Daniels Corporation Sets New Industry Standards for Inclusive Housing
The Daniels Corporation, a prominent developer and leader in creating inclusive communities across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), is making its Accessibility Designed Program (ADP) Technical Standards Guide publicly available for the first time. This marks a significant step forward in setting a new industry benchmark for accessibility in housing.
Launched in 2017, the ADP goes beyond the Ontario Building Code (OBC) by incorporating design elements that enhance livability for individuals using mobility aids, those with sensory impairments, as well as people with cognitive or intellectual disabilities. It also focuses on supporting individuals who wish to age in place. With this move, Daniels aims to inspire architects, developers, builders, and designers to adopt its comprehensive standards, encouraging widespread adoption of accessible housing features and setting new expectations for the industry.
“At Daniels, we believe that accessibility is not a luxury or an add-on feature—it’s a fundamental right,” said Jake Cohen, Chief Operating Officer at The Daniels Corporation. “By releasing these technical standards, we’re doing something that’s uncommon in the industry: sharing a resource that could have been seen as a competitive advantage. This decision reflects our dedication to the common good. Inclusivity is a collective responsibility, and real change occurs when the industry comes together. A collaborative approach is essential to creating a more accessible future for all.”
The ADP was developed to seamlessly integrate accessibility into Daniels’ core construction program, covering both individual suites and shared spaces. It was designed in collaboration with accessibility experts and shaped by the feedback of individuals with lived experiences, ensuring the homes are both functional and feasible to construct. The ADP Technical Standards Guide outlines a wide array of accessibility-oriented design features, including roll-in showers, height-adjusted countertops, braille signage, wider doorways, grab bars, and other aids that make spaces more accessible to all.
“Heidi Green, Co-Chair of the Accelerating Accessibility Coalition (AAC) and Director of Development at RioCan, commented, ‘Daniels’ decision to release their ADP Technical Standards represents a pivotal moment for accessible housing in Canada. By sharing this invaluable resource, Daniels is setting the bar for what accessible housing can and should be, while also empowering others in the industry to make meaningful changes toward more inclusive communities. This leadership and collaboration are essential to ensuring accessible housing is a fundamental part of Canada’s future.'”
The development of these comprehensive standards would not have been possible without contributions from key accessibility advocates and design experts.
“We are honored to have collaborated with The Daniels Corporation in bringing the Accessibility Designed Program Technical Standards to life,” said Laura Jones, Principal at HOK. “Inclusive design is at the heart of our philosophy, and these standards set a new benchmark for accessibility in housing. By making this knowledge available to the industry, Daniels is leading the charge in creating spaces that aren’t just functional, but also equitable, ensuring more people can thrive in the communities they call home.”
The release of the ADP Technical Standards Guide also aligns with the mission of the Accelerating Accessibility Coalition, where Daniels is a founding member. As part of the AAC, Daniels works alongside leaders from the real estate, civic, and educational sectors to advance accessible housing initiatives throughout Canada. With the guide now publicly available, industry professionals have a practical resource to help them implement meaningful changes. They can either adopt these standards directly or use them as a foundation to create their own accessibility solutions.
The Daniels Corporation’s efforts to enhance accessibility in housing extend far beyond the ADP. The company has a long history of creating vibrant, inclusive communities that support the diverse needs of residents. Known for innovative projects such as TIFF Lightbox in Toronto’s Entertainment District and the revitalization of the Regent Park neighborhood, Daniels has earned a reputation for creating spaces that blend building excellence with a focus on social, cultural, and economic well-being. Daniels’ commitment to fostering inclusivity is central to their mission of creating high-quality housing that enhances the quality of life for all residents.
About The Daniels Corporation
The Daniels Corporation is one of Canada’s leading builders and developers, with a track record of building nearly 40,000 homes across the Greater Toronto Area over the last 40 years. Notable projects include the TIFF Lightbox, located in Toronto’s Entertainment District, and the City of the Arts community on Toronto’s East Bayfront. Daniels has also worked closely with Toronto Community Housing to revitalize 53 of the 69-acre Regent Park community in Toronto. Regent Park is also home to the World Urban Pavilion, a collaborative initiative involving the Urban Economy Forum, UN Habitat, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, and Daniels. Beyond the physical structures it creates, Daniels is dedicated to ensuring the communities it builds foster opportunities for social, cultural, and economic well-being for residents. This commitment to inclusivity is central to Daniels’ mission and the foundation of its success.
