GTA builders are learning from the best in the world
To help the building and development industry in the GTA grow and evolve, we search the globe for new and innovative ideas that can be adapted and implemented here.
BILD works with experts and homebuilders’ associations around the world to educate our members on best practices for planning, developing and building new communities.
Many ideas are imported and incorporated into the creation of new communities across the GTA and others provide inspiration for future projects.
For example, by studying Danish architecture in Copenhagen, our members learned about building wood-frame midrise buildings. This ensured they were ready when the Ontario amended the building code to allow for wood-frame buildings up to six storeys.
Wood-frame construction is prevalent in Copenhagen and that city is dominated by four- and six-storey buildings, most made of wood instead of the glass towers we typically see in North American cities.
Although the housing market in Berlin is largely rental-based and significantly different from the GTA, that city offers lots of interesting ideas about architecture.
Berlin has a lot of infill development and buildings and their amenities are creatively designed to integrate into their surroundings.
Rather than being hidden away, many parking areas and garage doors are beautifully designed to blend into the streetscape.
Since we want to continue to build greener homes in the GTA, our industry looked to Milan for innovative ideas.
Italy introduced mandatory energy labelling on buildings 10 years ago, which led to the adoption of some really interesting water and energy conservation mechanisms.
Developers in Milan combine style and function by incorporating European design into their green features.
This includes using rainwater collected from the buildings as public fountains, or planting hundreds of trees in planter boxes on condo balconies for benefits such as shade and improved air quality.
U.S. markets like Miami showcase great examples of marketing luxury condominiums with extravagant amenities.
New-home buyers in the city are treated to over-the-top sales offices, larger suites and supersized models.
Purchasers are responsible for the interior design of their suites, allowing them to customize every aspect of their home to their liking.
In addition to learning about other markets, the GTA also welcomes numerous groups from cities around the world.
Over the years we have welcomed industry professionals from places like Austria, Denmark, China and Russia to showcase our communities and building practices. Bryan Tuckey is president and CEO of the Building Industry and Land Development Association and a land-use planner who has worked for municipal, regional and provincial governments. Follow him at twitter.com/bildgta, facebook.com/bildgta and bildblogs.ca.