How We Actually Do This Stuff
It's not magic - just smart choices, good partnerships, and honestly caring about what happens after we're done.
Started With Passive Design
Look, we didn't invent the wheel here. We just started actually using building orientation, natural ventilation, and thermal mass properly. Shocking how many firms still ignore the basics. Got our first LEED Gold that year and thought we were hot stuff.
Went Deep on Materials
This is where things got real. Started tracking embodied carbon in everything - concrete mixes, steel, insulation, you name it. Partnered with local suppliers who could prove their stuff wasn't just greenwashing. Yeah, it costs more upfront, but the lifecycle numbers? Chef's kiss.
Energy Systems Overhaul
Brought in our first energy modeling specialist full-time. Every project now gets simulated before we pour concrete. Solar arrays, geothermal where it makes sense, heat recovery ventilation as standard. We're basically energy nerds now and not ashamed of it.
Water & Waste Revolution
Toronto's got water issues people don't talk about enough. Started designing rainwater harvesting into every commercial project. Greywater recycling, permeable surfaces, native plant landscaping - the works. Also got serious about construction waste, hitting 80%+ diversion rates consistently.
Net-Zero Everything
We're done messing around. Every new project targets net-zero operational carbon. That means serious envelope performance, on-site renewables, and being brutally honest about what's actually achievable. Some clients think we're nuts until they see the utility bills. Then they get it.
Biophilic Integration & Smart Monitoring
We're diving deeper into biophilic design - not just slapping plants on walls but actually understanding how nature impacts wellbeing. Plus rolling out real-time monitoring systems so buildings can learn and adapt. The future's gonna be weird and we're here for it.
