mixed-use development: a growing trend
The rise of mixed-use developments offers the opportunity to create sustainable, environmentally friendly, and long-lasting buildings that enhance their surroundings. The neighbourhood and its tenants are provided with a place where people can live, work, and play in the same area.

Mixed-use developments are chosen by communities for a variety of reasons—some see it as a way to incorporate a mix of housing types on a small scale while enhancing traditional town character; others see it as a vehicle for revitalizing struggling areas and catalyst for economic development. As this trend continues, here is a look at what mixed-use developments are and their benefits.
 

Improving connectivity and sustainability through pedestrian bridge design
Bridges play a critical role in society and in our communities, they are more than just simple crossing points or entranceways. They have the potential to be iconic works of functional art, direct and purposeful expressions of structure, and can connect people, places, and nature to allow our communities to function and thrive. Providing a safe and efficient way for pedestrians to cross over traffic, rivers, or other obstacles is just the beginning. Beautifully designed pedestrian bridges also enrich and enhance their surroundings.

Reserve fund studies and smart buildings
Buildings are among the largest energy consumers in the world. Advances have been made to turn conventional buildings into smart buildings to allow greater supervision and control of the energy resources. Improvements to energy management strategies achieve significant savings.

Advancing sustainable building practices decreases building energy consumption and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. With all the costs of running and maintaining a property, how can building owners and operators maintain reserve funds substantial enough to accommodate the unexpected, while increasing energy efficiency and maintaining occupant comfort? Planning a series of practical and efficient upgrades over the reserve fund investment horizon optimizes returns due to good decision making.