ENVI-met’s Post

Informed design decisions are critical to a holistic design. Check our the latest study from BDP Quadrangle on Better Balconies diving into factors impacting balcony design and providing a comprehensive insight. #BDP #BDPQuadrangle

We are excited to announce the release of BDP Quadrangle’s latest study, developed in collaboration with Multiplex, RWDI, Lukachko Climate Strategies, Sapphire Balconies, Res Precast Inc., and Global Precast Inc.. This research, a key supplement to our Low Carbon Now initiative that explores the impact of residential balconies in multi-unit buildings, focusing on thermal performance, embodied carbon, constructability, and cost. Given the importance of balconies in Toronto’s high-rise market, this study compares six different designs—including industry-standard cast-in-place slabs, structural thermal breaks, and precast systems—evaluating their carbon impact using a ratio of thermal performance (RSI) to global warming potential (GWP). This study offers a comprehensive look at the technical aspects of balcony design, emphasizing the importance of research that informs holistic design decisions, as evolving sustainability standards and the ongoing focus on housing supply, affordability, and livability keep balconies central to Toronto's housing discussions. Indeed, At BDP Quadrangle, we are committed to ensuring all of our projects net-zero carbon ready by 2030, and research like this helps drive our progress towards that goal. We would like to extend our gratitude to our collaborators for their invaluable contributions to this study. Together, we are pushing the boundaries of sustainable architecture and advancing the future of urban development. Learn more about this study by clicking the link below: https://loom.ly/bMHh0Zw #SustainableDesign #LowCarbonNow #NetZero2030 #BDPQuadrangle #UrbanDevelopment #BalconyDesign #EmbodiedCarbon #ThermalPerformance #GreenBuilding #EcoFriendlyArchitecture #BuildingTheFuture #CollaborativeResearch #EnergyEfficiency #CarbonReduction #TorontoArchitecture

🏡 What if your designs could redefine residential living? Today’s homeowners demand more than aesthetics—they want energy efficiency and sustainability. Energy-efficient glass and transparent solar panels allow architects to deliver homes that are both visually stunning and environmentally responsible. 💡 Hypothetical Example: imagine designing a family home where dynamic glass adjusts its tint to optimize natural light while minimizing heat gain. Not only does this reduce energy costs by 20%, but it also creates a more comfortable living environment. 💡 Actionable Tip: explore BIM tools that simulate sunlight paths to help you integrate glass solutions that enhance energy efficiency. 📧 Want more design ideas? Subscribe to our Sustainable Building Trends newsletter: https://lnkd.in/eepkvgNq #GreenArchitecture #SustainableDesign #EnergyEfficientHomes

Over time, the #climate has undergone significant changes due to several factors. As a result, the earth is experiencing rising temperatures. Therefore, #architects need to reconsider how buildings are designed to adapt to these changes while ensuring comfort. Here are some key strategies through which architects can create more sustainable and comfortable commercial and residential spaces. 𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧: Position #buildings strategically, insulate well, and use #natural ventilation. 𝐑𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐬: Choose materials that release heat, reflect sunlight, and provide good insulation. 𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲: Install gadgets like smart thermostats and automated shading systems to save energy. 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠: Add green roofs, plant trees, and include water features for natural temperature regulation. 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞: Design flexible structures, backup HVAC systems, and power solutions for extreme conditions.  𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠: Create cooler urban areas and ensure vulnerable populations have access to #temperature-controlled spaces. By focusing on these strategies, architects can create buildings that can handle the heat while keeping us comfortable and saving energy. #climateaction #temperaturefluctuations #climatechangeimpact #buildingarchitecture #buildingdesigns #architecturedesigns #zenithestima

🌿 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗱𝗼𝗼𝗿 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗥𝗼𝗼𝗳𝘀 🌿 We're excited to share our latest analysis, highlighting the thermal benefits of green roofs compared to traditional concrete roofs. Our study reveals significant improvements in Thermal Comfort Percentage (TCP), Mean Radiant Temperature (MRT), and Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) when green roofs are utilized. To achieve these results, we leverage cutting-edge simulation tools like #EnergyPlus and Ladybug Tools. These tools allow us to accurately model and analyze the thermal performance of buildings and urban environments, ensuring our designs meet sustainability and comfort standards. Green roofs not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of buildings but also offer measurable thermal advantages, including: 🌡️  𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁: Better regulation of outdoor temperatures, leading to improved comfort for occupants. ☀️ 𝗥𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗠𝗥𝗧: Lower surface temperatures, contributing to a cooler environment, mitigating Urban Heat Island intensity. 📉 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗨𝗧𝗖𝗜 𝗦𝗰𝗼𝗿𝗲𝘀: Enhanced human thermal perception and well-being. Our Co-founders, Riccardo Piazzai and Tiago Pereira, together with our AI-Powered Environmental Specialist Alessandro Grossi, are dedicated to pioneering innovative solutions that enhance urban living. From urban microclimate studies to indoor thermal analysis, from bioclimatic landscaping to material selection, our mission is to empower architects and designers to make informed and environmentally responsible decisions by performing sophisticated environmental analyses early in the design stages of a project. Join us in exploring sustainable solutions that make a difference in urban living. Together, we can create more comfortable and eco-friendly cities! #GreenRoof #ThermalComfort #Grasshopper #SustainableArchitecture #EnergyEfficiency #UrbanSustainability #SmartCities

