Reconnecting the City: The Vision Behind Richmond Yards

In the heart of the city, Richmond Yards is transforming an underutilized space into a vibrant, connected, and livable community. This ambitious redevelopment is about more than just buildings—it’s about stitching together neighborhoods, improving mobility, and creating welcoming public spaces that enhance urban life.

Breaking Down Barriers, Building Connections

One of the core ideas behind Richmond Yards was to restore connections across the site. Historically, this area was a fragmented superblock, limiting movement and accessibility. By introducing new pedestrian pathways, plazas, and mixed-use spaces, we’ve reimagined the site as an integral part of the city’s fabric.

Once fully realized, Richmond Yards will offer seamless connectivity from Robie Street to Gladstone Street, allowing people to move easily through laneways, public courtyards, and commercial spaces. A new staircase and elevator will further enhance accessibility, linking different levels of the site and integrating it into the surrounding streetscape.

A Transit and Cycling Hub

Transportation was a key driver of the project’s design. With two levels of underground parking, the development offers ample space for vehicles—but more importantly, it serves as a transition point to sustainable modes of transport.

• The project sits along one of the busiest transit corridors in the city (Robie-Ormond), making it a natural hub for bus and rapid transit.
• Extensive bike-friendly infrastructure includes protected lanes, indoor and outdoor bike storage, and even bicycle staircases, making cycling an attractive and practical choice.
• Partnerships with the city have allowed for the expropriation of land to support new bike lanes, reinforcing the commitment to active transportation.

Sunlight, Space, and Smart Urban Density

With a mix of low-rise and high-rise buildings, Richmond Yards balances density with livability. The 30-story tower on the north side casts shadows on parking areas rather than public spaces, while the lower, three-story buildings to the south maximize sunlight exposure. West-facing restaurants will benefit from natural light, creating inviting spaces for gathering and socializing.

Designed on a 20-foot grid, the buildings maximize efficiency while allowing for a diverse mix of housing types. The development includes:

• 776 residential units, providing homes for approximately 1,500 residents
•  A mix of studios, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom apartments
•  A focus on affordable and accessible housing, with funding support from CHC

This high-density urban model is inspired by European cities, where compact living is balanced by high-quality public spaces. Richmond Yards incorporates pocket parks, rooftop gardens, fitness facilities, and plazas, ensuring that residents have access to green space and community amenities.

Supporting Small Businesses and the Local Economy

Recognizing the importance of local businesses, the development integrates live-work units, offering small business owners a chance to live and operate in the same space. This approach helps entrepreneurs reduce overhead costs and fosters a dynamic, mixed-use community.

The public square will also serve as a community hub, hosting markets, events, and social gatherings. This focus on place-making ensures that Richmond Yards becomes more than just a residential complex—it’s a destination.

Honoring History and Community Memory

Richmond Yards is built on a site with deep historical significance. It acknowledges the displacement of communities in the area, particularly after the Halifax Explosion. To honor this history:

• The name Richmond Yards was chosen to reflect the area’s past.
• A large mural captures memories and stories of the North End, preserving the neighborhood’s narrative.
• The intricate building facade is inspired by textiles once produced by the Dominion Textile Company, which operated nearby.

By weaving historical references into the development, the project ensures that the past remains part of the evolving urban landscape.

Lessons from the Project: Collaboration and Long-Term Vision

Large-scale urban projects like Richmond Yards don’t happen overnight. Since 2018, this has been a collaborative effort between architects, developers, city planners, and the community. Westwood’s vision, Bird Construction’s expertise, and strong teamwork have made it possible to navigate the complexities of a project of this scale.

One of the biggest lessons? Balancing continuity with fresh perspectives. Over the years, multiple architects have worked on Richmond Yards, ensuring consistency while allowing new ideas to shape its evolution.

A Neighborhood Revitalized

Today, the impact of Richmond Yards is already visible. The once-empty streets are now alive with families, children, and businesses, adding diversity and vibrancy to the neighborhood. Unlike many developments that lead to rapid gentrification, this project remains relatively affordable and prioritizes rental housing, helping to maintain inclusivity.

Ultimately, Richmond Yards is more than just a development—it’s a renewed sense of place for a once-neglected part of the city. And as it continues to grow, it will serve as a model for thoughtful, community-oriented urban design.

To learn more about Richmond Yards and other Halifax development projects, contact Chris Perkins at chrisperkins@cbmaritime.ca or fill out the form below: