Case Study

Modular Innovation in Action: 150 Eighth Street, Etobicoke

The Canadian Helen Keller Centre (CHKC) has officially opened its brand-new six-storey apartment complex at 150 Eighth Street, Etobicoke — a landmark project that proves just how transformative modular construction can be.

This thoughtfully designed development has already begun reducing CHKC’s waitlist, giving more individuals with vision and hearing loss the independence of safe, affordable, and accessible housing.

56

Accessible Residential Units

6,500

Square Foot Training Facility

A Game-Changer for Accessible Housing in Ontario

The 56-unit building includes one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes along with shared amenities such as a rooftop garden. The project also introduced a 6,500-square-foot training facility where residents can build independent living skills in a supportive environment.

For Ontario’s housing sector, this build represents more than a milestone — it’s proof that affordable, barrier-free housing can be delivered faster and at higher quality through modular methods.

Across the country, these benefits are gaining recognition. As Construction Canada explores in The Impact of Modular Construction on Housing Accessibility, modular construction is emerging as a key solution to Canada’s dual challenges of affordability and accessibility.

Meet ANC

The project was brought to life by ANC Modular, one of Canada’s most forward-thinking builders. Established by Andrew Neill in 2017, ANC has rapidly built a reputation for innovation, collecting awards such as:

  • The Canadian Home Builders’ Association National Award for Housing Excellence – Modular Innovation
  • The Ontario Concrete Association Innovation Award for low-carbon concrete
  • Recognition on Offsite’s Top 15 Modular Companies list
  • Andrew Neill named one of On-Site Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40

Their ability to deliver a complex, accessibility-focused project like CHKC’s Etobicoke build demonstrates the game-changing potential of modular approaches.

Powered by Modular Construction

At the heart of this project’s speed and success is modular building. ANC Modular, a Canadian leader in off-site construction, is manufacturing the building components in a controlled environment before transporting them to site for rapid assembly.

  • Reduced Labour Requirements: Modular builds require fewer on-site workers, making it ideal in today’s skilled trade shortage.

  • Precision for Accessibility: Factory-controlled environments ensure tight tolerances and compliance with barrier-free design standards.

  • Timeline Optimization: Modules are built simultaneously with site preparation, cutting the overall schedule dramatically.

  • Minimal Neighbourhood Disruption: Less on-site construction means reduced noise, traffic, and waste.

ANC Modular

Click to Go Behind The Scenes at ANC

from the factory floor to a home of belonging.

ANC Modular

Supplying Modular Materials That Matter

Hewson Brothers Building Supply was proud to support this modular milestone by providing:

  • High-performance insulation and Sopraseal air barriers

  • Drywall and fire-rated assemblies for each unit

  • Efficient delivery coordination to match factory and site sequencing

  • Hands-on material advice for code-compliant, accessible construction

This project demonstrates how modular building isn’t just faster — it’s also smarter, more inclusive, and more adaptable to the needs of modern communities.

The Future Is Modular

With the CHKC development now complete, Etobicoke has a new model of affordable, inclusive housing that can inspire similar projects across Canada.

As Construction Canada underscores in their feature on modular accessibility, modular construction is not just a faster way to build — it’s a smarter way to deliver housing that communities urgently need. You can read their full article here: The Impact of Modular Construction on Housing Accessibility.

At Hewson Brothers, we’re proud to have been part of this milestone project and look forward to supporting more modular builds in the years ahead.

“Modular construction has proven it can deliver affordable, accessible housing without sacrificing quality. At Hewson Brothers, we’re proud to supply the materials and expertise that keep these projects moving — on time, on spec, and in step with what our communities need most.”

— Jason Church, Hewson Bros. Building Supply

Sources & Photos: www.ancgroup.ca/ & www.canada.constructconnect.com/dcn/news/projects/2024/11/affordable-housing-project-geared-towards-deafblind-breaks-ground-in-toronto

Planning a modular build? Let’s talk.

If you’re a modular builder looking for a trusted supply partner, Hewson Brothers Building Supply is ready to support you every step of the way. Let’s streamline your workflow, reduce costs, and help you meet tight project timelines with confidence.

Connect with an Account Manager

Modular construction is revolutionizing the building industry. At Hewson Brothers, we’re all in. Having an account manager on your side means we can guarantee product availability from top manufacturers and deliver it exactly when it fits into your production schedule. We’re here to keep your project moving without delays and without sacrificing quality. It’s all about working smarter and building partnerships based on knowledge, innovation, and above all else, open communication with our customers.”

Jason Church, Hewson Brothers Building Supply