Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/607779
10 | DECEMBER 2015 Graziani + Corazza Architects Inc. It's this ability to transform its focus in response to a client's vision that has resulted in tremendous growth for the company, not just in Ontario, but across the world. "We use acquisitions as a means to grow our geographic reach and service offer- ings as we become more niche-focused on particular regions, service offerings and types of clients," says Biase. "As our team expands so do our projects; the attention to detail and articulate design become more advanced, our client list continues to expand and our projects become more personal." However, it hasn't all been plain sailing. Like most architectural firms here in Canada, Graziani + Corazza has had to overcome adversity. "Given the competitive architectural market naturally there is the desire to produce more drawings, to execute more projects and to provide more services. Our design team allows for us to stay on top of today's latest designs and as the trends change so do our ideas, our colours and our shapes," says Biase. "Change is absolutely necessary for the survival of individuals and organiza- tions," adds Graziani. "The question isn't whether or not to implement change but how to maintain a graceful progression." Using strategic design, creative and inno- vative thinking, the team work closely to ensure each venture rises far above cli- ent expectations. In a world focused on preventing environmental degradation the team at Graziani + Corazza passionately pursue the creation of real-world sustainable and iconic architecture. Take the 78-storey commercial/residential high-rise Aura in Toronto for exam- ple. Here the team created contemporary architectural language that gives cohe- sion between different typologies. "The result is a restrained architectural esthetic that directs attention towards the details. The project includes a cultural centre, a commercial building and residences with all ground floor areas containing retail activities, located on the northeast corner it accesses below and above-grade shop- ping and anchors the pedestrian entry to the Park from Yonge Street," says Corazza. For Graziani + Corazza environmental accountability is just one element of sus- tainable development. Another is building communities and giving back. In fact, every year the team participates in the Heart & Stroke Ride for Heart. "It's some- thing we've done for the past eight years," explains Corazza. "It gives us a chance to do something we feel passionate about in hopes of raising awareness and joining people and communities together." For Graziani + Corazza the future of architecture lies in thinking holistically about where we live: "Envision a community that accommodates future growth as well as protects historic neighbourhoods and structures. Future growth and development should adhere to a high level of construction quality and design integrity. Historic neighbourhoods should maintain the spirit and character of the past through reten- tion or adaptive reuse of existing structures and conformance to themes and details already present in the neighbourhood. Connecting various land uses and landmarks should be a comprehensive, sustainable network of linkages that enhance both the access and appearance of the community," concludes Graziani. A Our dedication to achieving a fresh architectural response to our client's brief informs our reputation. " " Aura Aura Legacy