Starlight's North Vancouver Project Addresses Housing Needs, Infill Development Trend

NORTH VANCOUVER, BC – November 18, 2025

Addressing the Senior Housing Gap

Starlight Investments recently completed ‘The Lively,’ a 40-unit purpose-built rental community in North Vancouver, British Columbia, a project that goes beyond simply adding units to the market. Four of those units are dedicated to below-market rentals for seniors, a critical component born from a partnership with Hollyburn Community Services Society and the City of North Vancouver. This focus on vulnerable populations, particularly in a region facing escalating housing costs, underscores a growing trend in responsible real estate development.

“The need for affordable senior housing is immense, especially in high-demand areas like North Vancouver,” said one community advocate familiar with the project. “Initiatives like this, where developers collaborate with local organizations and municipalities, are vital to ensuring seniors can age in place with dignity.”

Hollyburn Community Services Society has a long history of providing support services to the North Shore community. Their involvement ensures these dedicated units are more than just affordable; they are integrated with support networks, promoting social connection and wellbeing for residents.

The project isn’t just about providing shelter; it's about fostering a community within a community, enabling seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life. This approach highlights a shift towards social impact investing, where financial returns are increasingly linked to positive social outcomes.

The Infill Development Trend: Building Up, Not Out

Located in a mature urban area of North Vancouver, ‘The Lively’ exemplifies the growing trend of infill development. Rather than expanding outwards into greenfield sites, developers are increasingly focusing on building within existing urban boundaries, revitalizing established neighborhoods and making efficient use of land. This approach offers several benefits, including reduced infrastructure costs, minimized environmental impact, and increased accessibility to amenities and transit.

“Infill development is crucial for creating sustainable and vibrant communities,” explained an urban planner with the City of North Vancouver. “It allows us to accommodate growth without sacrificing valuable green space or overburdening infrastructure.”

‘The Lively’s’ location, close to Victoria Park and Lonsdale Avenue, provides residents with easy access to shops, services, and public transportation. The project’s design also incorporates modern amenities, such as keyless entry, stainless steel appliances, and smart thermostats, appealing to a diverse range of tenants. The project is a strong example of how higher-density housing can be thoughtfully integrated into existing neighborhoods, enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.

However, infill development isn’t without its challenges. Zoning regulations, community opposition, and complex site constraints can all create hurdles for developers. The success of ‘The Lively’ demonstrates the importance of collaboration between developers, municipalities, and community stakeholders to overcome these obstacles.

Starlight’s Expansion & Canada’s Rental Market

‘The Lively’ is just one piece of Starlight Investments’ ambitious development pipeline, reflecting a broader trend in Canada’s rental market. With over 70,000 multi-residential suites and 7 million square feet of commercial space under management, Starlight is one of the leading players in the Canadian real estate landscape. The company’s commitment to purpose-built rental housing is particularly noteworthy, addressing a growing demand for rental accommodation across the country.

Starlight's pipeline of thousands of rental suites across Canada indicates a strategic response to shifting demographics and economic conditions. The company's recent merger of Western Canada funds and the commencement of the Harris Green Village project in Victoria further demonstrate their commitment to expansion and growth.

“The rental market in Canada is incredibly strong, particularly in major urban centers,” noted one financial analyst specializing in real estate investment trusts. “Demand continues to outstrip supply, driving up rental rates and pushing down vacancy rates.”

The pandemic further accelerated this trend, as many Canadians postponed homeownership and opted for the flexibility of rental living. Rising interest rates and affordability concerns have only reinforced this preference. As a result, developers like Starlight are well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for rental accommodation.

The company's emphasis on sustainability, with initiatives like advanced AI systems for energy management and pursuit of certifications like LEED and BOMA BEST, appeals to an increasingly environmentally conscious consumer base. This holistic approach – combining strategic growth with responsible development – positions Starlight for continued success in the evolving Canadian real estate market.