Brenda Knights was raised by her grandmother. Through her, Brenda learned the value of intergenerational care, connection, and quiet resilience. Now, as CEO of the BC Indigenous Housing Society, she’s carrying those lessons forward.
The society's latest project, the Chief Leonard George Building, draws on those teachings. With intergenerational living and accessibility at its core, the building is a space for everyone.
Supporting families through proximity
The building is being designed with intergenerational living in mind. Families may live in separate units. However, being in the same building makes it easier for everyday support. This kind of closeness creates a deeper sense of connection across generations.
“In my community, I think about our elders and everything they’ve seen in their lifetime. I’m often amazed at how emotional they get when they see their grandbabies doing well. It’s a reminder of how much they’ve been through, and how deeply they want the next generation to have it better. Those are the teachings I try to bring into the urban environment,”
- Brenda Knights, BC Indigenous Housing Society
Aging in place
The building will also make it easier for elders and grandparents to age in place. This allows them to stay close to loved ones, without having to move as their mobility needs change. Wider hallways, accessible kitchens and bathrooms, and universal design features allow residents to stay independent and at home for as long as possible.
Aging in place allows Indigenous families to preserve cultural traditions and community connections. It also supports intergenerational knowledge sharing and strengthens Indigenous identity.
“When we have Elders in the building, we want them to be able to stay and age in place and not have to be displaced from their families. Universal design can allow a person to stay in their home for life."
- Brenda Knights, BC Indigenous Housing Society
Culture and connection
The Society is looking to bring in cultural programming for all residents. They hope to offer workshops such as cedar weaving and drumming. They also plan to invite Elders and knowledge keepers to share teachings and spend time with residents.
On-site will be a Head Start program which offers early childhood education with a strong cultural foundation. It’s a space where children can learn language, singing, and drumming. Elders are invited into the space to share their knowledge and stories as well.
As construction moves forward, Brenda sees her grandmother’s teachings taking shape. The building reflects the quiet strength and community spirit her grandmother embodied. It’s a place where all generations can grow, support one another, and feel a sense of belonging.
For more, listen to the Let’s Talk Housing podcast episode: From Grandmother to Granddaughter: A Story of Indigenous Intergenerational Living
Image Credit: 1. GBL Architects; 2. Seagate Mass Timber