A Sustainable Campus

The north elevation. By using passive solar design, indigenous materials, geothermal energy, enhanced air quality, energy and water efficiency, and sustainable landscape design, the project stands for the idea that resources are finite and that building design should respond to this fact. The College conducts tours for students, professionals, and the community to explain the sustainable features of the building

Library/classroom building combines sustainable architectural and landscape practices

The goal of Langara College is to create a sustainable campus that demonstrates environmental responsibility and stewardship for the student body and the community. (more…)

Water and energy conservation highlight mixed commercial / residential

The master plan required an almost full build-out of the site, a former parking lot. Located in an older single-family and store front neighbourhood, The Vento uses sensitive massing and varied exterior finishing materials. Along with 100% of the rainwater falling on the site, water from sinks, showers and bathtubs is stored and re-used for toilet flushing and site irrigation - the first project in Alberta to be granted approval for such. Moreover, the project has achived energy efficiency of 47% as compared to the MNECB.

The Vento is a three-storey mixed use development of 3,613 sq.m, with retail space and two affordable housing units on the ground floor, and 22 two-storey suites above. The project is part of the first phase in the comprehensive redevelopment of a former hospital site in suburban Calgary. (more…)

Passive and active measures a model for small scale design

The east elevation and main entrance

Ball’s Falls Conservation Area is part of the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority’s Nodal Park System - providing public education and awareness of the Niagara Escarpment. The new Centre for Conservation will serve as a public entry point to the 20 Valley World Biosphere Reserve and the preserved heritage settlement. (more…)