Collaborative learning between design and construction students is facilitated in the Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence in Ottawa, designed by Edward J. Cuhaci and Associates Architects and Diamond Schmitt Architects. Photo Credit: Tom Arban Photography; Courtesy Diamond Schmit Architects Inc. The design of sustainable buildings requires a holistic approach, involving a spectrum of disciplines that were previously engaged individually or sequentially. Increasingly the areas of design expertise overlap and the systems within a building perform multiple functions. For example, the size and placement of windows is no longer exclusively an architectural concern, as maximizing daylight and minimizing unwanted solar heat gain clearly impacts the required size of electrical and mechanical systems. Just as optimal design is dependent on an increased level of integration, so optimal performance of buildings is dependent on the increased quality of construction.
The design and construction professionals of tomorrow must not only be trained to a higher level within their own area of expertise but also understand how their work interfaces with that of others. Thus, the realization of high-performance buildings becomes a collaborative effort, requiring a new level of cooperation between design professionals, construction managers, and contractors.
The Future is Here
Many design and construction students in post-secondary colleges and universities across the country are being educated in collaborative and cooperative environments, so they can become active participants and leaders in these emerging models of practice. The idea that achieving
durable, high performance buildings should be a collective responsibility is a transformative one. It extends beyond technical proficiency to include social responsibility and shared values.
The Role of the RAIC Foundation
As the charitable arm of the architectural profession at the national level, the RAIC Foundation (RAICF) is proud to support this emerging generation of architects with awards and sponsorships that encourage and reward innovation and excellence. In partnership with organizations like the Canada Green Building Council, university schools of architecture, and private benefactors, the RAICF administers a portfolio of annual awards and—as funding permits— one-time sponsorships of design and construction related lectures, exhibits, and other initiatives.
How Can You Help?
To extend our reach, we ask for your help. Please donate to the RAIC Foundation so we can continue to support our current programs, and create new scholarships, awards, and bursaries that will contribute to a stronger Canada—where everyone understands and values the essential role architecture plays in creating healthy and happy people and communities.
For more information on current RAICF programs visit www.raicf.ca You can make a one-time donation or become a member of our monthly donor club by clicking on the CanadaHelps.org link. If you wish to join our monthly donor club by pre-authorized automatic withdrawal from your bank account, please fill out this authorization form and mail it to the above address. All donations to the RAIC Foundation will receive an official charitable tax receipt. For more information, or if you have any questions about your donation, please email Jim Taggart, FIRAC (Executive Director) RAIC Foundation.
RAIC Foundation
c/o Royal Architectural Institute of Canada
415 McLeod Street
Ottawa, ON K2P 1A5
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