Sustainable engineering firm shows how it’s done in LEED Platinum headquarters

In the design of Enermodal’s new headquarters, A Grander View, the primary goal was to create a LEED Platinum office that would be the most energy-efficient in Canada. Since its completion in late 2009, energy consumption for the 2150 m2 building is 69 kWh/m2 of energy per year. This was very close to the design energy modelling predictions of 65 kWh/m2. This compares favourably with the Canadian average of almost 400 kWh/m2. Water consumption is a metered 82 % lower than for a conventional building – exceeding predictions by 9%. This level of performance was largely accomplished through an integrated mechanical system, although building form, orientation and materials all played a part.

By Stephen Carpenter

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Niagara Regional Headquarters

The new building creates an urban street presence at a suburban intersection.

The tight budget and schedule requirements of a Design Build contract, combined with the sustainable agenda of a LEED® municipal client set this project apart from others of similar scope and scale. The four-storey office building is an extension to the existing Thorold City Hall, and consolidates operational services for the Niagara Region. (more…)

Landmark LEED Platinum project scores highest in world for a cold climate building while providing occupant comfort

The east [with handprint graphic] and south elevations feature Alucobond and zinc cladding respectively - durable finishes applied as a rainscreen.

With the engaging hand print decals decorating its east and west elevations, the Child Development Centre has quickly become a symbol of the University of Calgary’s commitment to sustainable development and occupant comfort, helped in no small part by its LEED Platinum rating. (more…)

Major industry player takes a stand for sustainable design

Explicit expression of concrete, steel and glass in the south elevation illustrates the company’s primary focus on construction. The Centennial Learning Centre becomes the new front door to an existing campus of company buildings.

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A corporate headquarters must be more than simply shelter from the storm. Ideally, it is a living, breathing advertisement conveying the image, values and philosophy of its owner to the world. (more…)

Integrated design meets challenges of tight site and fast-track schedule at University of British Columbia

Interconnected floor space creates a secondary atrium for natural ventilation. Interior millwork is formaldehyde-free MDF

by Geoff McDonell

Completed in June 2005, the five-storey, 8,744 sq.m Fred Kaiser Building houses expanded facilities for the Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering, and the offices of the Dean of Applied Science. Nearly 700 faculty, researchers, staff and students are accommodated in the flexible laboratory spaces, classrooms, seminar rooms and offices. (more…)

Modest building reflects philosophy of earth-friendly products

Typical in size of so many industrial park buildings found throughout Canada, the green building qualities and architectural merit of the Accu-lift™ Flooring Systems building sets the standard for the future

by Christopher Simmonds

TAccu-Lift™ Flooring Systems in Ottawa sells and installs environmentally-friendly flooring. Its new 8,300sf retail store and warehouse has a bright, open and efficient work environment that showcases the company and its commitment to conservation principles. (more…)

Landmark research facility achieves Canada’s first LEED Gold rating

The design distinguishes the office and laboratory blocks

by Ivo Taller

The 233,000sf BC Cancer Agency’s Research Centre in Vancouver is the first facility of its kind in Canada to achieve a LEED Gold rating accomplished through heat recovery, natural and high-efficiency lighting, material conservation, and waste management, among other measures. (more…)