Averton has broken ground on two new purpose-built rental-housing projects in Edmonton and its bedroom community of St. Albert, Alta.

The projects will introduce a total of 120 townhomes designed with sustainability and modern living in mind.

Echo Rental Residences in St. Albert’s Midtown neighbourhood will feature 50 contemporary townhomes that prioritize energy efficiency. Leasing is expected to begin in summer 2025.

Meanwhile, Rowan Rental Residences in Edmonton’s Creekwood Chappelle neighbourhood will offer 70 Scandinavian-inspired townhomes, with leasing set for fall 2025.

“These projects demonstrate our commitment to address the growing demand for rental housing that fulfills the needs of so many individuals and families,” said Paul Lanni, president and CEO of Averton. “We are bringing a fresh perspective to rental housing—prioritizing design, long-term sustainability, and forward-thinking urban planning.”

Averton, which has developed communities across Canada for about six decades, has additional rental- housing projects planned in Alberta and Ontario. Between 2025 and 2027, the company expects to break ground on five more communities, adding about 1,000 rental townhomes and apartment units.

The new townhomes in the Alberta Capital Region will exceed provincial building code energy-efficiency requirements by more than 40%, reducing carbon footprints and lowering costs for residents, according to Averton. Looking ahead, Averton plans to incorporate geo-thermal heating and Rick Hansen Certification for enhanced accessibility into future developments.

“Our focus on purpose-built rentals aligns with our goal of delivering high-quality, sustainable housing solutions in key growth markets,” said Thomas Burr, senior vice-president at Averton.

“We see this as an opportunity to provide resilient, future-proofed housing options for our residents while delivering long-term value for our investment partners.”

Averton operates out of offices in Vaughan, Ont., and Edmonton. The company is seeking investment and development partners.

Pictured: Echo Rental Residences apartment project under construction in St. Albert, Alta.

Photo: Courtesy of Averton