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Architecture, Building Envelope, Green Energy, HVAC, Ideas, LEED, Sustainability, Technology, Top Stories

On the cusp

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Ottawa’s Innovation Centre at Bayview Yards poised to take its place among top entrepreneurial hubs

Ingenuity and sustainable progressive thinking are talking points for Toronto’s MaRS Discovery District and Waterloo’s Communitech, but now they’ve got company.

Enter Ottawa’s Innovation Centre at Bayview Yards (ICBY).

The Innovation Centre, partnered with Ottawa-based Morley Hoppner Ltd. real estate development firm and Barry J. Hobin and Associates Architects, will be a dynamic and energized hub that serves as a basecamp for top-tier homegrown technology talent, capabilities and companies. It will be the ultimate one-stop business acceleration shop and ‘mash-up’ of technical, business and market services, resources and expertise that helps entrepreneurs and companies launch, grow and thrive – and compete with anyone in the world.

“We are extremely excited to be a part of the transformation of this heritage building into an entrepreneurial hub for new companies to emerge and grow in the Ottawa area,” says Brad Morley, President of Morley Hoppner. “


Set to open late in 2016, the Innovation Centre will sit on the site of an abandoned Ottawa garage, with 46,000 square feet of space, and will essentially combine many elements of the regional innovation ecosystem. Leveraging $30-million in public investment to date (including $15-million in funding and donated real estate from the City of Ottawa, and $15-million from the Government of Ontario), the Innovation Centre will be located within hundreds of feet of a Light Rail Transit (LRT) station.


ICBY will bring together many local innovation players that provide services and support to entrepreneurs. This includes anchor tenant Invest Ottawa, which will deliver its economic development programs from this new home, and work with many fellow academic, public and private sector partners at the facility. In collaboration with these organizations, the centre’s board is expected to provide the framework and foundations for the growth of local startups in varying states of development. ICBY will also serve as a regional epicenter for global sales, market development, expertise, investment and business development.


Moreover, ICBY will work together with leading program delivery partners such as Invest Ottawa’s Investment and Trade team, Carleton University, Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME) and prototypeD, to deliver targeted global programming that enables and accelerates the development and commercial success of globally-oriented, customer, market and investment-ready companies.  This is expected to create a wealth of opportunity for Innovation Centre clients, partners and investors.

Morley Hoppner’s involvement in a sustainable development such as ICBY corresponds seamlessly with the firm’s philosophy. Since its inception in 1988, Morley Hoppner has created a culture of sustainability, says Morley.

“From day one, we have recycled and composted at our office and are always looking for ways to recycle waste,” he says. “We have always worked to create environmentally-sustainable buildings regardless of LEED requirements. We are advocates for green building and sustainability and continuously promote this to our clients and partners.”

The ICBY project, he points out, includes a LEED Gold certification component. Other features include food growth, a green education program, sustainable transportation provisions, high-energy performance, innovative building automation and control system rooftop solar panels.

“We believe that utilizing more efficient systems which achieve long-term cost savings is important for all buildings,” says Morley. “Saying that, our approach is to be creative but practical, because obtaining LEED certification may not always be reasonable or financially possible given the location and type of the project proposed.

“In the case of the Innovation Centre, sustainability represented a fundamental part of its vision from the very beginning. We are proud to help realize this objective for our entrepreneurial community.”

Web / thebayviewyards.com / morleyhoppner.com

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The New Generation of Canadian Energy

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Simply Green aims to become Canada’s leading force in sustainability and efficiency by 2025

When it comes to helping Canadians reduce energy consumption, Simply Green Home Services Inc. adheres to the ‘out-with-the-old, in-with-the-new’ approach – in more ways than one.

So much so, predicts company CEO/President Lawrence Krimker, that Simply Green will become Canada’s leading force in environmental sustainability and energy reduction efforts by 2025.

“Simply green’s innovative approach has been built on the minds of the industries brightest,” Krimker says.

“It’s run by a creative and innovative team that represents the new generation of the industry.”

“Across the board, Simply Green looks to add efficiency into everyday Canadian life by reducing outdated and inefficient home energy appliances as well as providing transparency to homeowners around energy consumption with the goal of reducing usage.”

While a core focus of Simply Green’s business is offering rental water heaters to home builders, Simply Green has 4 divisions, over 150 sales reps across Canada, and helps across the energy lifecycle.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s available with Simply Green:

Simply Residential New Construction / SRNC supports Ontario homebuilders to procure high-efficiency hot-water tanks during the building phase. New homes start their life with top-of-the-line equipment and are supported by Simply Green’s hassle-free maintenance plans;

Simply Sub-metering / SSM helps new residential multi-unit building developers to install sub-meters per building unit to measure and bill the right amount of utility consumption per unit. Typically, buildings see a 25%+ utility consumption reduction by raising the awareness to tenants about their individual consumption.

Simply LED / SLED helps Canadian office and condo buildings to replace existing light fixtures with high-efficiency LED fixtures and bulbs. SLED helps building owners leverage government rebates and capital investment to secure 60-70% hydro consumption and typically appreciate a 1.0-1.5-year payback term;

Simply Green Home Services Inc / SGHS helps Canadians upgrade their out-dated HVAC units to high-efficiency units that run at 96 per cent efficiency. In addition, its water and air filtration systems help reduce household air-born and water toxins;

“We also have a nation-wide installation network, supplier network and warehousing in every major city in each province west of Ontario,” says Krimker, noting that the company has a 24/7/365 emergency line, along with a 40-person call centre (located in Toronto) that services all of Canada’s time zones. “Our retrofit business has allowed for us to develop a strong focus on customer service.”

Simply Green has solidified its impact on the industry by taking on large, established companies and providing cost-efficient, viable alternatives.

“We’ve built our business by going above and beyond what’s traditionally been offered,” Krimker says, providing a number of examples.
“A very common scenario is where we find that a gas fitter hired by a builder – a non-Simply Green worker – did not properly install the equipment that we provided. The customer is upset. Simply Green has then sent out its own gas fitter, at no cost to the builder or customer, to take care of the issues that the first gas fitter has created.”
“Another example is when a customer who, once again, experienced an improper installation by a non-Simply Green plumber. In that case, the customer was not getting any hot water. The customer called the builder and the builder called us. Again, at no cost, we dispatched our own plumber within an hour, to fix the issue for the customer.”

“In yet another case, where a site manager had ordered incorrect units, we made sure the builder did not have to wait for a new shipment. I had our team load up their personal cars with as much of the equipment as possible, and they drove to the site with the deliveries within two hours of receiving the initial call. The builder was in shock that we reacted so quickly to their mistake. And, again, we did not charge them for shipping back the incorrect equipment.”

Exceptional customer service notwithstanding, Simply Green takes an innovative approach to low-rise water heater rentals and high-rise sub-metering. Krimker says all Simply Green’s equipment has the highest level of energy efficiency.

“Our retrofit HVAC business is responsible for helping over 20,000 homeowners upgrade from mid-efficiency HVAC systems to brand new Energy Star-certified 96% efficient units,” he says. “This is, on average, an energy-efficiency improvement of 20-50% in their gas consumption. This has resulted in over 30,000 tons of CO2 being lifted from the environment.”

Simply Green is a recipient of a 2016 Great Places to Work Award, ranked 43rd in the medium-sized company category. Organizations selected are outperforming their peers; both financially and in terms of innovation, collaboration, and productivity. Great Place to Work® is the research firm that produces this list. Simply Green’s Charitable Division, Simply Cares, has helped raise over $300,000 in the past three years for the Covenant House Shelter, and its sales agents and customers also provide warm clothing for the homeless.

Web / mysimplygreen.com

Building Envelope, Green Energy, HVAC, Ideas, Style, Sustainability, Technology, Top Stories, Trends

Trendsetter in sustainability

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Sinclair Construction takes a collaborative stance to reinforce its reputation as an industry leader

Many builders talk the talk about sustainable strategies, but Sinclair Construction takes the discussion to a whole new level.

An early proponent of a more sustainable approach within the residential home building industry, Sinclair Construction actually reaches out to others, seeking a collaborative approach, which cements its status as an industry leader in LID (Low Impact Development).

“Sinclair Construction has embraced LID, energy efficiency and more sustainable housing,” says Dan Sinclair, Project Manager for the Kitchener-Waterloo-based company.

Family-owned, Sinclair Construction was founded by Warren Sinclair back in 1979. Its customer-centered approach, accented by a mark of excellence, reinforces its reputation as a builder that exceeds the standard and accentuates the details.

Sinclair Construction is known as a company that builds homes to last and believes that longevity starts with efficiency.

