All posts by Giulio

Architecture, Style, Sustainability, Technology, Top Stories, Trends

MINTO COMMUNITIES

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Minto: After 60 years in Canada, it’s not a coincidence. It’s a plan.

 

What does it take to win the coveted title of Ontario Home Builders Association (OHBA) Builder of the Year twice in three years? Try innovation, ingenuity and community engagement. With a company-wide commitment to all three, it’s no surprise Minto is about wrap its most successful year yet.

For the second time since 2012, the OHBA awarded Minto the Builder of the Year award, recognizing outstanding professionalism and integrity within the business, industry and community. The result of a culmination of an incredible run of success for the family-owned business, the award also recognizes outstanding green innovation leadership.

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With record-breaking sales and an ever-expanding portfolio of leading edge green communities, Minto is proving that a focus on sustainability is fundamental to building a better business.

“We want to change the way that people think about building communities. We want to deliver products that the customer can depend on, that are more sustainable, and have great value. A record-breaking year of sales, and the honour of being named OHBA Builder of the Year, tells us that we’re on the right path,” says Daniel Bélanger, Senior Vice President, GTA.

In a year full of noteworthy high-rise and low-rise projects, the highlights begin with the unprecedented launch of Minto Longbranch. With over 330 sales and 8,000 registrants in less than one year, Longbranch is the most successful debut in the company’s history. The numbers are a testament to Minto’s decision to re-introduce affordability along Toronto’s iconic Lakeshore West in the Long Branch neighbourhood.

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In North Oshawa, Minto Kingmeadow was singled out as the Community of the Year by The Durham Region Home Builders Association, and new releases were ramped up to keep pace with surging demand. Minto Orchard Park was another notable success, selling 262 homes in less than one year.

But success can be measured by more than just sales. To date, Minto has qualified over 2,600 low rise homes under the ENERGY STAR® standard. Following a commitment in 2005 to build high rise homes to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) standards, Minto built the largest LEED for Homes Silver community in Canada. In 2009, Minto built the largest LEED Gold certified condo in North America, raising the bar for subsequent developments.

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“Building high quality and more sustainable communities is at the heart of what we do,” says Dave Stewart, President of Minto Communities, Canada.

In 2014, Minto775 was the first building to meet the Tier 2 requirements of the Toronto Green Standard, a voluntary certification designed to help reduce the environmental impact of buildings in the City by reducing energy consumption and light pollution, improving storm water management, and improving waste diversion during construction. Some of the standout features in the residential project include rainwater harvesting bird friendly glazing, high energy and water efficiency, and heat recovery systems that bring fresh clean air directly in to suites.

Sustainability touches every element of Minto’s corporate culture, from reducing operational energy consumption, to having as many “green” elements as possible in the communities that it builds. Based in Ottawa, Minto’s corporate headquarters at 180 Kent became the building with the single most LEED certifications in Canada this year – thanks to work with commercial tenants to certify their own spaces. The 20-storey commercial building was also the first and largest LEED® Platinum Core and Shell office tower in Canada.

Entering the gleaming office tower, a luscious green wall in the public atrium hints to the building’s sustainable design, and is paired with a green roof and electric vehicle charging stations. But some of the most impressive features are hidden from view, for example, a regenerative elevator harnesses energy from its own momentum to pump back into the power grid and rainwater harvested from the roof is used to flush toilets on the buildings’ top four floors.

And the company holds itself accountable: Minto’s annual sustainability reports are made publically available. In a rare and progressive corporate initiative, environmental performance is a significant element of annual executive compensation.

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“We’re constantly striving to improve by introducing new ideas to make the next project even better than the last,” says Brent Strachan, Senior Vice President, Ottawa. “For the past 60 years our focus has been on creating value for our customers through delivering well built, energy efficient homes in thoughtfully designed communities. That vision becomes more vivid with every project that we build. It represents our past and present and it is our enduring goal for the future.”

From land acquisition to building occupancy, sustainability is the first and last thought in every building that Minto brings to market. As part of employee development, junior as well as senior employees are encouraged to become LEED accredited professionals.

Minto’s leadership in construction has not gone unnoticed; previously, Minto won the OHBA Green Builder of the Year award in 2008, 2010 and 2011 after continuously delivering environmentally friendly building designs, leading-edge waste management strategies, a strong internal culture and support of the sustainable building industry. In 2012 the criteria for the Green Builder of the Year award were incorporated into the Home Builder of the Year award, with Minto being awarded the prestigious title in that year.

“It all starts with a simple question. What can we do to design a product that will have mass appeal, but still emphasizes quality, still emphasizes the environment and still puts the purchasers and communities first,” says Amanda Wilson Watkins, Vice President of Marketing and Sales.

This reputation for sustainable building is why Minto was selected to build five zero energy homes as part of Natural Resource Canada’s ecoENERGY Innovation Initiative (ecoEII). By building leading-edge homes Minto aims to explore ways to bring affordable zero-energy homes to the market, reflecting the company’s boundary-pushing approach to sustainable building.

“We are constantly thinking about what’s next: what we’ll be doing three, five, and ten years from now to progress the future of green building,” says Alison Minato, VP of Sustainability.

Looking towards the future, Minato says Minto is turning its attention beyond the physical building structure, to developing communities that are more walkable, that integrate park space, that allow parking for bikes, and that are nearby to transit.

“If you want to be successful in steering your corporate culture towards a focus on sustainability, it’s important to understand and accept that it’s a balancing act. You can’t change everything all at once,” says Minato. “Figure out what you can do, and innovate on that.”

The year ahead looks bright for Minto with no signs of slowing down. Anticipated launches across the GTA include Minto Westside, arriving at the corner of Toronto’s Front and Bathurst, and Minto Queen’s Landing, a new community that will make its home in the lush countryside of accessible East Gwillimbury. The recent launch of Minto Yorkville Park, in Toronto’s prestigious Yorkville neighbourhood, saw phenomenal sales of its opening release, illustrating the remarkable project demand. The boutique 25-storey condominium tower builds on Minto’s impressive legacy in Yorkville and is set to become Minto’s fifteenth LEED project.

About the Minto Group:

The Minto Group is a family-owned, fully integrated real estate development, construction and management company with operations in Ottawa, Toronto, Calgary and South Florida.

The Minto Group has built more than 70,000 new homes, manages more than 17,000 residential rental homes and apartments, and carries a commercial portfolio of more than 2.5 million square feet of office, retail and industrial space.

In addition to these holdings, the company owns and operates Canada’s largest portfolio of executive furnished suites

For more information visit www.minto.com.

Architecture, Green Energy, HVAC, Style, Sustainability, Technology, Top Stories, Trends

Energy efficiency on steroids

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Silverado Custom Homes takes on state-of-the-art project in Toronto’s Lawrence Park

By Greg McMillan

With a touch of secrecy and intrigue, Silverado Custom Homes is undertaking an ambitious project that should place it in rarified territory in the Canadian green building industry.

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As Jeff Silverberg, President and Founder of Silverado Custom Homes Corp., likes to say about the home in Toronto’s Lawrence Park area: “It’s energy efficiency on steroids.

“It will have state-of-art energy features far beyond the norm in our industry in Canada,” he says. “Silverado and its team of professionals are at the leading edge in design and construction of highly energy-efficient custom homes in Canada and this project will further attest to that.”

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As one of the top custom builders in Toronto, Silverado has overseen the construction of over 1,000 homes in the most prestigious areas of the GTA, says Silverberg, and is in a unique position to meet the high expectations of discriminating clients.

And, while preferring not to divulge the identity of the client involved in the Lawrence Park project, he says Silverado will streamline the process and ensure a satisfying and stress-free experience for all involved.
Silverberg says that Silverado helps the client through the entire design/build home construction process – from designing the perfect home to adding finishing touches, providing all the services required.

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He says Silverado works side by side with trusted contractors to ensure that all aspects of the custom home work can be completed to the highest standards and specifications; often assigning a consultant to be involved with the design/build process to ensure all necessary criteria are met.

The Lawrence Park client, Silverberg says, has chosen to take advantage of many of the latest green building details available in the marketplace today.

The list of basic energy features is long, and definitely comprehensive:

  • ICF (insulated concrete form) basement to the roof structure as well as an ICF pool.
  • Hydronic heating throughout building with separate programmable zoning in each room.
  • Hydronic heating on all exterior walkways, driveway and dog path along the side of the house.
  • Insuldeck structural insulated flooring throughout the building. (This is a structural slab that is fully insulated for sound attenuation and the elimination of boxing because everything is sleeved through the floor).
  • Geothermal heating and cooling for the house, as well as the pool.
  • Custom thermal glazing and top-of-the-line low-E (low-emissivity) glass for all windows.
  • Composite custom slate roof.
  • LED lighting throughout building.
  • Super quiet and super energy efficient HVAC systems.

Moreover, Silverberg describes the house design as a custom French chateau with smooth cut limestone on all interior walls. He says the home will be fully automated with savant (luxury smart home technology) automation.
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“Everything from home security, to HVAC and lighting controls, as well as drapery controls will be fully automated,” says Silverberg, whose awards include Best Townhouse Design from The Toronto Home Builders’ Association (BILD) as well as Best Model Home Design from The Ontario Home Builders’ Association.

