Articles from Construction Canada

Montgomery Sisam Architects has designed an innovative modular affordable housing project in Durham that features Scandinavian-inspired architecture. The design includes elements like a reading nook, community space, and a spacious terrace, aiming to integrate harmoniously with the rural environment. The project addresses urgent housing needs in the region, utilizing off-site prefabrication to reduce construction time, waste, and emissions. A total of 47 fully self-contained suites have been developed, showcasing sustainable construction practices.

The Shudell House, designed by Weiss Architecture + Urbanism, showcases innovative aging-in-place features in Toronto's older neighborhoods. The design includes a distinctive diamond pattern and buff brick facades, blending heritage with modern functionality. Key features include an elevator, a roll-in shower, and a universally accessible kitchen. Natural light is enhanced through light wells, skylights, and a double-height dining area.

The article discusses the role of the Home Construction Regulatory Authority (HCRA) in Ontario, which regulates the licensing of builders and ensures compliance with construction standards. The HCRA works to reduce illegal building activities through mandatory education and enforcement measures. It provides resources like the Ontario Builder Directory for transparency and a newly launched website with resource hubs for builders and consumers. The authority aims to maintain a high standard in homebuilding, protect consumer interests, and enhance industry confidence.

The Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH) announced the winners of its 2025 Award of Excellence competition, which focuses on sustainable development practices. Canadian towers honored include T3 Bayside, Alberni by Kengo Kuma, Ontario Court of Justice, TD Terrace, and CIBC Square. The award categories highlight buildings that use low-carbon materials and innovative designs in sustainable urbanism, with submissions required to include data on carbon and material usage as part of a pilot program. The awards cover projects across 20 countries, showcasing leadership in vertical urbanism.

Marianne McKenna and Shirley Blumberg, founding architects of KPMB Architects, have been awarded the 2025 RAIC Gold Medal, the highest honor in Canadian architecture. McKenna is recognized for her contributions to cultural architecture, notably her work on The Royal Conservatory of Music and Massey Hall in Toronto. Blumberg is celebrated for architecture promoting inclusion and equity, exemplified by her projects like the Montreal Holocaust Museum and the Global Centre for Pluralism in Ottawa. The award will be formally presented at the RAIC Conference on Architecture in June.