2026 Training House Becomes the Y Dream Home

🏠 2026 Training House Becomes the Y Dream Home

The Canadian Home Builders’ Association Central Interior (CHBA CI) is proud to announce that the 2026 Training House has officially been handed over to YMCA BC and is now the 2026 Y Dream Home.

This year’s build brought together 64 Thompson Rivers University (TRU) trades students, who gained valuable, hands-on experience working alongside industry professionals to construct a high-performance home. Students from carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC programs all played a role—building skills that will carry forward into the workforce.

The project was made possible through the support of 82 industry sponsors, whose contributions—materials, products, expertise, and funding—continue to make this program possible year after year.

The 2026 home was led by Project Manager Paul Douglas of Malcolm Homes, a graduate of the Training House program—highlighting the full-circle impact of investing in the next generation of skilled trades.

A High-Performance Home

The 2026 Y Dream Home is a strong example of what modern, energy-efficient construction can achieve—demonstrating practical application of Step Code and Net Zero Ready building in a real-world project.

• Built to Step Code 4 and Net Zero Ready
• Achieved 0.69 ACH on the final blower door test
• High-performance building envelope
• 3.6 kW solar PV system
• Dual fuel mechanical system: heat pump with Navien combi boiler and air handler
• Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) supporting indoor air quality and efficiency

These features contribute to lower energy use, improved comfort, and long-term performance.

Designed for Living

Beyond performance, the home is designed to reflect current market expectations and livability:

• 3 bed, 3 bath | 3,235 sq. ft. 
• Open-concept living with architectural detail
• Chef-inspired kitchen with custom cabinetry and quartz countertops
• Spa-inspired primary suite
• Fully finished lower level with recreation space and wet bar

A Proven Model of Partnership

The Training House program represents a long-standing and successful collaboration between CHBA Central Interior, TRU, and YMCA BC:

• 36 years of partnership with TRU Trades and Technology
• 30 years of the YMCA Dream Home Lottery
• Over 60 students involved in this year’s build

The program provides students with real-world experience on an active job site, working alongside industry professionals and using current building practices and technologies.

Community Impact

Once complete, the home becomes the grand prize for the Y Dream Home Lottery, with proceeds supporting YMCA BC programs and services across the region.

At the same time, CHBA Central Interior continues to invest in workforce development—supporting trades training, industry readiness, and long-term capacity in residential construction.

🎟 Buy your tickets here
📸 View photos of the Dream Home
🎥 Watch the 2026 Y Dream Home video
🎉 Celebrate 30 years of the Dream Home