The Alexander Residence is a 77,223 sq. ft. retirement home in Gravenhurst, Ontario. The project used innovative insulation solutions, including rigid continuous insulation and Amvic™ ICF for a 102-unit senior living development that includes 30 affordable units. Designed for speed and ease of installation, the lightweight materials are easy to handle while ensuring long-lasting performance.
The $19.5 million project used just over 36k sq. ft. of ICF and was completed within a 106-week construction schedule. ICF installation took 221 days. The build team worked through subzero temperatures, a zoning restriction that limited building height, and a cliff-edge site with no access on one side.
The Alexander Residence was recognized as the multi-family 2nd runner-up at the 2025 ICF Builder Awards.
Q&A
Q. What was the major benefit of using Amvic™ ICF over traditional construction methods?
A. “This building is designed for maximum energy efficiency with a highly insulated, airtight envelope and strategic site orientation to optimize solar gains. It features triple-glazed windows, natural ventilation, LED lighting, Energy Star appliances, and high-efficiency heat recovery ventilators (HRVs). As a result, average heating demand is just 2.56 kWh/m² per month over six months, while cooling demand remains low at 0.80 kWh/m² per month during the warmer months.
We were able to successfully reduce the initial project costs from $28M to $20M with the introduction of several value engineering efforts, one of which was the change from double wood framed walls to ICF construction, without compromising the overall scope of the project.”
Contractor/Owner Quote
“We manage our own contracting and chose the ICF brand after comparing costs, lead times, order turnaround, and the availability of accessories that streamline installation and meet project requirements. Amvic/Alleguard remains our preferred supplier due to their dependable technical support, efficient service, and timely deliveries.”
– Jon Morton, General Contractor
Alleguard Advantage
- Rigid continuous insulation
- Speed and ease of installation
- Energy-efficient and sustainable
- Lightweight, durable, and easy to handle
- Innovative insulation solutions
Project Overview
- Project Name
- The Alexander Residence
- Project Type
- Multi-Family Development
- Location
- Gravenhurst, Ontario
- Size
- 77,223.20 sq. f.
- Installer
- Greystone Construction
- Product(s) Used
- Amvic™ ICF