Here's the thing - we've been thinking about sustainability since before it was trendy. It's not just about slapping solar panels on roofs and calling it a day.
Every project we touch goes through a carbon analysis. We're aiming for net-zero by design, not as an afterthought. It's gotten to the point where we automatically think in terms of lifecycle impact before we even sketch.
Look, we've seen too many "green" projects that were basically greenwashing with a fancy certificate. That's not what gets us out of bed in the morning. We're talking actual, measurable impact - the kind where you can track energy savings month by month and watch your utility bills drop.
Started really diving deep into this around 2015 when a client asked us to renovate an old warehouse. Instead of gutting everything, we challenged ourselves to keep 80% of the existing structure. Turns out, adaptive reuse isn't just better for the planet - it creates spaces with character you just can't replicate with new construction.
Passive design strategies before throwing tech at problems. Orientation, thermal mass, natural ventilation - the basics still work.
Rainwater harvesting, greywater systems, native landscaping. Toronto gets enough rain - might as well use it smartly.
Local sourcing when possible, reclaimed materials when it makes sense, and full transparency on embodied carbon.
People need nature, not just pictures of it. Living walls, natural light, views that actually matter.
Each project's different, but here's generally how we break things down. Think of it as a roadmap, not a rigid checklist.
We start by figuring out where you're at. Site analysis, existing conditions, client goals. Can't get where you're going without knowing where you are, right?
This is where it gets fun. We map out strategies that actually fit your budget and timeline. Not every project needs geothermal, y'know?
Getting all the pieces to work together. HVAC, lighting, building envelope, water systems - it's like conducting an orchestra.
If you're chasing LEED or other certifications, we handle the paperwork. Not the most exciting part, but somebody's gotta do it.
Plans are great, but they only matter if they're built right. We stick around to make sure contractors aren't cutting corners on the green stuff.
The building's done, but our work isn't. We track actual performance vs. predictions and help you optimize operations over the first year.
We're pretty geeked out on building science. Energy modeling isn't just a box to check - it's how we test ideas before spending real money.
Full energy analysis within our 3D models. Revit + custom plugins = real-time sustainability feedback.
Detailed microclimate studies. Toronto weather's wild - gotta plan for everything.
Lifecycle assessment tools that break down embodied vs. operational carbon.
Real-time monitoring systems so you can see what's actually happening.
Let's be honest - sustainable design can add upfront costs. Usually we're talking 3-8% more on initial construction. But here's what nobody mentions: payback periods are getting shorter every year.
Had a commercial project last year where the client balked at spending extra $120K on better insulation and triple-pane windows. We ran the numbers - they'll save about $35K annually on heating and cooling. That's a 3.5 year payback. Then it's just gravy for the next 30+ years.
We'll show you the math before you commit. No surprises, no hidden costs. If the numbers don't work for your situation, we'll tell you straight up.
These aren't marketing fluff - they're actual measured results from completed projects.
Compared to baseline code requirements across our portfolio
Certified or in certification process since 2018
Annually through conservation systems we've designed