Located in Cambridge, Ontario, River District is a proposal for a transformative new community that blends timeless architectural character with forward-thinking urban design. Set along the Grand River, the development reimagines two underutilized city blocks as a dynamic, mixed-use district grounded in walkability, heritage continuity, and thoughtful density.

Spanning 12 buildings and ranging in scale from intimate low-rises to a landmark 35-storey tower, this long-term masterplan proposes 1,295 new residential units into the downtown core—each building contributing to a layered urban fabric that draws inspiration from early 20th-century warehouse architecture. Red brick, tall windows, and grounded proportions anchor the buildings in their context while introducing a vibrant and contemporary rhythm to the streetscape.

At the heart of the plan is a network of active laneways and mid-block connections that prioritize the pedestrian experience. Cafés spill onto brick-lined courtyards. Public art and plazas invite gathering and conversation. Ground-floor retail, generous sidewalks, and tree-lined boulevards establish a cohesive sense of place that is both intimate and connected.

Designed for everyday living and future growth, River District champions compact, complete communities that celebrate the character of Ontario’s post-industrial towns—while creating room for a more sustainable, inclusive, and animated urban future.