“We don’t just comply with the energy efficient Ontario building code – we surpass it,” says Sinclair. “And this means when you own a Sinclair Construction home, you enjoy reduced operating and maintenance costs and a smaller carbon footprint.”

Over the past 36 years, Sinclair Construction has built several communities and more than 300 family homes.

Its current project, The Enclave at Victoria Hills in the town of Ingersoll, is the most recent example of a synergistic LID endeavor. Working in conjunction with the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority, Sinclair Construction has incorporated extensive rain gardens as a means of achieving storm water management through the promotion of infiltration and evaporation.

In a nutshell, LID is a storm water management approach that uses Best Management Practices (BMP) – small, simple designs and landscape features at the lot level to infiltrate, filter, store and evaporate and detain runoff close to its source. (BMPs can be used in new development, urban retrofits and redevelopment projects, on lawns, streets, sidewalks, medians, roofs and in parking lots.)

“By eliminating more traditional methods for storm water management we were able to avoid costly underground infrastructure and the installation of a storm water management (SWM) pond, therefore gaining more land on which to build more units,” Sinclair says, noting that The Enclave at Victoria Hills is on a peaceful neighbourhood street, and features condominium bungalow and two-storey townhomes.

The process at The Enclave at Victoria Hills project began with the existing streetscape.

Originally, Sinclair says, the site drained towards a street, in this case Ingersoll Street. After the installation, the runoff drained to the perimeter, and then either clockwise or counter-clockwise around the edge. The runoff then moves through a series of bioswales and rain gardens, towards two large rain gardens along Ingersoll Street.

Water is retained in the rain gardens before infiltrating into the soil. A perforated drain moves storm water that has been filtered by plants and soil on to the next rain garden. At the two largest rain gardens along Ingersoll Street, any water in the underdrain will flow at a controlled rate into the municipal storm water system.

Sinclair Construction also looked to industry experts for energy efficiency input.

“We worked collaboratively with Bowser Technical Inc., and Priority Mechanical Services Ltd. to ensure all homes in our project are built to the Energy Star standard, at a minimum, with most achieving higher EnerGuide ratings,” he added, noting that an Energy Star new home is, on average, 20 per cent more energy efficient than a home built to code.
“Both organizations (Bowser Technical Inc., and Priority Mechanical Services Ltd.) have provided valuable knowledge in helping us to select features to achieve these ratings, such as higher insulation values, better windows and water heaters, right-sized HVAC systems and increased air-tightness results.”

“We are looking forward to continuing to position ourselves as an industry leader in LID through the adoption of more sustainable building methods and technologies and also pursuing net-zero goals in upcoming projects.”

Sinclair Construction has consistently set the bar for new home builds in southwestern Ontario, participating in the Ontario Power Authority’s NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION initiative, which is designed to encourage home builders and renovators to construct energy-efficient homes. Sixteen per cent of the homes built in Ontario that have taken advantage of this initiative were built by Sinclair Construction. The homes surpassed the building code using energy-efficient materials and techniques to meet EnerGuide standards. The homes are more energy-efficient from the beginning, reducing waste and providing future savings for the homeowner. Additionally, Sinclair Construction has been the recipient of a residential sector ERTH award, which recognizes businesses that are committed to sustainability.

Web / sinclairconstruction.ca

Architecture, Green Energy, Ideas, Style, Sustainability, Top Stories, Trends

On the cutting edge

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Derek Nicholson Incorporated has developed a stellar reputation working with some of Canada’s most innovative architects

 

The words ‘cutting edge’ come to mind whenever one thinks about the work done by Derek Nicholson Incorporated.

It’s easy to see why. As a specialized contracting and project management firm, the company has developed a reputation for producing finely-executed renovations and custom designed buildings for some of Canada’s most innovative architects.

“We also have the management structure to be cost-effective and efficient on our projects,” says company founder Derek Nicholson. “We definitely provide excellent value for money, as well.”
Grange
Founded in 2000, the Toronto-based firm has been involved in numerous projects that have received local and international awards and media attention, including four Governor General’s awards, which represent the greatest honour for architecture in Canada. Nicholson feels strongly that those distinctions are the result of dedication to excellent design, management and construction, plus credits the stellar group of architects and designers he collaborates with.

Derek Nicholson Incorporated prides itself in resolving and executing detailed projects of exceptional quality. Its team of skilled trades and craftspeople ensure that design integrity is realized from conception to completion.

The company’s office staff, Nicholson says, have degrees from architecture and interior design schools and have prior work experience at boutique architecture and design firms.

