Davis Kane Architects, P.A.’s Post

Peggy Chi, PhD's presentation yesterday about her research on long term care was sobering. Her research shows that access to the outdoors improves residents' wellbeing, but unfortunately, this access is too often denied in long-term care homes. Having views of green spaces is not enough, she found, residents must have access to these spaces to have effect. The current long-term care paradigm in Ontario calls for large resident household areas (RHAs - 32 beds), usually in mid-rise buildings, especially in urban sites. LTC homes compete with residential developers for land, which leads to such dense designs. While such facilities have their advantages, a clear drawback is the difficulty of providing access to generous outdoor areas. Courtyards and gardens are often at grade and residents have to go through a series of barriers (elevators, lobbies, vestibules) if they are allowed to leave the RHA at all. Balconies are required by the MLTC design manual but they do not have minimum area requirements and many LTC homes keep their doors locked for safety concerns. On a side note, one of my proudest achievements is convincing one of our clients to provide a generous roof patio on the third floor of a new LTC building. A possible solution to this design problem is small household LTC facilities with 10-16 residents per RHA, 1-3 RHAs in a building, on much smaller residential sites. A possible design for such facilities is a single-storey building surrounded by and/or surrounding secure gardens that are easily accessible from RHA amenity areas. Having fewer residents will allow both architecturally and operationally for easier monitoring of residents in both indoor and outdoor spaces, reducing some of the safety concerns. As always, it does not have to be an either-or, we can have different types of homes to accommodate a variety of residents instead of a one-size-fits-all all. #longtermcare #seniorshousing #nursinghome #architecture #ltc #seniorlivingdesign

📢 Planning Success Lockhart Road Approval for Three Wheelchair-Accessible Homes Lockhart Road garages is set to be transformed with the approval of planning permission for three inclusive houses designed specifically for wheelchair users. This decision marks a significant stride towards creating more accessible housing options within Elmbridge. The innovative properties will have a range of inclusive features, including wider doorways, spacious internal rooms, accessible bathrooms, and additional storage for equipment. Additionally, each home will offer level access and step-free entrances, ensuring seamless mobility for wheelchair users. WWA is committed to integrating inclusive design principles ensuring the homes are functional and aesthetically pleasing. The external spaces will also be designed to be accessible with gardens that promote independence and enhance residents' quality of life. The approval of planning permission for these three wheelchair-accessible homes underscores the importance of creating spaces that are accessible to all. In an era where inclusivity is paramount, developments like this pave the way for a more equitable and welcoming society. #WWAStudios #Architecture #UrbanDesign #TownPlanning #InclusiveDesign #AccessibleHousing #Developments #Housing

#urbandesign #urbanism #urbanplanning #urbancodes Urban design codes are a set of regulations and guidelines that dictate the physical aspects and characteristics of a city or neighborhood. They aim to create harmonious and functional spaces that enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors. Urban design codes play a crucial role in shaping the built environment of cities. They ensure that buildings, public spaces, and infrastructure are thoughtfully designed to promote safety, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal. Urban design codes help establish a unique visual identity for a city or neighborhood. They regulate architectural styles, building materials, and street space elements to create a cohesive and visually pleasing environment that reflects the local culture and history. Urban design codes prioritize pedestrian-friendly environments by regulating the layout of streets, sidewalks, and public spaces.  By encouraging walk ability and connectivity, they promote active lifestyles, reduce reliance on cars, and foster social interactions. Urban design codes incorporate principles of sustainability by encouraging energy-efficient buildings, green infrastructure, and the preservation of natural landscapes. They promote the integration of parks, gardens, and urban forests to enhance the quality of the urban environment and mitigate the impacts of climate change. Urban design codes strike a balance between accommodating population growth and preserving open spaces. They regulate building heights, setbacks, and the provision of public plazas to ensure a harmonious mix of density and access to green areas. In conclusion, urban design codes are essential tools for creating livable, functional, and visually appealing cities. By regulating various aspects of the built environment, they shape our urban spaces to reflect our values, enhance quality of life, and foster sustainable development.

