Green Design
Lack of regulations and data hinder LCA progress
Selecting the lowest carbon-emitting products across a building’s material portfolio could reduce emissions by more than one-third, according to new global findings.
Creating longevity-ready communities
The global population of humans living to 100 and older is predicted to increase to nearly 3.7 million by 2050, but current institutions and policies are unprepared for this growing life expectancy.
Healthcare facilities launch nature-based programs
In healthcare facilities, where sterile aesthetics replace trees, plants and flowers, nature-based interventions can support the well-being of patients and staff who spend much of their time indoors.
Aquatic facility makes a splash in B.C.
The təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre in New Westminster, B.C., was named after the playful, curious nature of a sea otter, in turn, reflecting the kind of visitor experience the local community was hoping to create at the newly completed facility.
A mindful expansion at Sunnybrook
Amid the high-traffic frenzy of Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, which houses the busiest trauma facility in Canada, a new space brings peace and comfort to patients with brain and mental health needs, and the staff who care for them.
Plastic chemicals face growing scrutiny
The United Nations Environment Assembly adopted a resolution on March 2, 2022, to end plastic pollution by 2040.
Civic spaces rise to net-zero heights in Edmonton
Fire stations have evolved into a much broader sense of community as cities seek to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reach net-zero targets partially through design.
A first Passive House retrofit in Halifax
Once complete, it will serve as an inspiration for others pursuing deep retrofits of existing buildings, an endeavour that offers the most hope for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Halifax.
New standards for sustainable material use
A new set of standards defines minimum sustainability criteria for high-volume materials used in architecture and interior projects.
Reconciling through design at Centennial College
A look at the recently completed $112-million expansion project at Centennial College built on Indigenous values.
Archival preservation facility is a net-zero first
Library and Archives Canada’s new preservation storage facility opened as the first net-zero carbon archival centre in the Americas,
A recap of IFMA’s World Workplace
In the past, cleaning suppliers, landscapers, and pest control companies dominated FM shows. Not anymore.
Designing for patient dignity in Grande Prairie
Inside the 681,000-square-foot facility, people are able to experience the landscape and natural light, even throughout Alberta’s harsh weather extremes.
Designing the shopping experience of the future
New theories on retail centre on how experiences, convenience and a sense of community can draw people to a physical site.
Inside a Passive House first in Surrey, B.C.
Designing the Clayton Community Centre to become Passive House certified for ultra-low energy use was no easy feat, especially since the international standard had never been pursued for this type of facility in North America.
Greening your washroom for the good of the planet
Four tips for operating a more sustainable washroom in celebration of the International Day of Forests.
York Region piloting Passive House at new facility
A new men's emergency and transitional housing facility, set to rise in Aurora, Ontario, has opened the door to pilot-testing Passive House in York Region.