“Our qualified project managers are therefore able to collaborate with architects and designers to ensure that construction details are well-executed,” he says. “We work with the consultants and clients to ‘value engineer’ projects to meet budget requirements.

“As a result,” Nicholson says, “we have received widespread acclaim and are continuously referred to other clients by the consultants and clients of completed projects.”

Some of the innovative architecture and design firms Derek Nicholson Incorporated has worked with recently are superkül, William Chong Architects, Luc Bouliane, Teeple Architects and D’Arcy Jones Architecture. Teeple Architects, for example, is recognized for executing technically-advanced projects of exceptional quality that are conceptually and practically rooted in the specific needs and aspirations of each client. They say they are committed to responding creatively and effectively to each program, site, context and budget; inspired to find innovative and appropriate solutions for each new project.

Derek Nicholson Incorporated shares the same values. The firm provides crews that are capable of providing a wide variety of work – from the initial stages of demolition through to completion. Some of their expert in-house services include underpinning, waterproofing, poured concrete walls plus Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) and installation of structural steel and framing.

“And just a little while ago,” says Nicholson, “we opened a landscape section, completing a number of finely-designed and executed landscape projects.

“Because of our total integration, projects are seamless. Not relying on outside trades allows us to complete projects in a timely fashion.”


Next up for Derek Nicholson Incorporated is a segue into BONE structure construction, a system for assembling houses quickly, without any cutting or use of nails.

“We are now an authorized BONE structure builder,” says Nicholson. “We’ll be starting our first project right away. We’re excited – BONE structures are prefabricated steel structures that are energy efficient and create zero waste during erection compared to traditional wood framing methods. And wall and roof panels are spray foamed to achieve air-tight enclosures.”
Did we say ‘cutting edge?’

 

Web / dereknicholson.com

 

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AIA – Top Ten Plus

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Edith Green-Wendell Wyatt Federal Building Lauded with AIA Sustainable Design Award

GSA project highlighted as example of reducing operating costs, saving tax payer money and providing healthier work space for a federal agency

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and its Committee on the Environment (COTE) have selected the U.S. General Services Administration Region 10’s (GSA) Edith Green-Wendell Wyatt Federal Building in Portland, OR, as the recipient of the Top Ten Plus award. In its fourth year, the award recognizes one past AIA COTE Top Ten Project Award recipient which has quantifiable metrics demonstrating the true impact the sustainable design has achieved. The project, designed by SERA Architects and Cutler Anderson Architects, was selected in 2014 as a recipient of the AIA/COTE Top Ten Project Award program

Completed in 1974, the building received funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act in 2010 to undergo a major renovation and replace outdated equipment and systems. Under the Energy Independence & Security Act, the renovated building would have to meet or exceed stringent energy and water savings requirements. Working with Howard S. Wright Construction, the design team was able to deliver the project 10 months early, saving taxpayers more than $900,000 in the process.

“We were tasked with converting an aging energy hog into one of GSA’s highest-performing buildings,” said Don Eggleston, AIA, principal at SERA Architects.

From an initial building analysis, it was determined that for seismic safety, the precast concrete exterior would need to be removed. Energy studies led to a number of solutions, including a blast-resistant glass curtain wall, exterior shading and reflective elements and a highly-efficient hydronic heating and cooling system inside.


“These creative design solutions not only reduced utility costs, but also freed up more than 30,000 square feet of rentable space that enabled a much greater ROI for the GSA’s investment in this property,” Eggleston added.

Building performance metrics determined by post-occupancy evaluations:

  • Renovated building uses 55% less energy than the original structure
  • Harvested rainwater and water-conserving plumbing fixtures resulted in a 65% reduction in water use
  • By maintaining a central location downtown, an estimated 85% percent of occupants are not reliant on single-occupancy vehicles for transportation
  • The radiant heating and cooling system resulted in a projected lifecycle cost reduction of $2 million compared to traditional Variable Air Volume Air Systems
  • The building boasts an occupant satisfaction rating of 75%


“We’re proud that this GSA cornerstone building is one of the most efficient office buildings in the country,” said Kimberly Gray, GSA Director of Facilities Management Division. “Our tenants regularly give us feedback about how they enjoy all of the building features, especially the increased exposure to daylight throughout.”

COTE Jury comments: “This project transforms a generic concrete office building into a high-performance, environmentally responsive, comfortable place to work. This sets a great precedent for re-use and upgrade, and demonstrates the potential for creative, green re-use projects.”