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“With utility costs soaring these days, energy efficiency is very important,” he adds. “This house, with its state-of-the-art designs and efficiencies, is part of the wave of the future in the building industry in Canada.”

Web:
http://www.silveradocustomhomes.com/

As the leading design/build contractor in Toronto, Silverado Custom Homes will work with clients to find the right lot for their home, create a budget and timeline for their project and provide them with access to homebuilding professionals who will make their dream home a reality. Silverado works side by side with trusted contractors to ensure that all aspects of their new custom homes are completed to the highest standards and specifications. Silverado has worked on many custom home projects, including creating Energy Star certified homes which are built to be energy efficient.
Additionally, Silverado Financial, one of Canada’s leading home rebate services, can help clients get an HST rebate of up to $24,000. Silverado Financial is an expert at assisting homeowners obtain HST rebates for new homes and homes undergoing substantial renovations. These rebates are available to clients directly from the government. Silverado Financial is owned and operated by a chartered accountant and a building professional. Together, they have over 50 years of combined expertise, knowledge and experience that will help clients receive the maximum HST rebates they are entitled to.

Ideas

Q&A: Crystal ball gazing for 2015

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Leading expert at Canada Green Building Council talks about what to expect in the year ahead

by Greg McMillan

As we head into a new year, Green Building & Sustainable Strategies (GBSS) magazine decided take a look at what the future might hold for the green building industry.
Someone with his finger on the pulse of change is Mark Hutchinson, the director of green building programs at the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC).
He participated in a Q&A interview with GBSS magazine, taking us through everything from green building products to green building certification to predominant energy technologies.
When you look back over 2014, what would you consider as some of the notable green building developments in Canada?

In 2014 the 5,000th LEED project was registered in Canada, and I am very happy to see how the Canadian market has been adopting green building practices. We also saw the first comprehensive Canadian study of green building growth, drivers, obstacles, and impact on tenants and occupants, with the release of a Canada green building trends study conducted in conjunction with McGraw Hill Construction.

The CaGBC launched Alternative Compliance Paths (ACPs) and other tools for the newest version of LEED, version 4. We also provided education on different aspects of the new rating system. I feel the Canadian market is now better positioned and prepared to take the next step towards transforming how we design, build, and operate our homes and buildings.
In 2015, what do you see transpiring for builders and their desire to seek LEED certification for buildings?

Our McGraw Hill Construction study points to continued growth of the green building movement in 2015, and our expectation is that interest in LEED certification will continue to be strong. There is strong recognition of the value of LEED certification as a tool to provide accountability, transparency, and better outcomes. On October 29 we announced that the current set of LEED rating systems would continue to be open for registration until October 31, 2016, and I expect that 2015 will be a transition year, as the market continues to learn about LEED v4 and the very first teams begin to apply it to their projects.

Do you predict there will be an influx of alternate green building certification programs that will begin to take hold in 2015? If so, please describe. If not, why not?

The Canadian marketplace has used LEED as a common language and assessment tool for green building practices, and indeed LEED is an international platform that allows us to collaborate in moving the industry forward in over 150 countries. I think the Canadian market is prepared to welcome other rating systems so long as they help push market transformation forward in a meaningful way. By this I mean they establish credible and meaningful objectives, and are supported by a rigorous third party evaluation process. Programs like the Living Building Challenge and Passive House are examples of such programs.

What are some of the green building products you foresee becoming used more prevalently in the coming year?

It will take time, but manufacturers are preparing for LEED v4 and we will see an increasing number of products with health product declarations (HPDs), environmental product declarations (EPDs), and certification to programs like Cradle to Cradle and GreenScreen. We spend 90 per cent of our time indoors, surrounded by materials we have created, and it is very exciting to see the transformation that is taking place.

What energy technologies do you see becoming more prevalent within the building industry (for example: solar, wind, geothermal, etcetera) and why, during the next 12 months?

On-site solar is popular and more economical than ever, although its impact on a building’s energy footprint will vary as a function of the configuration of the building. It’s certainly a very visible hallmark of sustainability. Geothermal has been adopted by a segment of the green building industry, and has many merits.

What are some of the general green building trends that you see developing, or growing, in the year ahead?

In the new construction field, people continue to strive towards significantly reduced energy consumption. As they aim for even lower energy consumption, the building envelope and the integrated design process are becoming of greater importance.

Materials and wellness are also now front and centre. The launch of the WELL building standard (which is designed to operate alongside LEED, and looks at a space’s effect on human health)

is a sign of just how much the impact of buildings on the health, productivity and happiness of occupants is being recognized.

Is there anything you can see putting a damper on the current growth of green building practices in Canada? If so, please describe. If not, please say why.

