Today more than ever, the design of our home is of great importance for our moral and physical health. We have entered a new era where we now spend a large majority of our time at home. This is why our well-being is no longer just a question of comfort but a necessity.
NEW TRENDS: MATERIALS, ENVIRONMENT AND HUMANS
If we look at the latest trends in housing construction, for the past 20 years, several projects have applied modifications to become LEED certified. This implies that the architects, designers and engineers of a project must comply with strict rules in order to reduce, reuse and recycle the materials used that can harm the environment and limit the negative effects on the operation of the buildings. This certification targets the making of the project itself and the materials used.
Over the past 7 years, another trend native to New York City has emerged to finally promote the well-being and health of individuals in their environment. Called the WELL certification, it was created by the International Well Building Institute. This certification recommends several factors and elements that make environments conducive to health such as the quality of water, air and light. In addition, the WELL movement promotes accessible and nearby facilities for physical activity, comfort and socialization.
In Canada, we can find completed and WELL certified projects in Vancouver and Toronto. The trend has grown eastward to inspire our Quebec architects and designers for several projects that are in the process of obtaining their WELL certifications.
In Montreal itself, one project is attracting attention: the Humaniti project. This new modern concept brings together five different types of space uses in a single building. According to the plans, it could include condos, a hotel, a restaurant, offices and shops. However, only the rental units are WELL certified. As for the other spaces, the complex is LEED certified.
Humaniti project designer Mr. Lafrance is one of the first members of the Well faculty in Canada. His primary goal is to provide access to a better quality of life by adopting various strategies to improve the sleep, mood, comfort and physical health of his tenants.
Source: Humaniti
There are several criteria that must be met for a new construction to be WELL certified. The performance standards are precise and strict in all their categories. The renewable certification is valid for a period of three years to ensure that WELL certified owners remain up to date with the criteria.
WATER
For every WELL certified project, water is one of the resources that must be at its highest level of quality. Daily analysis using filtration systems is essential. The Humaniti project ensures optimal quality for all resident occupants.
THE AIR
Did you know that statistics show that we spend 90% of our time indoors? It is said that many physical and mental health problems come from air pollution, that indoor pollution is much higher than outdoor pollution. This is why the instructions to follow for air quality are clear and strict. The materials used in the design of the Humaniti project buildings are carefully selected. Floor coverings, cabinets, paint, insulation and adhesive products must meet VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) emission reduction standards. As for the air conditioning and heating systems, each residence has its own device to control the temperature to their liking.
Source: Humaniti
THE LIGHT
It is proven that natural light is one of the most important characteristics that affects the quality of sleep and mood of an individual. The quantity and consistency of light exposure decreases mobility and vitality problems. In all the Humaniti project housing units, Mr. Lafrance ensured that several windows were installed in each room, not just in the bedrooms.
Source: Humaniti
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Humaniti also supports a lively and energetic environment. Facilities that promote physical activity are set up within the complex. A two-story fitness center with all the necessary equipment is available to tenants and owners. Two outdoor pools located on the various roofs of the building are accessible to occupants. One for guests of the hotel located on the roof of the office tower and the other for residents located on the 20th floor. Located in downtown Montreal at the intersection of Bleury Street and Viger Avenue, the project is in an ideal location to promote physical activity. The proximity of access to bike paths, pedestrian streets and metro stations allows residents to contribute to their well-being.
Source: Humaniti
COMFORT
When we talk about comfort, we are referring to the acoustic comfort of the building. This means that the condos are soundproofed to block out ambient noise from outside and from neighboring condos. Noise is a major source of discomfort, which is why during the construction of Humaniti, attention was paid to noise suppression.
ELEMENTS REMINISCENT OF NATURE
By having components of nature integrated into the environment, stress is reduced and emotional health increases. WELL best practices emphasize the implementation of elements of nature indoors. We will therefore find components such as linen, rattan and, eagerly, plants in the decor. In addition, the condos of the Humaniti project are in direct contact with nature without the residents even noticing. The different landscapes give residents the chance to have different views of trees, works of art and for occupants living higher up, a spectacular view of the river.
Source: Humaniti