 

Architecture, Ideas, Style, Sustainability, Technology, Top Stories

The American Institute of Architects Select the 2016 COTE Top Ten Green Projects

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Projects showcase excellence in ecological design principles and reduced energy consumption

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and its Committee on the Environment (COTE) have selected the top ten examples of sustainable architecture and ecological design projects that protect and enhance the environment. The projects will be honored at the 2016 AIA Convention in Philadelphia.

The COTE Top Ten Awards program, now in its 20th year, is the profession’s most rigorous recognition program for sustainable design excellence. The program celebrates projects that are the result of a thoroughly integrated approach to architecture, natural systems and technology.

By conducting an in-depth study of nearly 200 COTE Top Ten Award winning projects encompassing almost 20 years in the recently released report, Lessons from the Leading Edge, it was determined that design projects recognized through this program are outpacing the industry by virtually every standard of performance.

Biosciences Research Building (BRB); Galway, Ireland
Payette and Reddy Architecture + Urbanism 

The design of the BRB embraces the moderate climate of Ireland. By locating low-load spaces along the perimeter of the building, the project is able to take advantage of natural ventilation as the sole conditioning strategy for the majority of the year and is supplemented less than 10% of the year with radiant heating. Due to this approach, 45% of this intensive research building is able to function without mechanical ventilation. This is an extremely simple, yet radical approach and is rarely implemented.

Center for Sustainable Landscapes (CSL); Pittsburgh
The Design Alliance Architects

The CSL is an education, research and administration facility at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Designed to be the greenest building in the world, it generates all of its own energy and treats all storm and sanitary water captured on-site. The CSL is the first and only building to meet four of the highest green certifications: the Living Building Challenge, LEED Platinum, WELL Building Platinum, and Four-Stars Sustainable SITES. As an integral part of the Phipps visitor experience, the CSL focuses attention on the important intersection between the built and natural environments, demonstrating that human and environmental health are inextricably connected.

Exploratorium at Pier 15; San Francisco
EHDD

The Exploratorium is an interactive science museum that also demonstrates innovation and sustainability in its design and construction. The building takes advantage of the historic pier shed’s natural lighting and the 800-foot-long roof provided room for a 1.3 megawatt photovoltaic array. The water of the bay is used for cooling and heating. Materials were used that are both sustainable and durable enough to withstand a harsh maritime climate. The project is certified LEED Platinum and is close to reaching its goal of being the country’s largest Net Zero energy museum and an industry model for what is possible in contemporary museums.

H-E-B at Mueller; Austin, TX
Lake|Flato Architects, H-E-B Design + Construction, Selser Schaefer Architects

H-E-B at Mueller is an 83,587-square-foot LEED Gold and Austin Energy Green Building 4-Stars retail store and fresh food market, including a pharmacy, café, community meeting room, outdoor gathering spaces, and fuel station. It serves 16 neighborhoods and is located in Mueller, a sustainable, mixed-use urban Austin community. Strategies include a collaborative research, goal-setting and design process; integrated chilled water HVAC and refrigeration systems; the first North American supermarket propane refrigeration system; optimized daylighting; 169 kW roof-top solar array; electric vehicle charging; all LED lighting; and reclaimed water use for landscape irrigation, toilets, and cooling tower make-up water.

Jacobs Institute for Design Innovation; Berkeley, CA
Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects

Founded on the conviction that design can help address some of society’s most pressing challenges, the Jacobs Institute for Design Innovation at UC Berkeley is devoted to introducing sustainable design innovation at the core of university life. The project provides a new interdisciplinary hub for students and teachers from across the university who work at the intersection of design and technology. It is designed as both a collaborative, project-based educational space and a symbol to the region of the University’s commitment to sustainable innovation, modelling high-density / low-carbon living and learning by reducing energy use 90% below national baseline.

Rene Cazenave Apartments; San Francisco
Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects and Saida + Sullivan Design Partners, Associated Architect

This supportive housing for formerly chronically homeless individuals replaces a former parking lot and freeway off-ramp with a high density, transit oriented, and healthy living alternative. Filtered ventilation, low emitting materials, ample daylight and views combine to aid the residents, many with mental and physical disabilities. Energy costs for the residents and non-profit owner are minimized by a combination of high efficiency lighting and hydronic heating, a continuously insulated rain-screen building envelope and a roof top solar canopy with both hot water and photovoltaic panels. Water is carefully managed by a vegetated roof, smart irrigation, a courtyard storm water tank and reclaimed water piping.


