ARCHITECTURAL FOCUS ecosystem, a series of innovative measures were implemented, like green roofs and a large urban garden, which help retain rainwater and promote urban biodiversity. Moreover, the project was conceptualized to facilitate mobility with its parking and access ramp specifically designed for bikes, located on the complex’ s main facade, and its underground pedestrian passage, connecting to the public transit system.
Although this innovative project may seem atypical in a suburban context, the result reflects the specialties of the site and demonstrates a genuine concern to adapt to Laval’ s changing urban landscape.
A synergy of spaces More than just a key feature of the energy matrix, the idea of loop and connection is at the heart of Espace Montmorency, both physically and visually. Although predominantly composed of private spaces, the project was also designed for the majority of these areas to have a communal dimension, favoring the merging of resources and activities, all while encouraging the mingling of residents and visitors.
An integrated model of sustainability Instead of creating siloed spaces informed by their respective function, Espace Montmorency was designed to build connections by linking a series of blocks of different shapes, sizes, and textures. This approach allows for the creation of a complex that is not only optimized for user experience, but also in terms of energy and water management. With the integration of an energy loop, the complex reduces its greenhouse gas emissions by 91 % compared to a traditional building of the same size, all while decreasing its energy costs by 52 %.
“ We designed this project by accentuating the combination of systems and services to promote a lifestyle where the environmental footprint of each user is reduced,” adds Manuel R. Cisneros, Director, Environmental and Regenerative Strategies, Sid Lee Architecture.“ The objective is to create a maximal synergy, thus optimizing the use of natural resources within the ecosystem of the buildings themselves.”
For Espace Montmorency to act as a durable
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