Green building is becoming more and more accepted, and the knowledge, tools and products needed are increasing every day. There are so many reasons to build greener buildings. It’s hard to see this trend reversing. I think the questions are really:
1) What will be the pace of market transformation?

2) What aspects of green building will be emphasized? For example, energy will always be key, but materials and wellness are also increasingly important.

3) To what extent will leadership recognition programs like LEED drive the market, as opposed to building codes, greater code enforcement, education around codes, mandatory benchmarking, and other efforts aimed at raising the bar of building practice?

Mark Hutchinson

Mark Hutchinson has worked with the Canada Green Building Council for the last six years. As Director of Green Building Programs, he oversees the strategic direction and operation of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) building certification program in Canada. He participates on the LEED International Roundtable and collaborates with the LEED Canada Steering Committee as well as the USGBC’s LEED Steering Committee.

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

A fine line along the cutting edge

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Centra Homes incorporates green features that blend newest techniques with consumer demands

Centra Homes may be a relatively “young” company, but its president has already learned a very valuable lesson – never settle for the status quo.
“With each project we build, we are seeking to implement newer and more effective green building strategies,” says Paul Lorusso, President of Centra Homes, with head offices in Toronto. “The green building industry is always on the cutting edge of green initiatives, however some of these initiatives may not have been adopted, or accepted yet, by the home-buying market.

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“Our goal is to implement the newest initiatives available while still maintaining a sense of what our customers are seeking in a new home.”
With over 500 homes built to its credit, Centra Homes also tries to utilize a blend of contemporary design and materials, while maintaining an old-world craftsmanship. The company, which operated earlier under the banners of Braidwood Homes and Green Hill Homes, has keyed on creating communities, such as the now-open Mills Collection in Richmond Hill, the coming-soon Village Square Condominiums in Oakville and Royal York Shores in Etobicoke.
The Mills Collection, for example, features detached surrounded by an established executive community, close to Richmond Hill’s amenities. That way, the company says, homeowners can enjoy the best of life, with schools, shopping, entertainment, libraries and community centres – all within easy reach.

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So The Mills Collection combines the best of two worlds – exciting new home designs located in the heart of an established, vibrant urban town.

On the cutting edge of design, some of the features offered include:

  • Poured concrete basement walls with drainage membrane for a water-tight finish and proper drainage.
  • Maintenance-free vinyl casement windows throughout.
  • 200 AMP electrical service.
  • High efficiency forced air gas furnace with electric ignition and HRV unit.

The TARION Warranty Program covers all homes as follows:

  • Seven (7) year warranty for major structural defects.
  • Two (2) year warranty for defects in workmanship and materials on electrical, plumbing, heating and building envelope.
  • One (1) year warranty for defects in workmanship and materials.

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And all their low rise homes are currently Energy Star rated – which is the mark of high-efficiency products in Canada, says Lorusso.

“We also take the extra steps to install equipment in our homes for rain water harvesting,” he says. “This will permit our homeowners to reduce water consumption for outdoor use, which is especially important in the first year of a new home when frequent watering is needed for freshly laid sod.”

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Furthermore, he says, Centra Homes takes an extra step by providing accessibility for future solar panel installation.

“We encourage our buyers to take advantage of this feature, once they take possession of their home,” he adds.
Web:
http://centra-homes.ca

Centra Homes and its affiliate Centra Developments are multi-disciplinary companies with expertise in land development, new home construction, condominium construction, and commercial development. Centra Homes and its principals have been in the residential home building industry since 1985. Their communities and projects are at the forefront of design, functionality, and locations most coveted by today’s most discerning new home buyer. With over 500 homes completed by its principals to date, Centra strives to implement a high level of customer service and personal devotion to each home they build.

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

Making waves

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Waterfront Toronto gaining international attention for green building, sustainable strategies

By Greg McMillan

While it’s likely a given that the main buzz about green building and sustainable strategies has only been picking up speed in the past couple of years, many of the heart-and-soul initiatives have been steadily growing for much longer than that.

One has to look no further than Toronto – Waterfront Toronto, to be more specific – to notice that. 

Back in 2001, three levels of government – municipal, provincial and federal – contributed seed money of $1.5-billion to see to it that the waterfront of Canada’s largest city would be subject to strategic revitalization and sustainable development.

And, according to Lisa Prime, the current Director of Environment & Innovation for Waterfront Toronto, the original vision is true to its mandate today, with constant attention being paid to transforming the area into a “marvelous public destination with vibrant public and cultural spaces capable of providing a variety of experiences and amenities.”

Gushed a public relations missive: “Four times the size of Monaco, the now $4.4-billion, 1,977-acre, 40,000-residence Toronto waterfront revitalization project is in full gear, and is poised to position the city and province of Ontario as world leaders in creating sustainable communities, with buildings and neighbourhoods that aim to be among the greenest on the planet.”

