Articles from Canadian Architect

A new AI model is designed to improve indoor ventilation in buildings during wildfire seasons, when outdoor air quality significantly deteriorates due to smoke and particulate matter. Developed by researchers at Carleton University, the model integrates simulation with deep learning to optimize indoor environments, helping reduce carbon dioxide levels and minimize the health impacts of poor air quality. This model allows designers to simulate various scenarios in enclosed spaces, offering insight into effective placement and quantity of ventilation systems. As wildfires continue to affect Canadian air quality, such innovations are seen as essential in creating safer indoor environments.

Urbanarium announced the winners of the Decoding Timber Towers competition, which challenged participants to innovate in the design of mass timber residential and mixed-use buildings. The contest received entries from six countries, with winning teams praised for their modular and sustainable designs. MT3, an intern team from Moriyama Teshima Architects, won first place and jointly received the DIGITAL Prize. The competition also highlighted potential changes in building codes to enhance affordability and sustainability in housing.

Discover Montessori School, designed by Checkwitch Poiron Architects, is a sustainable educational facility on Vancouver Island, BC, which has been awarded the CAGBC Zero Carbon Certification. The project emphasized low-carbon construction and sustainable practices, utilizing recycled materials and rainwater catchment systems. It also won various awards for its innovative and eco-friendly design despite budget constraints. The school's focus on sustainability is inspired by Montessori principles of minimalism and interconnectedness.

The University of British Columbia (UBC) has unveiled the Gordon B. Shrum Building, designed by Patkau Architects, as the new hub for the School of Biomedical Engineering (SBME). This purpose-built facility will unify SBME's previously dispersed locations and includes specialized labs and collaborative spaces to advance biomedical research and education. The project, valued at $139.4 million, was funded by the Government of British Columbia, UBC, and philanthropic contributions. This building will foster research, education, and innovation in biomedical engineering while supporting the growth of Canada's life sciences sector.