Low-E (Low-Emissivity) glass is a game-changer in modern architecture, offering remarkable benefits for both residential and commercial buildings. Key Benefits: Energy Efficiency: Reflects heat, reducing heating and cooling costs. Comfort: Maintains consistent indoor temperatures. UV Protection: Blocks harmful UV rays, protecting interiors. Reduced Condensation: Minimizes window condensation. Environmental Impact: Lowers energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Applications: Residential and Commercial Buildings: Enhances energy efficiency and comfort. Automotive Industry: Improves climate control in vehicles. Skylights and Facades: Maximizes natural light while maintaining efficiency. #Sustainability #EnergyEfficiency #LowEGlass #Architecture #GreenBuilding #Innovation

Did you know that 26% of people are delaying having kids due to environmental concerns? It's a wakeup call! If individuals are worried about the planet's future, the building industry must step up. As façade architects, we can make a difference by: ☑️ Designing for the Environment: Optimize natural light and minimize heat gain for energy-efficient buildings that don't feel like a Sahara summer. ☑️ Embracing Smart Tech: Use smart shading systems and high-performance glazing to ensure comfort and energy efficiency. Buildings should know when to chill! ☑️ Staying Adaptable: Create façades that adjust to climate changes and utilize modular systems for efficient construction—building structures like trusty Swiss Army knives. Let's lead by example and design buildings that cooperate with nature. Your designs can have a real impact! Remember, leave behind a carbon footprint, not a carbon crater! #SustainableArchitecture #FacadeDesign #GreenBuilding #EnergyEfficiency #archmaq #allbuildngsmatter #ClimateAction #SmartBuildings #EcoFriendly #FutureOfDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation

🌱 Why Façades Are Critical in Achieving Green Building Certifications 🌍 In today’s world, sustainability is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Green building certifications like LEED, BREEAM, and WELL are becoming the gold standard in architecture and construction, and façades play a crucial role in meeting these benchmarks. Here’s why façades are the unsung heroes of green buildings: ✅ Energy Efficiency: High-performance façades reduce heat gain, retain warmth, and optimize natural light, significantly lowering energy consumption. ✅ Daylighting & Comfort: Thoughtfully designed façades maximize natural light while minimizing glare and heat, improving both energy efficiency and occupant well-being. ✅ Sustainable Materials: Façades using recycled, locally sourced, or low-VOC materials not only lower the environmental impact but also score high on certifications. ✅ Water Management: Green façades with vertical gardens manage stormwater, improve air quality, and enhance biodiversity, aligning with water efficiency goals. ✅ Innovative Technologies: Smart façades with dynamic shading, sensors, and even integrated solar panels (BIPVs) take building performance to the next level. ✅ Urban Sustainability: Cool roofs and façades designed to combat the urban heat island effect contribute to greener, healthier cities. Façades are more than just an architectural statement—they are a building’s first line of defense and a strategic tool for sustainability. 💡 Investing in advanced, sustainable façade systems isn’t just about achieving certifications; it’s about building a better future for generations to come. What role do you think façades play in shaping the future of architecture? Let’s discuss in the comments! #GreenBuilding #Sustainability #FacadeDesign #LEED #BREEAM #Architecture #EnergyEfficiency #SmartBuilding #SustainableArchitecture #BuildingInnovation

The Multifaceted Benefits Of Repurposing Buildings In today's rapidly evolving urban landscape, the concept of #repurposing buildings(also known as adaptive reuse)has emerged as a powerful strategy with a multitude of benefits. By transforming existing structures for new purposes, we can address environmental, economic, social, and cultural challenges in innovative ways. Here’s why repurposing buildings should be at the forefront of our urban development strategies: 1. #Environmental Stewardship Repurposing buildings significantly reduces our environmental / carbon footprint. By conserving natural resources and minimising construction debris, we actively combat the growing waste problem. Adaptive reuse also curbs urban sprawl, preserving green spaces and reducing the ecological impact of new developments. The energy savings from renovating rather than demolishing and rebuilding are substantial, contributing to a more sustainable future. 2. Economic Advantages Economically, adaptive reuse is a win-win. Renovating existing structures is often more cost-effective than new construction, considering the savings on demolition, land acquisition, and infrastructure development. Additionally, these projects can boost property values and stimulate local economies by creating jobs in construction, design, and related fields. 3. Social Impact Repurposing buildings can breathe new life into communities. By revitalising neglected areas, these projects foster community pride and engagement. They also preserve historical and cultural narratives, providing a tangible connection to our past. The enhanced urban aesthetics resulting from repurposed buildings contribute to a more vibrant and appealing cityscape. 5. #Sustainable Development Aligning with sustainable development goals, adaptive reuse promotes efficient resource use and reduces the carbon footprint associated with new construction. 6. Cultural and Aesthetic Enrichment Repurposing buildings helps preserve architectural styles and craftsmanship from previous eras, maintaining the historical fabric of our cities. These projects celebrate the history and culture of places, creating spaces that honour the past while serving contemporary needs. Conclusion The benefits of repurposing buildings extend far beyond the immediate economic and environmental gains. By embracing adaptive reuse, we can create sustainable, vibrant, and culturally rich communities. Let’s champion the transformation of our urban spaces, preserving the past while building a better future. https://lnkd.in/e2Xzku56 #architects #architecturaltechnologist #insulation #sustainable #sustainableconstruction #sustainability