The word is spreading. At the world’s largest conference and expo dedicated to green building – Greenbuild 2014, held in New Orleans – it was obvious to those in attendance that the Toronto area has caught the eye of international investors and business people.

Sean Dyke, Chair of the Ontario Clean Technology Alliance, said he talked to companies that already had customers in the province and were very interested in the possibility of expanding their businesses in Ontario.

“In New Orleans, we heard repeatedly that Ontario is a strong market for the green building sector, and that the Toronto market, in particular, with its penchant for contemporary design and style, along with an environmental conscience, is one that most companies are eyeing,” he explains.

That’s good news for Prime. She likes to hear stories about how Toronto and its green waterfront initiatives are separated from the pack.

“By employing the best global practices and made-in-Toronto solutions, the city’s new waterfront communities will protect and enhance our natural environment,” she says. “Ultimately, we’ll be given further recognition as global models for innovation and sustainability.”

She says the organization has developed a number of strategies to achieve those objectives (most which utilize metrics to allow for accurate tracking of performance), including:

The Sustainability Framework (2005).

The Minimum Green Building Requirements (MGBRs).

Corporate Social Responsibility & Sustainability Report (CSRSR).

The Carbon Tool.

Smart and innovative infrastructure.

Ultra-broadband technology.

“Most recently, the release of our CSRSR as a microsite in 2013 allowed us to share transparent reporting on 21 core performance measures that cut across each of the pillars of sustainability – environmental, social and economic.

That also means that beyond requiring energy efficient buildings, she says, all new waterfront neighbourhoods are being designed and built to promote green and healthy living and the conservation of the environment and natural resources.

At the same time, she says Waterfront Toronto is continuing to innovate in community design and look for opportunities for sustainability. And she pointed to some upcoming green projects as examples. 

“For buildings I would point to our parks and our pavilions, which are small but innovative,” she adds. “In Corktown Common we have an open air pavillion, which features year-round use including a fireplace and movable walls as well as solar panels.

“Sherbourne Common includes LEED Gold certification and a unique UV treatment process integrated into it for the park art and stormwater feature. 

“Our parks in general include a full example of incorporating sustainable practice for water, lighting, natural landscape and multiple social recreational opportunities. “

“Then look at our green building partners – Urban Capital, Great Gulf and Tridel – all of which have great progressive building designs.” 

In a nutshell, it’s onwards and upwards for Waterfront Toronto, says Prime.

“We continually engage our new community, so I think you will continue to see the results realized in future work.”

Web
www.waterfrontoronto.ca

Architecture, Ideas, Style, Sustainability, Technology, Trends

A little bit of this, a little bit of that

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Multi-use building in Jakarta combines need for green space with higher density development

The developer of a site in Jakarta, Indonesia was confronted with a quandary.

Wijaya Karya, of Benhil Property, wanted to design a building that would combine Jakarta’s need for green space with higher density development. On top of that, respect had to be given to the area’s current urban fabric.

Not an easy task, any way you look at it. But Karya, on behalf of owner banker/printer Peruri, persevered, bringing in architectural teams from the United States and the Netherlands to work hand in hand on the project.

The result has been called Peruri 88, and it’s to be situated on a block formerly used as the government mint right next to a future metro station. Plans for the landmark project were put together by MVRDV, a Rotterdam, Netherlands-based architecture and urban design practice, in conjunction with the Jerde Partnership, a U.S.visionary architecture and urban planning firm.

The mixed-use project features a wide variety of options for usage, from large offices to living/working units. There are lofts, there are townhouses and they range from terraced houses to patio living.

Each of these examples are stacked urban blocks with a semi-public rooftop park, an abundance of gardens, playgrounds, spas, gyms, outdoor restaurants and swimming pools. In short, a little bit of everything, to be enjoyed by both residents and office employees.

Partway up the 400-metre tall building, a luxury hotel takes over, and on top, at the 88th floor, there will be a panoramic restaurant and viewing platform.

A commercial area that extends to the 7th floor has both retail and shopping sections connected by a series of escalators. This podium also reflects Jakarta’s historic island with reflective bodies of water and landscape leading to the public street levels, while integrating a garden plaza.

About MVRDV

MVRDV was founded in 1993 by Winy Maas, Jacob van Rijs and Nathalie de Vries in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. The practice engages globally in providing solutions to contemporary architectural and urban issues. A highly collaborative, research-based design method involves clients, stakeholders and experts from a wide range of fields from early on in the creative process. The results are exemplary, outspoken projects, which enable our cities and landscapes to develop towards a better future.

