Energy positive (E+) rowhouse design @ Parker St
Lately we’ve been thinking a lot about housing, and ways that we can continue to bring a fresh, creative and collaborative process to the design of multi-family housing. Quite simply, urban housing does not come with a one-size-fits-all-solution. Instead, it requires a tailored, contextual approach that engages surrounding communities in meaningful, productive dialogue. At Studio G, our team is constantly pushing the envelope with sustainable materials and practices, exploring innovative household types such as ‘micro-units’ and cottage-style housing, and testing the development capacity of city parcels. We’ve distilled our current philosophy into a few key drivers:
Design for inhabitants: good unit layout support their daily life; daylight, natural ventilation and eco-friendly materials enhance their health; and a vibrant, lively façade welcomes them home. Two years of occupancy data from our 270 Centre project demonstrates the value of designing healthy homes – property management reports reduced asthma attacks and other respiratory illnesses among at-risk residents.
Design for owners: high performance systems and envelope, and durable materials reduce operating costs; well-designed common areas support property management as well as residents; a beautiful building with well-designed units ensures long term occupancy.
Design for the neighborhood: new multi-family housing adds vibrancy with a pedestrian-friendly first floor; landscaped open space offers visual relief in dense urban areas; and first floor commercial and/or community space helps sustain local businesses and build the broader community.