The Dixon Water Foundation Josey Pavilion; Decatur, TX
Lake|Flato Architects

The Josey Pavilion is a multi-functional education and meeting center that supports the mission of the Dixon Water Foundation to promote healthy watersheds through sustainable land management. Traditionally livestock has caused more harm than good by overgrazing and not allowing native prairies to play their important role in habitat and watershed protection, and carbon sequestration. As a certified Living Building, the Josey Pavilion facilitates a deeper understanding of how grazing livestock as well as the built environment can work to do more good than harm. Just like the Heritage Live Oak that defines the site, the building tempers the climate and enhances visitor experience by shading the sun, blocking the wind, and providing protected views.

The J. Craig Venter Institute; San Diego
ZGF Architects LLP

This not-for-profit research institute, dedicated to the advancement of the science of genomics, was in need of a permanent West Coast home. Their commitment to environmental stewardship led to challenging the architects to design a net-zero energy laboratory building, the first in the U.S. The result is a LEED-Platinum certified, 44,607-square-foot building comprised of a wet laboratory wing and an office / dry laboratory wing surrounding a central courtyard, all above a partially below-grade parking structure for 112 cars. The holistic approach to the design revolved around energy performance, water conservation, and sustainable materials.


University of Wyoming – Visual Arts Facility; Laramie, WY
Hacker Architects and Malone Belton Able PC

The Visual Arts Facility (VAF) consolidates the fine arts program from its scattered locations throughout the campus. The building provides a teaching and learning environment that is both state-of-the-art in occupational safety and in its concern for discharge of pollutants from building. The roof area is fitted with one of the largest solar evacuated tube installations in the U.S. Heat flows from the evacuated tubes to support the hydronic radiant floors, domestic hot water, and pretreat outside air for ventilation. The building was oriented and shaped through a process of studying the sun’s interaction with interior spaces, simultaneously distributing reflected light while eliminating solar gain.


West Branch of the Berkeley Public Library; Berkeley, CA
Harley Ellis Devereaux

The new 9,500-square-foot West Branch of the Berkeley Public Library is the first certified Living Building Challenge zero net energy public library in California. The building’s energy footprint was minimized through integrated strategies for daylighting (the building is 97% daylit), natural ventilation and a high performance building envelope. An innovative wind chimney provides cross-ventilation while protecting the library interior from street noise. Renewable energy on site includes photovoltaic panels and solar thermal panels for radiant heating and cooling and domestic hot water. The library exceeds the 2030 Challenge and complies with Berkeley’s recently-enacted Climate Action Plan.

About The American Institute of Architects
Founded in 1857, the American Institute of Architects consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through nearly 300 state and local chapters, the AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public wellbeing. Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards. The AIA provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business as well as engaging civic and government leaders and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation and world. Visit www.aia.org.

Ideas, Style, Sustainability, Technology, Top Stories, Trends

Leading the way

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Accolades for Arista Homes for its green building practices  

NATURAL RESOURCES CANADA ENERGYSTAR NEW HOMEBUILDER OF THE YEAR

Being true to its company philosophy is reaping ongoing benefits for Arista Homes Limited.

Founded more than 20 years ago by Michael DeGasperis, the Vaughan-based

Homebuilder of more than 9,000 quality homes across the GTA and Southern Ontario has long been recognized as an industry leader in both innovation and technical excellence – and that’s a key part of its Mission Statement. “While building upon a Life-Friendly TM corporate philosophy, we will encourage the development of our exceptional people to build exceptional homes and communities and deliver a product to our clients that we would be proud to own.” The entire Arista Homes team is motivated by this Mission Statement. Arista’s dedication and commitment to always improving and building the best possible home, alongside being environmentally conscientious, has not gone unnoticed. In fact, Arista Homes was recently recognized as the 2015 Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) Energy Star New Homebuilder of the Year. Receiving this prestigious National Award is certainly a proud accomplishment!

“We take great pride in receiving this nationally recognized award,” says Michael DeGasperis, Arista’s President and C.E.O. “We remain committed to collaborating with suppliers, trades and each of our dedicated employees to ensure we continue building a product for our valued clients that we would all be proud to own ourselves.”

