Lore
Window Restrictors and Keeping You Safe
Ever wondered why your window will only open about 4" when you are in need of a nice cool breeze from outside? This is a Building Code measure to keep your little people and perhaps you after one to many adult beverages, from falling through the opening. At least from a height that will result in more than just an embarrassing storey!
Recently I helped a client determine where window restrictor devices were required in their building design.
Learn about when window restrictor devices are required by reading this article I wrote on our website.
celerity.ca
Mezzanines Forever!
Mezzanines continue to be a challenging topic both for designers and for authorities.
Recently we supported an application to the BC Building Code Appeal Board regarding the application of the egress allowances from a mezzanine for the 2018 British Columbia Building Code. The appeal board ruled in the applicants favour that a mezzanine is permitted to be served by both an exit at the mezzanine level and an open stair to the floor below.
This ruling will continue to be informative to the application of the 2024 British Columbia Building Code, which has now adopted the 2020 National Building Code of Canada wording regarding determining if a mezzanine is permitted not to be counted as a storey when determining building height.
gov.bc.ca
On the Town
Passive House Canada Conference
Wondering about what is happening with Passive House in Canada these days? How about attending their annual conference this year, held in my beautiful home of Victoria!
Hosted on the lush University of Victoria campus from June 17th to 19th, you can experience a little bit of student life before the kids camps start in July.
With nearly 60 speakers and events over 3 days, there is a little for everyone. Or, at least a contribution to your Professional Development hours!
passivehousecanada.com
Unsolicited Opinion
Micro-Units
With today's challenge of housing everyone with affordable options, many ideas are being considered. Micro-units are one such option and this Canadian Architect Op-Ed Article provides some great insight into this approach.
While not for everyone and every stage of life, micro-units can be a viable option in an urban environment where shops, cafes, and similar amenities are near by allow the European approach of living on the street. For me, this would have been a great option when I was younger, and for my kids in a few years when they (finally?) leave the nest.
canadianarchitect.com
