Windmill Developments: Building Forward with Purpose

Introduction

Windmill Developments sets out to transform the way we build and live. Founded in 2003 by Jonathan Westeinde and a team of like-minded thinkers, Windmill began with the ambition of disrupting the old order of real-estate development.

Their central mission is to deliver communities where humans and nature thrive in a mutually beneficial relationship. They align their work with the framework of One Planet Living; a holistic sustainability model composed of ten principles such as zero-carbon energy, materials and products, land and nature, and more.

Windmill’s focus is not just on building homes and buildings; it’s on creating regenerative communities, measurable social and ecological impacts, and real value for people and the planet.

A Legacy of Firsts and Innovation

From the very beginning, sustainability and innovation were built into Windmill’s DNA. Their first project, Dockside Green in Victoria, became Canada’s first LEED Platinum for Communities certification.

Over the years they have achieved a string of “firsts” in Canada, including the first LEED Platinum mixed-use building, innovative urban agriculture projects, geothermal systems, and retrofit models.

Today, Windmill is recognized as a leader in One Planet Living, working across Canada to deliver communities aligned with sustainability principles while creating social and ecological impact alongside financial return.

Design Philosophy and Approach

Windmill’s approach rests on four pillars:

• Thoughtful Design: Floor plans and building layouts shaped with families, neighbourhoods, and ecosystem fit in mind.
• Quality Construction: Attention to detail, craftsmanship, and materials that deliver durability and resilience.
• Lasting Sustainability: Sustainable systems, energy-efficient design, low-carbon materials, and integrated community systems.
• Lifestyle and Community: Projects integrate with local context, transit, nature, amenities, and human scale to elevate lifestyle and connectivity.

Windmill applies the One Planet Living framework to map, track, and report on social and ecological outcomes in every project. This ensures each development delivers more than just financial return.

Signature Projects

Here are a few standout Windmill Developments projects:

• The Baker District in Guelph – A sustainable mixed-use community in Guelph, focusing on modern living, walkable streets, and environmentally responsible design.
• Courcelette Condos in Scarborough – An urban infill project transforming a former gas station site into an 8-storey mixed-use boutique building, with high sustainability features and community integration.
• Stone Abbey in Ottawa – One of Windmill’s flagship projects funded through the One Planet Living Real Estate Fund, designed as a regenerative community with a focus on energy efficiency and ecological impact.

Why Choose Windmill Developments

• Proven leader in sustainable, regenerative real estate in Canada.
• Creates communities where nature, people, and infrastructure work together.
• Uses measurable frameworks for social and ecological impact, not just profit.
• Diverse portfolio includes urban infill and large community-scale developments.
• Builds homes and communities designed for long-term resilience and quality of life.

Conclusion

Windmill Developments stands apart in the real estate industry. Their mission, values, and track record show a builder that doesn’t just follow trends; they lead them. Choosing Windmill means selecting a home, investment, or community built with purpose, quality, and long-term vision. With Windmill, residents are part of a future-facing community where design, sustainability, and people matter.