In the field of architecture, every project is a projection into the future. Although our practice is firmly rooted in the present and guided by extreme precision, it must always anticipate the decades to come.

How will a material evolve over time? Will functional solutions be flexible enough to adapt to society’s rapid changes? These technical questions are only part of the decisions an architect faces daily. Today, we invite you to explore the inner workings of the modern architect’s work organization and the principles that link their routine to a concept as elusive as ‘the future’.

The Legacy of the Pandemic: The Virtual Office

The pandemic has transformed work practices, and architecture has not been exempted. Remote work has become a viable solution for a significant portion of work tasks. Indeed, visiting a construction site or an existing building for inspection requires actual travel, but practices such as producing plans, meeting with clients, or coordinating technically between specialists from different fields can now be done remotely with the same quality. This reduces travel, and consequently, pollution and traffic congestion. Thus, we can influence environmental quality not only through the object of our work but also through the optimal organization of our production processes.

Finding Balance Between the Individual, Family, and Work

One of the consequences of the aspect described above is a new balance between the individual, family, and work. Within the same paradigm of creating a quality environment, we can speak not only of developing the built framework but also of the social environment. The time saved from unnecessary commutes between the office and home can be dedicated to sports, education, quality time with partners, children, and loved ones. Yes, this is also architecture! We build ourselves, we weave social bonds, and ultimately, we contribute to a more balanced and healthier society in the future.

Productive Activity as a Human Need

To develop long-term plans and ensure the sustainability of production processes in the fast-paced modern world, we must consider emotional health, among other things.

Professional burnout is a widespread phenomenon that affects the mental health and productivity of workers, both in Canada and globally. A study conducted in July 2024 revealed that nearly one in four Canadian workers (24%) reported experiencing burnout (https://www.mhrc-rsmc.ca/psychological-safety-and-wellness-2024).

Each week, approximately 500,000 Canadian workers are absent due to psychological health issues, according to the Mental Health Commission of Canada (https://www.ledevoir.com/special-issues/2024-03-30/work-world).

As we build the future, we must adopt practices today that will reduce the severity of this problem. To support this hypothesis, it is essential to give meaning to our actions and serve the community. For example, we can cite the Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan, 1985, 2000) and Jahoda’s study (1982) on work and mental health.

Passing on Experience and Creativity to New Generations

One of the productive and meaningful areas of action that LPS supports through tangible measures is knowledge sharing. A concrete example of this transmission is artistic and architecture workshops, where experimentation and learning through practice allow young people to develop essential skills.

Training children in observation, experimentation with different materials, technical creativity, and the integration of various fields of knowledge enables the cultivation of holistic personalities. This is a precious legacy that we can pass on to them so that they become the architects and thinkers of tomorrow.

An Integrative Approach to Life, Not Just Buildings

Architecture is not just about construction, but a comprehensive approach to life and community living. This vision is not limited to statements of intent; it translates into concrete and effective commitment. By reconciling innovation, sustainability, and social impact, we can shape a better future for everyone.

Each architectural project thus contributes a stone to the edifice of a more adaptive, creative, and just society. By looking to the future while acting in the present, we lay the foundations for a more harmonious world.

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