Super excited our proposal for a carefully crafted stone built mixed-use development at the entrance to Northampton, brought forward by the team at @iceni, has passed the validation stage and is set for committee in April. This development has been designed to enhance the southern gateway to Northampton with a finely crafted building of fifty-four high-quality apartments and ground floor commercial space. These are distributed across a future-proofed structure with dual cores and twin stairs, ranging from six to eight storeys, and featuring a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom units. Importantly, 35% of these homes are planned to be affordable, highlighting a commitment to inclusive community development. Located at the town's entrance, the development has been designed to offer panoramic views of Northampton from its rooftop gardens, blending modern design with a nod to tradition. The design incorporates two interlocking blocks with a curved stone facade, a gesture towards the town’s historical stone-built buildings. Being close to a scheduled Ancient monument, the project was developed in close collaboration with heritage officers, aiming to set a precedent for future developments in the town centre. Our design approach respected Northampton's architectural heritage and anticipates its future needs. The facade, with its textured and smooth stone layers, is intended to complement both the local streetscape and nearby structures, including the Grade 1 listed St. Peter's Church. Sustainability has been a key aspect of the project, with features like rooftop gardens, renewable energy use, and carbon reduction strategies to create a healthier environment for residents. As we move forward, our focus is on positively impacting Northampton by providing contemporary living spaces, supporting job opportunities, and contributing to a welcoming new commercial area. We look forward to keeping you informed as the project progresses. Beautiful CGI’s by Blackpoint Design Ltd. Design Ltd  Planning and heritage Iceni Projects Civils by Herrington Consulting Ltd   #NorthamptonDevelopment #sustainabledesign #communitybuilding #mixedusedevelopment #regeneration #northampton #placemaking #housing #mixeduse #newbuild #newbuilding #stefanshawstudio

Complete #construction before the school bell rings with Sto Panel Technology. Project teams for higher education construction commonly find themselves working within the confines of a condensed schedule. Often, they need to complete the project before students and staff return to campus for another year of learning. Sto Panel prefabricated #exterior wall systems offer a long-lasting, #sustainable, complete building envelope solution with aesthetic options that fit any campus design. They can be installed quickly and efficiently when it is needed most. Discover the benefits of #prefab for student housing. https://lnkd.in/gfFjBeNT

Introducing the new Echo Trail Middle School in Metro Louisville, catering to 1,000 students and nestled in a rapidly growing area. Set against a stunning rural backdrop with forests, fields, and a stream, it's conveniently located across from the renowned Parklands at Floyd’s Fork. The architectural design pays homage to the natural surroundings, focusing on building siting, massing, and articulation. Using insulated concrete formwork and geothermal heating and cooling ensures exceptional efficiency. The school, shaped like barn-like structures, is strategically positioned on a plateau for optimal visibility from the street and park. The design allows for breathtaking views from both outside and inside the building. From a distance, the school resembles a weathered wood barn, thanks to a custom pattern of four conventional bricks, glazing, and glazed porcelain tile. The brick cladding extends through glass-clad connecting corridors, embracing the historical essence of the pavilions. Inside, the two-story pavilions neatly define grade levels, administrative offices, teaching areas, and gym/cafeteria support spaces. Team clusters surround central gathering spaces, with glass-enclosed technology learning spaces at the heart of each grade. Daylight devices bring natural light into the central support core. The media center and social commons are designed for engagement with media, technology, and nature, cascading down into the landscape. Small terrace areas offer outdoor class use and breakout spaces for art and media engagement. 🏫🌳 #SchoolDesign #InnovationInEducation #NatureInspiredArchitecture #JRAarchitects #EnlivenedDesign

