Allowing Point Access Blocks with Single Staircase in North American Cities

Energy & Infrastructure
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Objective

To revise North American building codes to permit point access block (PAB) apartment buildings with a single staircase for buildings up to six stories. This change aims to increase the housing supply, especially family-sized apartments.

Background

  • Point Access Blocks (PABs): In many cities worldwide, compact “point access blocks” with a single staircase serve as an affordable, space-efficient housing model. By requiring two staircases for any building over two or three stories, North American cities limit the construction of PABs, which could otherwise provide diverse, accessible housing options.
  • Current Requirement: Most North American building codes mandate two staircases for buildings over three stories, based on historic fire safety concerns. While effective in the past, this approach may no longer be as crucial due to advancements in building materials, fire prevention, and safety technologies.

Policy Provisions

  1. Code Revision for Single Staircase Approval:
  • Permit buildings up to six stories to have a single staircase, contingent upon meeting enhanced fire safety measures.
  1. Design Flexibility for Housing Variety:
  • Encourage diverse floor plans that support family-sized units (two or more bedrooms), making efficient use of window placement and cross-ventilation.
  • Allow local municipalities to offer design flexibility to better meet housing demands in single-family neighborhoods and small urban lots.

Expected Benefits

  • Increased Housing Supply: Smaller buildings on small lots or existing parcels make it easier to add housing in dense urban or suburban areas without requiring large-scale land assemblies.
  • Family-Oriented Housing Options: Single staircase designs allow for larger multi-bedroom apartments, addressing the shortage of family-friendly units.
  • Environmental and Cost Efficiency: Smaller buildings with fewer staircases are more affordable to construct, ultimately contributing to housing affordability.

Conclusion

This policy reflects advancements in fire safety, building technology, and the evolving needs of North American cities for diverse and affordable housing options. By balancing safety with practicality, these revised standards can provide housing solutions that are modern, safe, and accessible, addressing today’s urgent housing demands.