In a truly inspirational example of innovative housing solutions, the Higgins family of Delta, British Columbia, has redefined what it means to create affordable, community-centric living. Faced with the challenges of rising home prices and limited space, John and Kathleen Higgins made a courageous decision: after three decades in their family home, they demolished it to make way for four distinct homes on the same lot. This visionary move not only secured a future for their children and grandchildren but also offered a powerful model for multiplex housing in the Vancouver area.
A History of Forward Thinking
Back in 1988, John and Kathleen Higgins purchased a modest 1,300-square-foot rancher on a quiet cul-de-sac in Delta, BC. Over the years, they raised their seven children in this home, but as time passed, they began to question the traditional suburban lot—a standard 66-foot lot that they felt wasted valuable space. Driven by a desire to make homeownership attainable for their family, the Higgins began envisioning an alternative: instead of a single, sprawling home, why not build multiple smaller homes clustered together to maximize space and foster a vibrant, multigenerational community?
Turning Vision into Reality
After years of pitching their idea to neighbors and local officials, John and Kathleen finally received unanimous approval from the city in 2016. This approval allowed them to demolish their longtime family home and construct two duplexes—resulting in four separate homes, each with its own land title. Their bold experiment was not just a renovation; it was a complete reimagining of how a single lot could be transformed into a family compound that meets the needs of a modern, diverse household.
The new development includes:
- Two homes measuring 830 square feet
- Two homes measuring 1,150 square feet
This range in sizes ensures that every member of the family finds a space suited to their needs. Today, John and Kathleen continue to reside in one of the units, staying rooted in the neighborhood they have cherished for decades. Their sons, James and Patrick, each own a separate unit—a lifeline in a region where traditional homeownership often seems out of reach. The fourth unit is occupied by their daughter, who rents it to their 94-year-old great-grandmother, ensuring that generations remain closely connected.
A Model for Multiplex Housing
The Higgins’ project is more than just a personal triumph; it represents a breakthrough in addressing the Vancouver housing crisis. With housing prices soaring and affordability diminishing, their decision to create multiple, independently titled homes on a single lot has sparked conversation among urban planners, developers, and community members alike.
By embracing a multiplex model, the Higgins have:
- Maximized Land Use: Instead of settling for a single-family home on a large lot, they have demonstrated that efficient space utilization can yield multiple homes, each with its own identity and financial independence.
- Enhanced Affordability: Their model allows each unit to be financed separately. This approach not only distributes the financial burden but also provides each homeowner with a pathway to equity—a critical benefit in today’s high-cost housing market.
- Fostered Community: With multiple generations living in close proximity, the family compound creates a natural support system. This close-knit arrangement is especially valuable for seniors and young families, who benefit from mutual support and shared resources.
Why Plex Living Believes in Multiplex Solutions
At Plex Living, we see the Higgins story as a beacon for the future of affordable, community-driven housing. Their innovative approach aligns perfectly with our mission: to empower buyers and builders to create vibrant, sustainable living environments through multiplex development. The Higgins’ transformation of a single, outdated home into a thriving family compound illustrates how multiplex housing can provide affordable, high-quality living spaces that honor tradition while embracing modernity.
We believe that innovative housing solutions like this are essential for solving the housing crisis. With Vancouver and other Canadian cities facing similar challenges, forward-thinking models like the Higgins project demonstrate that multiplex living is not only feasible—it’s necessary.
Watch the Inspiring Story
For a deeper look into this incredible transformation, check out this YouTube video that captures the journey of John and Kathleen Higgins. Their story is a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and the drive to create a better future for the next generation.
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