Architecture, Building Envelope, Ideas, Style, Technology, Trends

STUDIO CACHOUA TORRES CAMILLETTI

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Should all skyscrapers have the same language? Should they always be cladded in glass?

Studio CACHOUA TORRES CAMILLETTI started out by trying to envision what a skyscraper should be in the future era, by letting go of many ingrained preconceptions about the way tall terraces have an important semiotic and symbolic significance in culture in countries such as China, and they are spawn by the need to sow seeds vertically. In addition to the formal beauty inherent to these terraces, they are a source of plastic inspiration and a living example of the respectful change of nature by humans, who do not pose any environmental aggression, and are both respectful of nature and of a man. Studio CACHOUA TORRES CAMILLETTI finds such richness of the meanings and interactions that it was decided that rice should be the crop of choice for the Skyscraper.

After defining the program, the team proceeded to search for the ideal spatial scheme for the building. After experimenting with several options, they reached a final scheme that included two towers.  This choice was made due to three main reasons.

The first reason is a poetic one. The towers embody in a way, a battle that represents Hong Kong, a battle between the historical and cultural pride of a city that has passed through time, and it’s many contemporary architectural languages that do not necessarily belong to it’s culture and that are not from concepts rooted within the city.

Secondly, and in a more pragmatic motivation, was the realization that multiple use towers are now commonplace, but they ignore in their morphology the individual character of each use.  Therefore, why not go back and question this ingrained assumption? Why shouldn’t the building have an unique character for each of the uses it houses, or better yet, give each use a different form? The team wanted the building to be able to show in the exterior it’s mixed-use character. Thusly they split the two towers in their uses.  The larger tower is for commercial use with offices, retail, entertainment, etc., and the thinner tower is for residential use.  This way it can actually be seen where the living spaces are, and where the commercial and production happens and each can have its own character pertaining their use.

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The last reason has to do with the shape itself. We wanted a design with sculptural characteristics that were not arbitrary, and had a full connection to the whole concept. So, we designed a scheme in which the building flows from the base, in a metaphorical sense it would be like the building protruded from the ground in a tectonic way, and following this conception it split in two to form a canyon.  The team at Studio CACHOUA TORRES CAMILLETTI was inspired by the idea of natural rock canyons, and found poetry in their contours and in the way that they generate their duality, a male and a female shape, which could be joined together.  The two resulting towers create in between them a protected gorge of lush and fertile gardens. The tower bodies are scattered with “rice terraces”, which grow atop their bouldering shapes.

The choice of form, although it is a creative process, and in a way artistic, it generally must take in to account the conditions dictated by the environment, such as predominant winds, sun orientation, views, structural design, interior function, and only then can it allow for artistic expression.

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Even while Studio CACHOUA TORRES CAMILLETTI decided that the final scheme would be comprised of two separate towers, the project continues to be a unit that works holistically, and in actuality, it is a single structural system that supports and joins both bodies together. They compensate and stabilize each other’s mass by the means of braces, trusses and bridges, to work effectively as a single building.

In terms of function, the architects believe that building design should seek the improvement of the experience of the user, and, vertical transportation is one of the most dreaded experiences in high rise towers. That is why the residential building works as several small residential buildings stacked on top of each other, each with a lobby that is accessed by a transparent bridge from the larger commercial tower and reached by a dedicated high speed lift, separated from the ones that serve the commercial tower. In this way the amount of elevator shafts and time spent in them is greatly reduced, and the experience of living in such a high scale tower is brought down to a smaller more approachable residential size. Each residential tower segment is then a relatively small apartment complex with fewer neighbors, making it possible to create a sense of community between them in such a big building.

 

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Regarding the energy requirements for such a tower, the team at Studio CACHOUA TORRES CAMILLETTI believes that the building they are proposing could be entirely powered by renewable energy but at this time it might not be economically feasible.  They believe that in order for this or any other sustainable building to become a reality, it has to be economically viable.  The first alternative that was studied for this purpose was geothermal energy, but given the building’s position, the depth of the water table, and the depht at which the target temperatures could be reached in Victoria Harbor, it turned out to be too expensive a proposal. Solar energy is still not efficient enough to power the whole building; it would require much more surface than the whole surface of the tower’s façade.  Wind would not be an option for the whole building since there is no space for large wind turbines.

Fuel cells are still utterly expensive and hydrogen power plants just offset the production of hydrogen to other carbon producing processes such as steam methane reformation that uses natural gas. There is no point in using dirty energy to make clean energy.

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The architects then turned to nuclear energy, in which they are firm believers, but not necessary in the way it is today, an aging technology, but in the safer and more compact ways that companies such as Mitsubishi and Toshiba are proposing. So, in this sense, this building is betting on the future generation of nuclear reactors such as those defined as 4S (Super Safe, Small and Simple), which are more economically feasible and have the capacity to power the entire structure. They would in a way become a “bridge” technology that would offset the carbon footprint of fossil fuel based power plants, until the time the renewable power technologies are able to fully power a building such as this.

