Would you like to live in a new home, in an established neighbourhood, with big trees, access to public transit and other amenities? If so, an infill home could be a great opportunity for you.

Infill homes are not new, and in fact have been around in Calgary and Edmonton for some time. The concept of infill continues to grow in Alberta, and is starting to hit some other cities, including Red Deer.

In large cities, infill is a big ‘buzz’ word, but why is infill becoming such a topic of conversation?

Before we look into this, we should answer the one question that’s on everyone’s mind.

infill in red deer
Rendering of a multi-family infill project in development in Edmonton

What is an infill?

An infill is the development of a new building in already mature neighbourhoods – typically replacing an older building already on the land. It can include commercial buildings, but it’s most commonly known as replacing and revitalizing older homes with modernized needs. An infill can include everything from duplexes, garage suites, row houses, semi-detached and detached houses, as well as apartments. Bottom line, it’s a means to revitalize existing neighbourhoods and communities.

What are the benefits of an infill?

 Infills can create many different options to fit the needs of new families, senior citizens, students and young professionals. Some people may want to build a suite onto their garage and rent out their main home or move into a new apartment complex in a desired neighbourhood. This can make the cost of living more affordable.

Infills can help reduce urban sprawl by making use of underused properties. This can help create diverse and vibrate neighbourhoods.

Positive infill development can lead to an increased use of local amenities. This in turn, allows city services to reach more residents at a lower cost. In most cases, building in mature neighbourhoods also helps save taxpayers money. Additional roads, sewers, and different infrastructure associated with building out new areas are avoided.

modern home in edmonton

Building more compact and sustainable

Utilizing infill lots can also help reduce our environmental footprint. By re-building in existing neighbourhoods, green spaces in and around the city can remain natural habitats.

Due to newer building code regulations, infill homes are also built more energy efficient. This will ultimately contribute to lower energy consumption throughout a community.

What makes a quality infill?

Infills can help bring vitality back into an older neighbourhood. Residential infills can allow people to live in a certain neighbourhood who previously couldn’t afford it. By increasing the number of people living in an area, businesses will then prosper by supporting the local economy.

Different projects like Net Zero Energy developments and solar communities could also be implemented.

Creating an infill lifestyle

Infills can help create walkable and easier access to area amenities. Communities that have a variety of services and businesses can entice more people to walk instead of driving to their destination.

City services can lean towards sending more transit service to areas that hold larger populations. The easier and frequent access to buses in your community can help you chose between different transportation options. Maybe you jump on a bus instead of driving your car to work, or perhaps you’re close enough to ride your bike to work.

traditional home in edmonton

Where to start?

Red Deer is evolving and part of this evolution is infill development. Alair Homes is here to help you learn more about the infill process from start to finish. Re-designing an older living space can significantly improve curb appeal and re-sale value in the future. There are many different options to transform an infill lot into your dream home.

We currently have a couple infill projects taking place in the city, and welcome anyone interested in an infill project to contact us to learn more, or see some example projects.