Adera’s PURA development achieves Fitwel Certification

PURA, Surrey’s first sustainable mass timber housing project, has achieved Fitwel Certification. With this achievement, PURA is one of only eight multi-family residential buildings in B.C. with a 1-star Fitwel Certification.

Located in Surrey’s Central West Village, PURA is comprised of 248 one- and two-bedroom homes across two six-storey buildings. Designed as a transit-oriented development, PURA aims to provide high-quality, accessible homes for first-time homebuyers and young families.

Fitwel, a global certification system dedicated to enhancing health for all, focuses on promoting the health and well-being of building occupants. Through its use of specialized scorecards, Fitwel ensures that buildings adhere to and maintain health-focused protocols and amenities. Buildings certified by Fitwel benefit from strategies that place the well-being of residents at the core, leading to improved physical and community health, increased occupant safety, and overall well-being.

Adera, the project’s developer, explained that the Fitwel Certification for PURA underscores their commitment to sustainable construction and wellness-oriented design. By leveraging the innovative SmartWood technology, PURA exemplifies Adera’s commitment to building healthier, stronger, and more beautiful homes for future generations.

“Achieving Fitwel Certification for PURA is a significant milestone for Adera, marking our commitment to creating healthier and more sustainable living environments,” said Sarah Bingham, vice president, development & sustainability at Adera. “This certification reflects our dedication to integrating wellness-focused design and building practices that enhance the well-being of our residents. We are proud to lead the way with our first Fitwel-Certified project and look forward to continuing this journey in future developments.”

Adera officials explained that PURA’s design harmoniously blends natural light, green spaces, and health-promoting features such as accessible recreational areas, secure bicycle storage, and a well-equipped fitness centre. By using sustainable materials, PURA ensures superior indoor environmental quality. Every unit boasts access to green spaces and natural scenery, while rooftop and courtyard green spaces further enrich residents’ well-being by fostering seamless integration with nature.

“Adera’s pioneering work with the PURA Residential Development exemplifies the importance of prioritizing both the health of people and the planet,” said Joanna Frank, president and CEO of CfAD, operator of Fitwel. “As one of the first multi-family residential buildings in British Columbia to achieve Fitwel Certification, PURA sets a new standard for integrating occupant health and wellness and serves as an inspiration for other developments. We applaud Adera’s efforts and are thrilled to have them join us in the healthy building movement.”

Adera stated that its commitment to advancing health through PURA is evident in several thoughtful design and construction practices. Brightly lit stairwells encourage physical activity by making stairs an appealing alternative to elevators. At PURA, superior air quality is ensured through the use of low-emission materials, operable windows, mold-resistant materials, and a tobacco- and smoke-free environment, reflecting a strong commitment to health and comfort for all residents. Community initiatives and programs are also designed to foster resident connections, enhancing overall well-being.