Architecture, Green Energy, Ideas, Style, Sustainability, Technology, Trends

The ultimate in luxury

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Man-made floating Orsos Island combines the mobility of a yacht with the comfort of a mainland home

By GREG McMILLAN
It’s not a stretch to admit that, at one time or another, probably everyone has had a daydream about being the owner of a private island somewhere in a far-flung exotic locale.

More often than not, though, that dream quickly fades when various costs and logistics are factored in.

But there are other options available for those with the cash flow, not the least of which is the availability of a floating man-made island combining the natural experience and mobility of a yacht with the comfort of a mainland home.

Called Orsos Islands, the concept has been developed by an Austrian group to provide a luxurious living space that can travel anywhere in the w


And that’s an alluring mix, says chief architect/engineer Csikós Mihály, of Csikós Terv Architect Ltd.

“This project is a transition between a building and a ship,” Mihály tells Green Building and Sustainable Strategies magazine. “On the one hand it has the habitable comfort and aesthetic of a building and on the other hand the dangers and inconvenience arising during shipping can be avoided. It is placed on the water surface and, because of the proximity to water, it implies the feeling of relaxation and holiday.”

Tired of one location? Owners could simply weigh anchor and move their “island” elsewhere. And although there are none currently completed, Mihály says the project is well underway.

“The permit procedure is in progress right now,” he says. “The European-Chinese co-operative company, ORSOS Island Asia Ltd., is dealing with the further development of this project, and all production will probably be done in China.”

So, what, exactly, would future owners be getting with an Orsos Island?
orsos_071_010


For starters, each 37-metre-long vessel unit would have room for six bedrooms, complemented over the 1,000-square-metre living space by minibar, dining room, aquarium, barbecue, Jacuzzi, games room and, of course, sun loungers.

Not to be overlooked are the sustainable features, which are many … and varied.

From an energy standpoint, an Orsos Island would be environmentally friendly, powered by 160 square metres of solar panels, as well as wind generators that would produce more than enough power for a the daily consumption of a family household, according to Mihály, who was responsible for the interior and exterior design.

In addition, energy generated by the craft could power both air-conditioning and heating systems. The “island” has been outfitted with its own desalination system, as well, capable of converting saltwater into suitable drinking water.

Monitoring the advanced energy management process would be a “smart” computer network. This feature also makes sure a regular power supply would be maintained.

No sustainable design, however, would be complete without attention to waste disposal and plant use. And that’s the case with the Orsos Island, as Mihály points out that every level conveys a “nature” feel, with the utilization of diverse plants and a special irrigation system. Garbage is collected, he says, in a chilled depot, then compressed, and stored in an odour-free manner, which could be removed at any time.

Compared to a real island or oversized gigayacht – with price tags often over $1-billion – an Orsos Island seems to be an absolutely bargain basement option at less than $7-million.

Still, getting beyond the design stage has been slow, although Mihály is encouraged that the company is currently in production preparation.

“It has to do with the permit process,” he adds. “The facility classification is a new concept. The Corsos Island is more than a houseboat, but less than a ship.

“Furthermore, there are specials rules regarding its properties and placement procedure. According to various permits, it could be placed only close to shore or in bays due to its height, plus any movement is only allowed using tugboats.”
While ironing out the approval wrinkles, Mihály is confident the original vision of Hungarian entrepreneur Orsós Gábor remains on track – an affordable “green” luxury living option for the mega-rich who want to try something different.
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BRE Innovation Park at The Living City Campus – a showcase for innovation in urban sustainability

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By Glenn MacMillan

Set among protected forests, fields, rivers and wetlands, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority’s (TRCA) The Living City Campus at Kortright is a centre of excellence for urban sustainability, a hub for learning, research, demonstration, and inspiration. Its unique natural setting acts as a reminder of the importance of harmony between human behaviour, technology, and nature. The Living City Campus allows visitors of all ages and backgrounds to experience sustainability solutions through real-world demonstrations. These demonstrations include permeable pavement demonstration and test sites, soil management best practice test plots, photovoltaic performance verification and wind turbine test sites, and the Power Trip Trail, a walking trail showcasing renewable energy options along its route. Perhaps the most high profile demonstration to-date is the Archetype Sustainable House, which celebrated its fifth anniversary this year. Acting as a ‘Living Laboratory”, the house showcases the best and latest sustainable building practices and technologies, and has been the focus of research for several Masters theses and PhD dissertations. The Living City Campus is also part of the Canadian ETV Program, a consortium of leading research, development and testing organizations across Canada led by Globe Performance Solutions. As the stormwater, renewable energy, and green building testing and verification centre for ETV, TRCA provides independent verification of technology performance claims so that users, developers, regulators, and other parties can make informed decisions about purchasing, applying, and regulating innovative technologies. Additional information on the Canadian ETV Program is available at www.etvcanada.ca.

