LM Architectural Group

At LM Architectural Group | Environmental Space Planning (LM-ESP), sustainability isn’t a trend —it’s a way of working, thinking, and partnering. Celebrating their 70th anniversary in 2024, this Winnipeg-based firm continues to prove that every project is an opportunity to lead and collaborate in improving our environment. Many of their projects have greatly benefited from a highly customized, best-for-project approach to sustainability, which may mean the project isn’t targeting one specific industry leading benchmark or certification, and instead combines diverse principles and practices from many sustainability programs with insights from whole project teams to help achieve a wide array of desired outcomes and targets.

Their guiding philosophy is simple yet powerful: environmental responsibility is part of everyday practice. Through the lenses of environmental, economic, and social sustainability, LM-ESP’s team of 45+ professionals empower clients to make informed choices that reduce environmental impacts, enhance energy efficiency, and foster healthier communities.

With 15+ LEED Certified and Green Globes projects completed, they know a sustainable design approach is not one-size-fits-all. Strategies are tailored to the unique context of each project, blending industry-leading frameworks with custom solutions for optimal outcomes.

One of the firm’s most important priorities is helping clients fully assess and be informed of the impact of sustainable design choices. “Each client has their own sustainability goals and priorities, unique to their project and an organization’s values, standards and commitments,” explains Principal Corey Greenham. “Our role is to uncover client priorities early on and together work towards design decision-making that adds meaningful and lasting value.” Whether that’s long-term operational savings, low/zero-carbon solutions, or meeting funding-linked energy targets, LM-ESP ensures these goals are addressed from day one.

Their work on the Neepawa Health Centre is a prime example. The 180,000-sf facility is slated to become the first all-electric health centre in southern Manitoba. The project’s custom sustainability roadmap, developed by a collaborative project team and led by Footprint as the Sustainability Consultant, drew from LEED, Manitoba Green Building Program, Green Globes, FitWel, WELL, and climate resiliency principles, showing what’s possible when diverse approaches are integrated into a single project.

For those striving to make buildings more sustainable, LM-ESP offers a few key insights into strategies that have worked well for them:

  • Prioritize design strategies that deliver the greatest environmental, social, and economic impact
  • Engage a diverse range of voices early to spark innovation
  • Invest in professional development opportunities to build internal capacity and foster leadership in sustainable design
  • Collaborate with clients to highlight the tangible benefits of sustainable design
  • Support the health and well-being of your team.

The firm doesn’t just design sustainable spaces—they live their values. In their heritage East Exchange office, they’ve incorporated low-VOC materials, recycled content, and repurposed elements. Staff carpool, bike, and walk to work, and the firm is even procuring bicycles for team use. Professional development is a priority, with multiple LEED APs, Green Associates, and a Certified Passive House Designer on staff. They also invest in their team’s well-being through a Health & Wellness Program, embrace diversity through inclusive hiring and student programs, and support local suppliers to strengthen Manitoba’s economy.

Looking ahead, LM-ESP sees a major opportunity for Manitoba’s building sector in tracking and sharing the long-term results of sustainable design. “Evidence-based stories from our own communities can inspire and educate, helping more clients make informed, impactful choices,” says Greenham.

From award-winning schools, civic buildings, and corporate workplaces to cutting-edge healthcare facilities and more, LM-ESP continues to show how thoughtful design, collaboration, and a project specific tailored approach can shape a more sustainable Manitoba.