Dear friends, clients and partners,
I wanted to take the time to invite you to sign the declaration of the Quebec Order of Architects (OAQ) requesting the adoption of a National Architecture Policy. This policy is fully consistent with our vision of universal design, so I ask you to support it and invite others to do so as well.
What will this policy serve?
As stated by the OAQ, an architecture policy, as those that exist in several other countries, would enable us to « collectively acquire an architecture that contributes to our well-being and our respect for the environment, and to the achievement of our aspirations. »
It will also serve to:
- Raise Quebecers’ awareness of architectural quality
- Ensure that our government adopts best practices
- Put citizens at the heart of the thought process in architectural and urban development projects
- Generate economic benefits and remarkable achievements in all Quebec regions
- Support municipalities wishing to improve the architectural quality on their territory
To help us go further in terms of universal design, a National Architecture Policy is necessary. It would allow, for instance, to establish performance criteria and financial incentives for building owners, as well as to develop certification programs that include universal accessibility among criteria for sustainability and aesthetics.
« Decisions about architectural projects must be inspired by a global vision. They must be taken in a perspective of sustainable development, with the participation of the population and in a context of ethical and transparent procedures, » argues the OAQ.
All Quebecers are invited to support the OAQ’s declaration, for which it has been campaigning since 2014. As the OAQ puts it: « Architecture is omnipresent, it concerns us all! »
Thank you!
Sophie Lanctôt, Executive Director