BRE Scotland Innovation Park – Ravenscraig

The Living City Campus was borne out of TRCA’s “The Living City” vision. The vision challenges the organization and its partners to make the Greater Toronto Region one of the most sustainable, livable areas in the world. To build upon the success of the Archetype Sustainable House, accelerate the Living City vision, and elevate the Campus’s international profile, TRCA has partnered with the UK’s Building Research Establishment (BRE) to develop the BRE Innovation Park at The Living City Campus. One of the world’s largest building research, certification, and training organizations , BRE launched its “Innovation Park” concept in 2005 to assist the British construction industry in delivering new building code standards aimed at achieving net-zero carbon targets. In addition to net-zero energy and carbon, the Innovation Park demonstration buildings also feature innovative construction methods and technologies, sustainable landscape design, and also support the delivery of industry targeted education initiatives, acting as a hub for networking and knowledge exchange. Besides the first Innovation Park at Watford, four other parks are currently in the design or construction stages at Ravenscraig, Scotland; Beijing, China; Brasilia, Brazil; and Portland, USA. The BRE Innovation Park at The Living City Campus will be Canada’s Innovation Park, and along with other proposed and existing locations, will be part of the international BRE Innovation Park network.

The BRE Innovation Park at The Living City Campus aims to accelerate the commercialization and adoption of green building products and services into the Canadian mainstream and provide a vehicle for international recognition and acceptance. It will create a platform for the Canadian construction industry to demonstrate innovative solutions to achieve low carbon buildings and sustainable neighbourhood development using local skills, expertise and products.

Seven additional demonstration buildings will be constructed next to the Archetype Sustainable House. Buildings will be constructed to meet key design themes selected to suit the Canadian market: Accessibility, Assisted Living and Health; Affordable Sustainability; Climate Change Resiliency; Design for Deconstruction; Envelope First; First Nations Housing; Interactive Buildings; Low Impact Construction; Modern Methods of Construction; Net-Zero Energy; Off-Grid Design; Passive House; Refurbishment; Small-Scale Commercial; Towards 80% Energy Reduction; and Water Efficiency. In addition to meeting requirements for targeted design themes, each building will be required to meet minimum performance benchmarks set above current required levels. Minimum performance benchmarks will be set for energy, indoor water, indoor air quality, materials, and waste. Like the Archetype Sustainable House, the new demonstration buildings will feature plug-and-play and data collection capabilities to monitor, test, and verify new building products, energy system, and water reuse and treatment systems. A district energy system and smart grid demonstration project are also planned for the park.

The first Innovation Park project with be the refurbishment of an existing 1950’s residential building on the Kortright property. Targeted design themes for the refurbishment project include affordability, energy and water efficiency, climate change resiliency, accessibility, assisted living and health.

Proposed operational activities at the Innovation Park will include building and product monitoring, training and education programs aimed at public and industry, post-secondary research, events facilities, in-situ testing and evaluation, and educational and technical tours. The Innovation Park framework will foster research that will position Ontario and Canada as leaders in urban sustainability and influence future policy direction at municipal, provincial and federal levels.

All demonstration buildings and infrastructure in the Park will follow a measurement and monitoring program through design, construction, and operation phases. Research related to building process will include performance monitoring, user interactions, durability, buildability, life cycle costing, and economic analysis through design-to-operation and end-of-service life. Evaluations of construction-related risk, efficiency and improvement, and process and programming are also proposed, as well as investigations into supply chain interaction and user interaction.

The infrastructure design for the Park is currently underway and will be completed this fall. Construction of the infrastructure is anticipated to begin in Spring 2015 and the first building constructed in Fall 2015. A diverse group of build partners have been secured for all seven demonstration buildings, and design themes and performance benchmarks are currently being identified for each of the buildings. A number of local colleges and universities have also expressed interest in being involved with Innovation Park research projects, as well as including the Park in their curriculum.

Support from all industry and government sectors is crucial to the development of the BRE Innovation Park at The Living City Campus. TRCA is seeking support through cash sponsorships and in-kind contribution of services, materials, and construction labour for the development of the Park. For more information, please contact Glenn MacMillan (gmacmillan@trca.on.ca or 289-268-3901) or visit online at www.thelivingcitycampus.com/bre-innovation-park.

Glenn MacMillan is the Senior Manager of Water and Energy with the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority.