Discover how GGA’s sustainable design approach shapes spaces for people and the planet. In this interview, Meghan shares her insights into the future of sustainable architecture.
Written by Courtney Jones
At GGA, sustainability isn’t just part of what we do, it’s fundamental to our approach. From design to collaboration, it’s the foundation of every decision we make to shape a better built environment. To explore how this mindset translates into real-world impact, we sat down with Meghan Larway, one of our Managers of Design, to hear her perspective on creating spaces that serve both people and the planet.
“If I do nothing else in my job, it’s to create safe spaces where everyone can be their authentic selves and feel that their contributions are just as valuable as the person sitting next to them. That’s how I understand my role.”
Meghan’s passion for sustainability is infectious. She lights up when talking about its potential to transform not just buildings but the lives of those who experience them. For her, sustainability is more than just a concept—it’s a driving force that fuels her work every day.
Meghan’s Approach to Sustainability in Architecture
Meghan sees every design decision as an opportunity to make a positive impact.
“Every line we draw has the potential to shape the lives of the people and communities we serve.”
That means addressing both immediate and long-term sustainability needs. From promoting human health and climate resilience to sparking joy and social connection, design becomes a tool for enhancing lives. At GGA, that work is done in close partnership with clients, consultants, and project teams to ensure that each project meets community needs both now and in the future.
“It’s about being intentional with every move—designing spaces that are kind to the planet and deeply rooted in the needs of people.”
Passive Design and its Role in Sustainability
“Passive design strategies—and making them early—are the most powerful steps toward resilient design.”
Sustainability doesn’t have to be flashy. Some of the most impactful decisions are the quiet ones made early in the design process—like orienting a building to maximize daylight or shaping a site plan to respond to wind pressure. These context-sensitive choices reduce energy use, improve durability, and lower costs over a project’s lifespan.
“The smallest decisions we can make are also the most passive—and they start at the very beginning of a project. It’s a powerful thing to get right from day one.”
Sustainability with People at the Core
To Meghan, sustainable design isn’t about checking boxes. It’s about understanding people, place, and purpose.
GGA’s process is rooted in listening. Every project is unique, and sustainability means different things to different people. Whether in cultural context, environmental conditions, or social priorities, the team takes an integrated approach to uncover creative, human-centred solutions.
“Good design is sustainable design. It should be for everyone.”
Her voice reflects a deep conviction when she talks about this work—because she’s seen the difference it can make.
Case Study: Palliser Lane
A standout example of this philosophy is the Palliser Lane development in Canmore. Developed alongside Canmore Community Housing, this 144-unit below-market housing project addresses the critical lack of housing in Canmore and is designed to perform 46% better than the NECB baseline.
“Not only do we have a building that will perform better than any other building with the same characteristics, but it also has a more resilient sentiment about design—one that addresses what a community like Canmore truly needs in terms of catering to a diverse population.”
The project exemplifies sustainability across environmental, social, and economic pillars: reduced emissions, long-term affordability, inclusive community-building, and a perpetually affordable land-use designation that ensures lasting impact. Construction is starting soon, and the GGA team couldn’t be prouder.
Rethinking Sustainability: Beyond the Checklist and the Myths
There’s a persistent misconception that sustainable design is reserved for big-budget projects or high-profile buildings. Meghan challenges this notion daily, emphasizing that sustainability isn’t confined to specific project types, scales, or budgets Instead, it’s a mindset that should be integrated into all design work, regardless of the project’s scope.
“Good design—design that is resilient in the face of climate change, creates healthy and safe environments for all users, and contributes to the long-term economic viability of our communities—is fundamental to our approach to every project.”
This philosophy is central to GGA’s mission to create a more sustainable and equitable future for all.
While sustainability frameworks and certifications are valuable, Meghan believes we need to move beyond treating sustainability as an “add-on.” It’s not about perfection but continually evolving the conversation, sharing knowledge, and making thoughtful, intentional choices at every step.
“Checklists are a good start, but they aren’t the destination. The world is changing. Our communities are changing. Our thinking should evolve with it.”
Her words reflect both urgency and optimism that by working together, we can push the industry forward and make a lasting, positive impact.
What Needs More Attention
Sustainability conversations often focus on operational energy, but Meghan highlights the growing importance of embodied carbon—the emissions generated by the materials we use and how they’re produced. While it’s widely recognized that buildings contribute roughly 30-40% of global carbon emissions, the specific impact of construction materials and their manufacturing is less commonly understood.
“We’re excited to be working with low-carbon and carbon-sequestering materials, especially in office-to-residential conversions. These choices can have a huge impact.”
She believes that to drive meaningful change, the industry must continue to move forward through collaboration, shared insight, and inclusive, resilient thinking.
A Collective Responsibility
For Meghan, sustainable design is fundamentally about people. It’s about creating safe, beautiful, and resilient spaces that not only support communities today but also prepare them for the future.
“No candle is dimmer by lighting another. Sharing knowledge leads to better solutions for everyone.”
Sustainability isn’t about chasing perfection; it’s about making meaningful, lasting progress. It’s about embedding thoughtful decisions into every design, knowing that even the slightest change can shape someone’s experience and contribute to a more resilient world. By choosing better materials, we reduce emissions and create healthier, more joyful spaces. Listening to every voice on the team fosters more inclusive, innovative solutions, and leading with empathy ensures that every space is designed to allow people to show up authentically and contribute meaningfully.
Whether designing healthy buildings, championing affordable housing, or exploring new materials, GGA is committed to moving the conversation forward together.