Strategies

Process

Stand Architecture utilizes an Integrated design process, adapted to the needs of each project. During this process we prefer to have all stakeholders and all consultants involved as early as possible. Through this holistic approach solutions better reflect the requirements, ensure better coordination and produce highly refined results. Clear and timely communication is the critical attribute of a well managed integrated design process.

Team

We have long standing relationships with engineers and contract architectural consultants that allow us to tailor each team to meet the needs of the project and evolve our capacity as required.

Production and Quality

Stand Architecture and our consultants utilize Revit based building information modelling to support our integrated design process. As part of our quality assurance program, we have developed a rigorous documentation and communication system to ensure that all decisions are captured and implemented.

Budget

Our projects can achieve Passive House certification with a near zero premium for construction. Low embodied carbon products and techniques can cost less than traditional high carbon approaches. We have experience designing low carbon construction assemblies that utilize common practices that help control costs. The well coordinated construction packages that result from an integrated design process reduce risk and potential change orders.

Schedule

Well coordinated construction packages that result from an integrated process help ensure that projects are able to stay on schedule due to reduced errors. Our use of common and familiar construction methodologies and materials combat supply chain issues. We are responsive and attentive during the construction administration process to ensure that the contractor can move forward with confidence.

Construction Strategies

While we focus on using standard construction strategies and materials to combat costs and supply chain issues, we have experience with advanced technologies that have the potential to offer additional carbon reduction, speed up construction schedules, reduce labor costs or offer offer unique design opportunities. These technologies include Mass Timber, modular construction and panelized construction. 3D printing is another technology that is still in its infancy but we are watching close.

Climate

Our primary strategy to address climate impacts is the Passive House energy framework. Through this tool we are able to reduce operational carbon by at least 80% or even reach net energy positive. In addition we have experience in using low embodied carbon materials that, when combined with Passive House, can create Net Carbon Negative projects. The resulting projects are resilient and responsive to our changing climate conditions, and are able to withstand temperature and air quality extremes. We also have experience with creating projects that meet every level of the step code.

Resilience

Once a project has achieved Net Negative Carbon, the step to the true resilience offered by off-grid capabilities is significantly more attainable due to reduced loads. Integrating energy production and storage systems becomes cost effective. Through these strategies, our projects are able to continue to operate during extreme climate events that may disrupt regional systems. Additional technologies such as water capture and storage, xeriscape low intensity landscaping, permaculture inspired food production and food storage capacity can help create projects that are prepared for changing climate conditions.

Accessibility

Stand Architecture follows the BC building code and BC Housing accessibility design guidelines. In addition, we are working to achieve Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification (RHFAC), the most rigorous accessibility framework available in Canada.

Human Health

Through our LEED and industrial design training, we have developed a sensitivity and appreciation for choosing low carbon healthy materials. Passive House, with a 100% fresh air exchange system that utilizes MERV 13 and carbon filtration, ensures that our projects have the highest available indoor air quality at all times.