blog 6. Seeing the Forest for the Trees
Climate Change. Environmental footprint. Energy. All are buzzwords or popular memes these days and we often find ourselves using these words in social conversations. We all do our part by using less plastic and with habitual recycling but often times the results are not readily apparent. Where I see an obvious impact is in the protection of our urban and private trees. Not only are trees good for the environment, but many studies have revealed that they are also good for our physical and mental health.
There’s been an urgency across all municipalities as they attempt to reorganize their policies to address the protection of trees. Sadly, our clients have had to bear the financial brunt as approval fees and securities have gone up to match more stringent regulations. Fortunately though, they also see the value overall in a responsible stewardship of our public and private lands.
I am thankful that our clients appreciate our efforts as well. Even before forestry municipal approvals moved to the forefront, we have been designing new houses and additions with consideration to the surrounding trees on the property. We believe in a relationship between the built architecture and its environment and we have been mindful of our architectural designs that extend beyond to create outdoor spaces.
We all grumble about all the changes to municipal polices. I complain about the extra steps in the permit process but at the end of the day when owners, architects and municipalities work together, we all benefit.
Emelie Vea - Graduate Architect