This thesis addresses the decaying and under-utilized space found within the laneways of downtown Brampton, Ontario. Through studies that examine the role and idea of the laneway an architectural language is derived that is used to inform strategies for materials, thresholds, structure and spatial form that respond to the laneway context. Within the building, a series of architectural interventions utilize the existing infrastructure allowing the buildings to integrate through structural and spatial interactions. These interactions create opportunities for programmatic activity to reclaim the existing under-used spaces for inhabitation as part of the new building. Programmatically, a brewery is used to promote social interaction while also introducing industrial practices to Diplock Lane. Additionally, through the laneway studies an urban strategy is derived that uses a series of interventions to create public space. This space facilitates social programming such as markets, cafes and festivals to reclaim Diplock Lane for the local inhabitants.

This thesis proposes an incremental response to the challenge of creating increased density within urban residential communities. Responding to the growing need for smaller urban dwellings, and the projected needs caused by future urban population growth, it suggests that infill housing on historic residential lanes and alleys could continue the tradition of small-scale, adaptive, and gradual change along these often-forgotten corridors of older North American cities, and specifically in Hamilton, Ontario. Incremental intensification through laneway housing represents a ground-oriented, modern, and unique housing typology with scale, texture, and ways of living that bring added diversity to the city. With a strategic approach, these houses can generate reinvestment in historic neighbourhoods without destroying the existing urban fabric. Planning reforms, economic realities, and design considerations are analyzed through literature reviews, case studies, and original field research on the laneways in Hamilton, Ontario. Application of the findings establishes incremental laneway housing as a viable catalyst for achieving urban renewal and increased densification in mid-sized North American cities.

This thesis proposes an incremental response to the challenge of creating increased density within urban residential communities. Responding to the growing need for smaller urban dwellings, and the projected needs caused by future urban population growth, it suggests that infill housing on historic residential lanes and alleys could continue the tradition of small-scale, adaptive, and gradual change along these often-forgotten corridors of older North American cities, and specifically in Hamilton, Ontario. Incremental intensification through laneway housing represents a ground-oriented, modern, and unique housing typology with scale, texture, and ways of living that bring added diversity to the city. With a strategic approach, these houses can generate reinvestment in historic neighbourhoods without destroying the existing urban fabric. Planning reforms, economic realities, and design considerations are analyzed through literature reviews, case studies, and original field research on the laneways in Hamilton, Ontario. Application of the findings establishes incremental laneway housing as a viable catalyst for achieving urban renewal and increased densification in mid-sized North American cities.