wet years. Once captured it will be delivered through a new 43-mile pipeline connection to the Colorado River Aqueduct during dry spells. Global design and engineering firm Stantec has been brought on to oversee planning and design.

Watch this video for more information on the science behind the project.

Beyond water security, the project promises significant economic and environmental benefits. Using water with lower salinity than current Colorado River sources will help local providers cut treatment costs. This is estimated to save ratepayers an estimated $400 million over the project’s 50-year lifespan. It also means safer water with less wear on pipes and sewer systems.

The Cadiz project is expected to inject $878 million into the local economy and create nearly 6,000 well-paying jobs, with a majority earmarked for local residents and unions. An ongoing contribution of $6 million annually will support San Bernardino County’s budget, including dedicated funds for local schools.

Environmental concerns have been front and center throughout development. The project has undergone extensive review from independent scientists, state agencies, and courts. The combined parties have concluded it will not harm the desert ecosystem. A strict groundwater management plan is set so the project can be paused if aquifer levels fall below a safe threshold. This decision puts long-term environmental health on equal footing with infrastructure goals.

By combining forward-thinking water storage and strong environmental oversight, the Mojave Desert project offers a future model for water supply in dry regions.

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June 13, 2025
Massive 2 billion transformation is underway for the Houston convention district

A major transformation is underway in Houston’s convention district worth $2 billion in total. The plan includes new housing, parks, retail, and a long-awaited connection to the city’s light rail system, all centered around the George R. Brown Convention Center.

The multi-phase project, led by Houston First Corporation and the City of Houston, is being brought to life by a powerhouse team. Hines is serving as the development manager, with Populous leading the architectural design and Jacobs Advance Planning Group designing the landscape. Gilbane Building Company and Flintco Construction are overseeing the build as joint construction managers. The project will add roughly 1,000 new housing units to the area, including both market-rate and affordable options. These units will help bring more residents downtown, support local businesses, and provide new life to the area after hours.

A multibillion-dollar makeover is planned around Houston’s George R. Brown Convention Center, as shown in this rendering.

A new public park is also in the works, adding much-needed green space to the urban core. The new biophilic design will feature a slatted wood roof, a bright, open foyer filled with natural light, and warm, earthy touches inspired by Houston’s bayous and prairie landscape—including wood accents, natural tones, and lush greenery throughout. Combined with street-level retail and dining, the changes aim to create an inviting environment for locals and visitors alike.

“This project is truly transformative for downtown Houston, a lasting legacy that will solidify our position as a top-tier convention and entertainment destination,” said Mayor John Whitmire.

“Most importantly, we are creating a space that will build community, foster connection, and shape the future of Houston.”

The centerpiece of the Houston convention district plan is a new light rail connection that will improve transit time to the convention center. This transit upgrade will reduce traffic congestion and make it easier for Houstonians to get downtown without a car.

Officials hope the redevelopment will make Houston more competitive in attracting large events while also delivering everyday benefits to residents, such as job creation, improved infrastructure, and a more dynamic downtown experience.

Construction on the first phase is set to begin in 2025, with the entire project scheduled to open in 2028.

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June 13, 2025
Inside London’s new skyscrapers in Bankside: The Round

London’s skyline is set to evolve with the introduction of ‘The Round,’ a striking new development approved for Bankside. This ambitious project comprises three new skyscrapers: a 45-storey office building with approximately 800,000 square feet of sustainable office space and two residential towers of 40 and 22 storeys, respectively. Located at 18 Blackfriars Road, London’s new skyscrapers promise to bring a fresh look to the city’s riverside.

The residential towers are poised to add 433 new homes to the area, with a commendable commitment to affordability—40% of these units are designated as affordable housing. Beyond residential spaces, ‘The Round’ is set to enrich the community with 1,850 square meters of cultural venues at ground level, including a 300-seat auditorium designed to host various events and performances.

The architectural vision behind ‘The Round’ comes from the renowned firm Foster + Partners, which is celebrated for iconic designs such as The Gherkin and the Millennium Bridge. Their involvement ensures the development will be visually captivating and thoughtfully integrated into London’s urban fabric.

Each skyscraper is designed to be entirely electric and achieve net-zero carbon emissions during operation. This is facilitated mainly by ground-source heat pumps, which are expected to meet 95% of the site’s heating requirements. The development of London’s new skyscrapers also comes green spaces that benefit residents and the environment. The development aims to plant approximately 70 new trees within the green spaces, making sure that sustainability remains at the heart of this project.

What sets ‘The Round’ apart is its innovative approach to design, guided by a carefully crafted ‘wellbeing matrix’ that focuses on six key pillars: environment, movement, mindset, social connection, nutrition, and recovery. Internally, these pillars promote well-being through gardens, therapy rooms, napping pods, and fitness facilities. These amenities reflect a holistic approach to urban living, prioritizing occupants’ mental and physical health.

“We have designed a healthy mixed-use development that plugs into – and significantly enhances – the existing urban fabric,” said Nigel Dancey, head of studio at Foster + Partners. “Our proposal aspires to define the office of the future, with flexible floorplates for longevity and cascading green terraces, which bring a social dimension to the workplace.”