Its Fantastic to be able to finally share the vision for Nolans Public House, a project that's close to our hearts and buzzing with potential - the transformation of a key corner site in Nine Elms into a beacon of community and environmental sustainability. Led by Stefan Shaw Studio, the project reimagines what the site at Nolan's Public House could be (and should remain) for the community. Contrary to the trend of replacing public spaces, we're taking a stand to preserve Nolan's Public House at the heart of our design. It's more than a pub; it's a community treasure, a place of connection and cherished memories. Along with our client – the Nolan Group we're committed to keeping it that way. Proposals submitted this February with a team including Quod ICINI PROJECTS LIMITED Knapp Hicks & Partners, Ltd CHP Surveyors Ltd and Tetra Tech amongst others, is a bold step forward. We're transforming the existing public house into a welcoming, vibrant mixed-use hub that's all about sustainability, community, and innovation. A place where contemporary design meets environmental consciousness, featuring: ·        A ground-floor pub that retains its traditional charm while embracing the future – (Dart boards and pool tables included!) ·        Sustainable construction techniques, including prefabricated lightweight steel framing, to minimize waste and disruption. ·        Communal roof gardens that offer a green oasis in the urban landscape. ·        Ample bicycle parking, catering to our eco-conscious community and those commuting from the new Nine Elms Station. We're not just building structures; we're crafting experiences, memories, and a sustainable future for Nine Elms with a community-focused development that keeps the pub right where it should be – at the heart of the community! #NolansPublicHouse #NineElms #CommunityDevelopment #SustainableDesign #UrbanRevival #StefanShawStudio #RIBA #MixedUse #MixedUseArchitects #MixedUseArchitecture #MixedUseCommunity #Sustainability #SustainableDesign #ResponsibleDesign #Residential #Publichouse #pub #TransportationHub #Placemaking #architects #Architecture #Masterplanners #Designers #Nineelms #London #Nolans

DESIGN TO ENCOURAGE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR ALL The following features of urban design and community infrastructure can encourage and support physical activity for people of all ages. Residential and public buildings that are accessible and designed with the needs of older people in mind, including: 📍Visible markings and adequate lighting for those who have sight limitations; 📍Non-slip flooring on one level wherever possible, avoiding use of rugs and other trip hazards; 📍Handrails and stair rails. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/d5qEDRj #HealthyUrbanDesign #PhysicalActivityForAll #InclusiveInfrastructure #AgingInPlace #AccessibleBuildings #CommunityWellness #SafeFlooringDesign #SightFriendlySpaces #InclusiveHandrails #UrbanHealthInitiative #AgeFriendlyDesign #HealthyLiving #InclusiveSpaces #PublicHealthDesign #WellnessArchitecture #OsteoporosisAwareness

The history of the skyscraper is an ever-evolving testament to architectural innovation and urban evolution. Emerging in the late 19th century, skyscrapers revolutionised city landscapes, driven by advancements in engineering, materials, and a need for efficient land use. The Home Insurance Building in Chicago, completed in 1885, is often considered the first skyscraper. It featured a new wave of construction innovation -- a steel frame, allowing for unprecedented height and stability. Architects like Louis Sullivan and Daniel Burnham pioneered this new vertical architecture. Sullivan's designs emphasised form following function, integrating ornamentation with a celebration of structure, while Burnham’s planning of cities like Chicago laid the groundwork for modern skylines. The early 20th century saw rapid advancements, with New York’s skyline dominated by the Woolworth and Chrysler buildings. The Empire State Building, completed in 1931, held the title of the world’s tallest building for 40 years and still stands as a symbol of human ambition and the technological advances of its time. In Australia, skyscraper development began in the mid-20th century, with the construction of the 25-story AMP Building in Sydney in 1962 marking the start of our high-rise boom. This era shifted towards modernism and urban consolidation, reflecting global trends elsewhere. Now, it seems to be a race to the top. With technology leading the way, developers keep going higher and higher with their skyscraper ambitions. But how much is design compromised in this process, which ultimately is a feat of engineering? What’s your favourite skyscraper? Pictured, Newspaper clipping of the proposed AMP Building in Sydney