Capilano University marks milestone with opening of Treehouse student housing
Capilano University (CapU) officially opened Treehouse (Lam̓íwa / θqétəw̓txʷ), the university’s first on-campus student housing at its North Vancouver campus—marking a major milestone in student life and access to education.
The opening event featured remarks from Minister Bowinn Ma, MLA Susie Chant, Elders Carleen Thomas and Delhia Nahanee, President Jason Dewling, Mayor Mike Little and student Manroop Kaur. The program concluded with a ceremonial ribbon cutting and guided tour of the new residence.
The new six-storey, 8,250-square-metre residence will accommodate 360 students and includes a dining hall, study spaces, lounges and dedicated student support areas.
Designed to provide below-market housing in a region facing significant affordability challenges, Treehouse creates new opportunities for students to live closer to campus and fully participate in university life.
President Jason Dewling shared his gratitude to the many partners that helped bring the vision of Treehouse to life.
Lam̓íwa and θqétəw̓txʷ, both translating to “Treehouse,” were provided by the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and the səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation), respectively, reflecting a vision of “a home in the woods.”
“Home is more than a place. It’s the foundation where dreams take root, resilience is built, and futures begin,” said CapU President Jason Dewling. “When students have a place to belong, they have the power to become.”
The project was supported by the Province of British Columbia, which contributed $41.5 million toward the $58.2-million build, helping address one of the most significant barriers to post-secondary education: housing.
“Investments like this don’t just support students, they support the whole community on the North Shore,” said Minister Bowinn Ma. “By creating more on-campus housing, we’re easing pressure on the local rental market while supporting the next generation of leaders and innovators.” 
CapU student Manroop Kaur shared her experience as a student facing a long commute to campus.
The new residence responds to strong demand for student housing in the region, where many CapU students have historically faced long, daily commutes.
CapU kinesiology student Manroop Kaur shared her personal experience, describing how commuting up to three hours a day affected her academic performance, health and sense of connection. Moving into student housing transformed her experience, enabling her to succeed academically and fully engage in campus life.
“Treehouse means students can be closer to class, closer to community and better able to succeed. It’s not just a place to live, it’s a place where you belong,” she said.
The building is designed to support both learning and community, with shared kitchens, study areas, lounges and accessible spaces on every floor. It also features a café and 250-seat dining hall open to the broader community, strengthening connections between campus and the North Shore.
Built with mass timber and designed to exceed energy-efficiency standards, Treehouse targets LEED Gold equivalency, reflecting CapU’s commitment to sustainability and responsible growth.
Initial student move-in began May 30, marking the beginning of a new chapter in student life at CapU, with full occupancy expected in September 2026.
Submitted by: Communications & Government Relations