Construction is set to start later this year, with completion aimed for 2030.

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June 6, 2025
The Obama Presidential Center is nearing completion in Chicago

In Chicago’s historic Jackson Park, a transformative project is taking shape. The Obama Presidential Center, envisioned by former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, aims to be a community hub and educational space for the South Side of Chicago. The Center is designed to inspire civic engagement and leadership.

It will house a museum chronicling the Obama presidency, a branch of the Chicago Public Library (currently known as the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library), and spaces for community programs and events. The goal is to create a place where people can learn about history, engage in dialogue, and develop solutions for the future.

As a former Illinois senator and longtime Chicago resident, the city holds deep personal meaning for President Obama. When the plans for the Obama Presidential Center were first announced, the Obamas shared, “We are proud that the center will help spur development in an urban area, and we can’t wait to forge new ways to give back to the people of Chicago who have given us so much.” Though other locations were considered—including Hawaii, where Obama was born, and New York, where he went to college—Chicago ultimately won out as the Center’s permanent home.

The architectural design is led by Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects | Partners, known for their thoughtful and enduring institutional projects. They are collaborating with Chicago-based Interactive Design Architects (IDEA), headed by Dina Griffin, who brings local expertise and a commitment to community engagement.

Construction is managed by Lakeside Alliance, a joint venture comprising Powers & Sons Construction Company, UJAMAA Construction Inc., Brown & Momen, Inc., Safeway Construction Company, and Turner Construction Company.

Construction began in August 2021, with significant milestones already achieved. By June 2024, the Museum Building reached its full height of 225 feet. The Home Court, a 45,000-square-foot athletic and events space, was topped out in December 2024, with its steel framework completed. As of early 2025, exterior work, including the installation of glass and granite panels, is ongoing.

The Center’s design incorporates durable and locally sourced materials. The Museum Building features “Tapestry” granite cladding, providing a unique aesthetic. The structures utilize all-steel construction for strength and flexibility. The Home Court’s design includes basketball hoop-shaped exterior wedge walls, reflecting the community’s spirit and the Obamas’ connection to Chicago.

While the Center was initially slated to open in late 2025, the opening has been rescheduled to spring 2026 to ensure all aspects meet the project’s high standards. “More than a library or museum, it will be a living, working center for citizenship,” said Obama.

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May 30, 2025
BIG unveils stunning design for Bhutan’s Gelephu International Airport

Bhutan is gearing up for a major upgrade in connectivity, and it’s doing it in style. The Bhutan Gelephu International Airport, designed by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), is set to become a striking blend of traditional Bhutanese craftsmanship and cutting-edge architecture. This project is about creating an experience that reflects Bhutan’s deep cultural roots while embracing the future.

New design of Gelephu International Airport courtesy of https://big.dk/

Gelephu International Airport is Bhutan’s second international airport and will be a crucial part of the country’s growing transportation network. Located near the Bhutan-India border, right next to the Paitha River, it’s a key component of the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) master plan. The numbers tell an exciting story: this airport will be able to handle up to 123 flights daily and is expected to serve 1.3 million passengers by 2040—scaling up to a whopping 5.5 million by 2065.

BIG is known for pushing boundaries in architecture, and this project is no exception. The airport’s design features a modular diagrid structure made from sustainably sourced glulam timber, with intricate wood carvings crafted by Bhutanese artisans. These carvings, inspired by the traditional ‘Kachen’ pillars, represent both structural integrity and spiritual significance. The airport will be a functional work of art, showcasing Bhutanese heritage while delivering top-tier modern infrastructure.

New design of Gelephu International Airport courtesy of https://big.dk/

Modular timber frames will also make future expansions easier for this airport if needed. The design allows different sections to be disassembled and reassembled as needed, ensuring the airport can keep up with increasing passenger demand without requiring massive overhauls—another win for efficiency.

Built for sustainability

Bhutan has long been recognized for its commitment to sustainability—the world’s only carbon-negative country—and this airport is no exception. The terminal will partly be powered by rooftop solar panels, making it energy-efficient. Smart climate-responsive design elements like ventilated roofs, open courtyards, and extended eaves will help keep the terminal naturally cool, reducing the need for excessive air conditioning. The wooden framework itself will help regulate humidity, making the space comfortable for travelers year-round.

New design of Gelephu International Airport courtesy of https://big.dk/

If there’s one thing that sets this airport apart, it’s the emphasis on creating a tranquil, nature-filled experience. The ‘Forest Spine’—a central courtyard running through the terminal—will be filled with native plants, offering a peaceful space for travelers to relax. A treetop walkway and indoor-outdoor lounges will provide opportunities to unwind before a long-haul flight or upon arrival in Bhutan. This airport will feel more like a wellness retreat than a transit hub.

BIG’s vision for Gelephu International Airport shows how architecture can respect heritage while embracing sustainability. When completed, it’s set to become one of the world’s most unique and breathtaking air travel hubs.

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May 30, 2025