When you first hear the term 'sustainability' applied to new development projects, technologically advanced building designs that are able to meet stricter energy targets may be the first thing that comes to mind. There is a growing suite of goals, however, that are now being incorporated to both meet increased public expectations, while at the same time introducing new features that become must-haves over time. Alongside reductions in energy use and emissions, frameworks like the Toronto Green Standard have widened the scope of design considerations to include resilience, reducing long-term operating costs, ecological concerns, and occupant well-being.

Pressure to reduce carbon-intensive materials has been with us for years. The need to balance upfront construction costs with long-term performance has always been there, but is more acute now as fuel has become ever more expensive. Livability issues have been an increasing focus as suites have decreased in size; better use of limited space, interior air quality, and access to light have long been considered. Recent additions to that list though now also include elevator response times and abatement from rising urban noise levels.