For more than two decades, Arista Homes has embraced green building initiatives and remains determined and dedicated to doing so in the years ahead. The continued implementation of green initiatives, panelized construction practices, recycling programs, and improved construction processes all contribute to a better-built home, which ultimately leads to a more environmentally friendly home and an even more satisfied homebuyer.

The National Energy Star award provides significant acknowledgment of Arista’s efforts and is a direct result of the company promoting the Energy Star brand along with other worthy green building initiatives. Most importantly, there’s no doubt that Arista has embraced a corporate philosophy that is predicated upon building the best possible homes and a strong desire to be environmentally conscious.

“I am proud to live and work in one of the world’s greatest countries,” says DeGasperis. “I take great pride in being entrusted by our homeowners to, in essence, make their dreams come true. This is a significant responsibility that I do not take lightly. Not only

does it motivate me daily, but I derive great satisfaction in future generations aspiring to make an Arista home their own.”

Arista Homes is not satisfied in simply meeting today’s homebuyer expectations; rather the Arista mandate is to exceed these expectations whenever possible.

The utilization of panelized wood construction practices has become the norm in all Arista communities. Arista has embraced the technologies and industry-leading advancements provided by forward thinking companies such as Panelized Building Solutions (PBS) and Tamarack. These companies are at the forefront of providing homebuilders with engineered, factory-built and locally co-ordinated wood panelized products. The expertise provided by their respective design teams has allowed Arista to implement effective on-site strategies that have had a significant impact in not only reducing the carbon footprint left behind, but also a positive effect on Arista’s ability to build a better home.

With several panelized Arista communities now complete, Arista has found that the overall cost effectiveness associated with panelized wood construction along with the many immediate benefits associated with this superior construction method, both immediate and long-term, far outweigh those of conventional house construction.

The immediate benefits of panelization are undeniable and can be measured to include the following:

 Built the right way, the same way every time.

 Save time – 37% faster than conventional stick frame construction = greater economies and efficiencies

 Produces a superior quality finished product.

 Cleaner and safer workplace, virtually no waste material

 Reduces required on-site labour force required for clean-up.

 Reduced WSIB costs.

 A near 50% savings on typical waste-bin costs.

 Virtually eliminates equipment required to clean up sites.

 Cost certainty – as one all-inclusive price is provided.

 Panels are built in a controlled heated environment to exact dimensions.

 Fixed delivery dates.

 Less weather related delays – helps you stay on schedule and on budget.

 Floor and wall assembly systems are tailored to individual builder/client needs and specifications.

 Installed with cranes, thus significantly reducing on-site labour.

 Saves space on site for material staging areas.

Arista’s clients have been quick to recognize this effort. Arista’s V.P of Sales and Marketing, Franco Crispino states: “This exceptional green-friendly initiative can only be described as a huge success.”

Beyond panelized construction, Arista continues to implement many other technologies and advancements into each of their homes. Their current mandate, is to ensure that all new Arista communities are Energy Star-compliant and to build upon their many successes in the green building environment.

Each Arista Energy Star-built home incorporates individual energy-efficient home components and building materials. Such practices effectively contribute to an approximately 25% more energy efficient home when compared to the current building code – much to the delight of each Arista homebuyer. Each home not only exceeds the current standards but ultimately saves the homeowners money as well. In addition, Arista also adheres to neighbourhood friendly on-site environmental protection measures by providing homeowners an introduction to solar-ready conduits and the integration of future energy-saving technologies and water conservation initiatives (e.g. low-flow faucets, high-efficiency flush toilets). Furthermore, improved indoor air quality is achieved with the introduction of environmentally-friendly building materials as well as Heat Recovery Ventilation Systems (HRV’s) as well as several other construction details that are geared towards a more air-tight home.

As far as community development goes, neighbourhood street patterns and designs are given careful consideration in order to create pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and neighbourhood –friendly green spaces. Wherever possible, Arista promotes transit hubs, easy access to public spaces and recreational facilities – anything that can limit the

use of automobiles and make life easier and more satisfying for homeowners. This also includes Live/Work communities. To top it all off, water conservation mandates and policies, proper storm water management, tree preservation, rain barrels and homeowner education are commonplace in many Arista Homes community. Arista cares and it shows.

For more than 20 years Arista has strived to be the industry leader and to assist the building community whenever possible. Part of that means being committed to providing leadership, input and time required to assist in educating clients, trade partners, fellow builders, policy makers and to ensure that the consumer gets the best home possible. Moreover, Arista aims to do this in a responsible manner that will provide both immediate benefits today and ultimately for future generations as well.

