162 Main Street Vancouver: Anhart's Supportive Housing Development Case Study
In the heart of Vancouver's Downtown Eastside (DTES), 162 Main Street stands as a beacon of innovative affordable housing solutions. As the original developers, Anhart spearheaded this transformative project, creating a 6-storey mixed-use building that combines supportive housing, secured market rentals, and vibrant ground-level retail. This case study explores the challenges, innovations, and lasting impact of this key Vancouver affordable housing development.
Project Overview: Addressing Vancouver's Affordable Housing Crisis
Located at 162 Main St, Vancouver, BC, this 32,000 sq ft development features:
69 self-contained micro-suite units (designed for flexibility – many can be combined into 1- or 2-bedroom configurations in the future)
A mix of supportive housing and secured market rental units
Two commercial retail units (CRUs) at grade level
Basement storage, shared amenities, and a full rooftop garden
Anhart initiated the project to provide stable, high-quality housing for individuals transitioning from homelessness or facing barriers in Vancouver's tight rental market. Learn more about our approach to affordable housing in Canada (Anhart) and how we build inclusive communities.
Development Challenges and Innovative Solutions
The narrow, mid-block site presented unique structural challenges, including zero-lot-line conditions on all sides. Anhart's team opted for a hybrid structure: five storeys of efficient light wood-frame construction atop a concrete podium and basement. This approach maximized unit count while ensuring durability and sustainability.
Key innovations included:
Mergeable micro-units for future adaptability
Rooftop amenity space promoting community and wellness
Ground-floor retail to activate the street and support local economy
Despite financing hurdles common in non-profit supportive housing developments, Anhart's expertise ensured the project moved forward, ultimately delivering much-needed homes in the DTES. Read about our broader portfolio of affordable housing projects across British Columbia.
Impact on the Community: Supportive Housing in Action
Since completion, 162 Main Street has provided safe, supportive homes for dozens of Vancouver residents. Operated in partnership with experienced non-profit providers, the building offers on-site supports tailored to tenants' needs – from mental health resources to life skills programs.
This project aligns with Anhart's mission to create self-sufficient communities. By focusing on Vancouver supportive housing and mixed-income models, we've contributed to reducing homelessness in one of Canada's most vulnerable neighbourhoods.
Explore similar initiatives in our portfolio or discover how we're scaling affordable housing nationwide.
Why Choose Anhart for Affordable Housing Development in Vancouver?
As a vertically integrated non-profit developer, Anhart brings decades of experience in DTES renovations, new builds, and community-led projects. From SRO upgrades to modern mixed-use developments like 162 Main Street, we prioritize people, sustainability, and long-term impact.
Interested in partnering on your next project? Contact us today to discuss affordable housing solutions in Vancouver and beyond.
Check out Greater Vancouver Online - A web directory for Greater Vancouver.