Universal Design, also referred to as “inclusive design”, can be defined as “the architectural and creative process of ensuring infrastructure in the built environment is accessible to all, regardless of age, ability, or any other demographic,” according to Hadriana Lowenkron for Bloomberg.
Those engaged in construction and other trades can affirm that the sector is a challenging one. The challenges are presented in numerous ways. Factors such as the physical demands of the work, jobsite safety, long or irregular hours, separation from family thanks to the industry’s scattered construction sites, and financial insecurity in downturns are just a few of the common stressors.
A good ‘quality of life’ takes into consideration evaluations of overall physical health, degree of happiness, culture and values, positive social interactions, and liveable neighbourhoods which we gladly call home. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines quality of life as an “individual’s perception of their position in life in the context of the culture and value systems in which they live and in relation to their goals, expectation, standards and concerns.”
A person’s home is more than a physical structure providing shelter. Homes are our refuges from the masses and places where families are raised, friends socialize, and where our most memorable times are shared. But there is a huge differentiator between a building that is merely a roof over our heads and a home that is considered quality, safe, suitable, and affordable housing. Research clearly indicates that the latter leads to a sense of personal wellbeing.
Duluth, Minnesota is home to a construction company that for 50 years has proven its diverse capabilities for clients in northern Minnesota and Wisconsin. Today, Northland Constructors is thriving with approximately 40 full-time and 250 seasonal employees.
Attending sporting events is intricately woven into American society and culture. Diehard fans would never miss the opportunity to see their favorite team or player outshine the competition.
It has become clear to those that really care about the environment, that initiatives toward a sustainable planet are no longer an option – they are a necessity. Individuals and businesses have to change their strategies to effectively address the environmental challenges before us.
Since the first humans roamed the face of this planet, there has been a need for not only food, but shelter from the elements in a place of security and comfort where family gathers. However, our shelter expectations have come a long way since then. Enter building science, the study of “how heat, air, and moisture interact with a building enclosure and its occupants,” according to Building Knowledge Canada’s (BKC) Vice President and Director of Building Science Andrew Oding.
The skyline of Halifax, Nova Scotia’s capital city, is changing, primarily due to substantial multi-residential development. This particular sector is showing no indication of slowing. In fact, according to the Conference Board of Canada, the city is forecast to grow by close to two percent this year.
Michuda Construction is a century-old construction firm, established in 1919. It remains family-owned, providing full services in general contracting and construction management. The company operates in many markets including commercial, education, senior living, and places of worship. However, its primary specialization has always been the healthcare industry, where it has decades of experience working within occupied spaces while integrating lean and clean practices.
