Building Innovation Into How We Work and Live

The construction industry is changing rapidly. The introduction of new materials, new technology, and new methods of construction has given rise to a new generation of buildings.

Commercial buildings are adapting to the needs of the modern-day office worker. From private offices to open-plan spaces, they are turning into a hub for creativity and innovation.

Residential buildings are also adapting to the needs of today’s family and their lifestyles. From urban living to suburban living, we are seeing more diverse types of homes being built for different kinds of families.

Sustainability in Building Design

Buildings are also becoming more sustainable with the rise of green building practices. More and more commercial properties are incorporating solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and other eco-friendly features like EV (Electric Vehicle) parking/charging stations in their lots.

Green construction is the expected standard for homebuyers, renters, and commercial tenants. And though at the present, many sustainable and eco-friendly features remain a luxury, despite their long-term savings — this will change over the next decade as Ecotech and sustainable construction become more mainstream.

And finally, Greenscaping, the practice of outfitting rooftops with plant coverings and small parks, is now commonplace in urban centers around the world.

Healthier

Using hemp for insulation is seen as a healthier option for building construction since it consists of 51 percent plant fibers and 49 percent plastics and chemicals, along with non-toxic bonding agents and fire treatment. Hemp insulation is an excellent option in that it proves to be safer in fire resistance and superior in energy efficiency.

The permeability of hemp insulation allows vapor to travel through the insulation, preventing condensation. This means mold is less likely to develop in the building over time. 

Bipolar ionization technology cleans the air in buildings by releasing those ions through the ventilation systems. This makes air particles cluster to become big enough for the filter to catch them, thereby purifying the air.

Safer

Nest Protect has uses in both residential and commercial settings. It detects smoke and fire but also carbon monoxide. Instead of beeping, a human voice will tell you where the incident is taking place. They are wirelessly interconnected and send alerts to other Nest Protect units in the building, so you'll get a warning no matter what room you're in.

Alerts come from the ceiling and a phone app, which means multiple users can be alerted whether you're in the building or not.

The move to LED bulbs for outdoor parking improves safety by distributing their light via a multi-point design, giving them an evenly distributed light pattern on surfaces. LED lights fade slowly over time, avoiding the sudden dimming or even extinguishing the light that may occur with old-fashioned lighting. These LED lights for parking areas and structures not only function by making sure parking structures are well lit but can also make them more efficient and cost-effective.

Thanks to ever-improving technologies, commercial and residential buildings are becoming safer and more environmentally friendly. With builders making smarter choices for safety like LED parking lot lighting and innovative fire detection and notification, people can feel safer in their workplace or when visiting businesses. And they’ll also like the fact that their company is taking sustainability seriously, too.

When you’re looking to buy or sell property in the Plymouth, MN area, look no further than Scales Real Estate. With a team of experienced, licensed real estate agents, you can rely on a proven track record and get results quickly.