Carisbrooke Place: A Calgary Community Project Recognized on the Global Stage

Carisbrooke Place: A Calgary Project Recognized on the Global Stage

Some projects make an impact not by standing out loudly, but by fitting thoughtfully into the communities they serve. Carisbrooke Place, located in Calgary’s Sunnyside neighbourhood, is one of those projects — and it’s now being recognized well beyond city limits.

Completed in 2024, Carisbrooke Place has been nominated for the 2026 ArchDaily Building of the Year Awards, placing it among projects from around the world that are shaping the future of architecture through design, performance, and purpose.

We’re grateful to have played a role in bringing this project to life.

Thoughtful Density, Designed for People

Carisbrooke Place reimagines what small-scale urban densification can look like when community comes first. The development includes four three-bedroom rental suites, each with secure parking, carefully arranged to balance privacy, shared space, and livability.

Rather than maximizing the building footprint, the design prioritizes a generous landscaped courtyard along the west property line — creating a semi-private outdoor space that feels more like an urban park than a traditional multi-family development. It’s a subtle but meaningful choice that reflects a people-first approach to housing.

Built with Calgary’s Climate in Mind

Resilience was a key consideration throughout the project. Although the site sits outside Calgary’s designated Flood Fringe zone, the building’s main floor is elevated above prescribed flood levels, with all vulnerable mechanical systems located on higher floors.

Below grade, durable, non-organic materials were used to ensure long-term performance without sacrificing aesthetics — a practical response to local environmental realities and one that supports the building’s longevity.

Passive Design, Real Performance

The building’s north–south orientation and placement close to the eastern setback allow sunlight to penetrate deeply into each unit. This passive solar strategy improves winter energy efficiency while providing abundant natural light year-round.

It’s a reminder that sustainable design doesn’t always require complexity — just smart decisions made early and carried through with care.

Our Role in the Build

Epic Commercial delivered the roofing, metal cladding, and siding for Carisbrooke Place. Our team worked closely with project partners to install exterior systems that support both the architectural intent and the building’s long-term performance goals.

We take pride in work like this — not because it seeks attention, but because it does what it’s meant to do: protect the building, perform reliably, and age well over time.

Why This Nomination Matters

ArchDaily’s Building of the Year Awards are entirely community-driven, shaped by votes from architects, designers, and readers across the globe. Being nominated places Carisbrooke Place — and Calgary — into a global conversation about thoughtful, responsible architecture.

It’s meaningful recognition for a project rooted in local context and real-world livability.

Support the Project

Voting for the 2026 ArchDaily Building of the Year Awards is now open and runs until February 10.

If you believe in community-focused design, resilient construction, and projects that quietly raise the bar, we encourage you to show your support.

Click the link below to vote before February 10 and help Carisbrooke Place represent Calgary on the world stage:

Carisbrooke Residence / DAAS – Design and Architecture Studio | Building of the Year 2026

Photography by Hayden Patullo