Collectively, the Arista Homes initiatives have all contributed significantly to not only building a better home, but also has enhanced the company’s ability to rise above its competition.

“It’s been an incredible 20 plus years,” says Michael DeGasperis. “We have the privilege of working in the most exciting of industries. The rewards can be satisfying, but there is no room for complacency. As this industry evolves, and the market conditions shift, our homebuyers’ needs and wants change. Therefore, we need to adapt quickly and lead by example – it is the only option.” “What this means,” says DeGasperis, “is that the Arista mandate is to be a leader and not a follower – always staying ahead of the crowd.”

Web / aristahomes.com

‘For Arista Homes’ new ‘Impressions of Kleinburg’ community, a designated Energy Star room was created to educate prospective buyers. Actual wall cross-sections depicting an Arista-built Energy Star wall system versus a typical Ontario Building Code wall system is on display, as is an HRV system, high-efficiency furnace, drain pipe recovery system, Energy Star window and necessary teaching aids; all geared towards educating the public and promoting the immediate and long-term benefits of owning an Arista-built Energy Star home.



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Sustainable sentiments

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Digram Developments and DiGreen Homes hold environmental impact in high regard

It may seem like a small thing, but the fact of the matter is that the example speaks volumes about the kind of sustainable strategies practised by Digram Developments Inc.

Along with its building division, DiGreen Homes, Digram pays particular attention to any environmental impact for each and every one of its projects.

According to company president Abubakar Masood, Digram definitely understands the impact land development has on the environment, and they always make a conscious effort to lessen any detrimental effects.

“In a project in Caledon,” Masood says, “our firm built a number of large bird enclosures for endangered species to help maintain the surrounding ecosystem.”

Then, citing another, more dramatic, example, Masood says Digram actually stopped development of one of its projects in Greensborough, in Markham, because it was negatively affecting nesting birds.

“That project was at least 50 acres,” he says. “But we prefer trees over cash-in-lieu (referring to the inevitable displacement of trees during the land development process.).”

That kind of mentality ties in to the focus of DiGreen Homes, which caters to the needs of its current homebuyers and to future purchasers. More and more people, Masood says, are looking for smarter homes with eco-friendly features, such as energy-saving thermostats that can be accessed remotely. And DiGreen Homes stands fully behind its clientele’s changing, progressive tastes.


The Masood family is a third-generation homebuilder with 10 years experience in land development. The family, with over 30 years in the construction, planning and development industries, started out in Dubai, but expanded to Canada in 2002.

Digram Developments Inc. was formed in 2006 as a means for the family to branch out on its own. Not satisfied with being halfway involved in the full home building process – that is, only servicing the land for other, external homebuilders – the family felt it was appropriate to grow its expertise in the construction industry.

Its home builder firm, DiGreen Homes, started in 2014. It was deemed important for the family to be present both at the start and completion of a project, from raw land to finished product, Masood says.

What Digram and DiGreen Homes end up with is far from some of the cookie-cutter products offered by others in the industry, he says. They aim for a unique outcome, something that gives customers bang for their buck, and a distinct source of pride.

While still maintaining work ties to Dubai, the Canadian operation has grown by leaps and bounds. Based in Markham, the two firms work mostly in the GTA. Digram does the site servicing, including installing water mains, asphalt works, sidewalks and curbs, while DiGreen builds the houses and connects with the services.

Masood is extremely cognizant of changing trends in the industry, noting that today’s buyers want their homes to be connected, to be smart. And they’re willing to spend more to get that “cool factor.”

Current projects that both family firms have been involved with include:

• Santaguida Residences, at Donald Cousens Parkway and Delray Drive in Markham (nine single family detached lots, 3,100-3,400 square foot on 45-foot lots) with a completion date set for the summer of 2016;

• The 16th and Williamson Project, at 16th Avenue and Williamson Road in Markham (42 townhouse condo units) with a completion date set for the end of 2017;

• And Swan Park, in Markham (about 10 units), Caledon (about 70 units), Brampton (about 200 units), with current land development projects in Vaughn (close to 400 units) and Oakville and Caledon.

Looking ahead, Masood says he’s focused on getting significant amounts of land, but stresses that both DiGreen and Digram plan to continue building and developing houses.

His goal is to become one of the leaders in homebuilding, providing high-quality homes and adapting to the latest marketplace trends.

 

Web / digreenhomes.ca / digram.ca