In 2005, Barr Ryder Architects & Planners were commissioned by the Government of Yukon to undertake the design of a housing complex adjacent to Yukon College in Whitehorse, for 1,800 athletes competing in the 2007 Jeux du Canada Games.

The design program of the 2007 Winter Games recognized the significance of providing safe and comfortable housing for athletes. Following a review of the facility requirements, the project sponsor determined that constructing permanent housing would satisfy a current housing shortage for students and seniors. Working with the design team, the Yukon Government established a comprehensive housing design base line that would meet the interim requirement of accommodating athletes and the long term service as affordable students and seniors residences.

The project was developed along a fast track schedule with design work commencing in the fall of 2005 and construction of the facility to be completed by November 2006.

To meet the aggressive construction schedule and address the shortage of labour in the Yukon the design team elected to design the buildings as modular units constructed off site and shipped to Whitehorse for final assembly. On site construction consists of building foundations and the central core of the facility.

Each residence is constructed to full barrier free accessible units including entrances, kitchen and bathrooms and access to common areas. Each floor contains a common lounge and laundry area for the occupants. Basement areas include spaces for recreation and multipurpose functions.

24 suite Student Residence consisting of:

- 12 two-bedroom units
- 12 three-bedroom units
- Common lounge/laundry areas
- Common multipurpose/recreation areas

48 suite Seniors Apartment Building consisting of:

- 18 one-bedroom units
- 30 two-bedroom units
- Common lounge/laundry areas
- Common multipurpose/recreation areas

Both of these residences will be legacy projects from the 2007 Canada Winter Games. The total construction budget of the two buildings is $30.0 million.

The specification of the building components meets or exceeds that of an institutional design with an emphasis on low maintenance. Large bright suites, wide corridors, and open public spaces open onto the surrounding mountain vistas.