Sabmag48digital

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AWARDS

2015 SPECIAL ISSUE

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BUILDING

Issue number 48 | Summer 2015 | PM40024961 | $6

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sabMag - SUMMER 2015

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COLOUR IS TRANSPARENT Colour at Work pops with possibility.

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sabMag - Summer 2015

Architecture Canada

9

SPECIAL SECTION uuuuuu Winning projects of the 2015 Canadian Green Building Awards:

• Surrey Civic Centre [p. 11]

• Halifax Central Library [p. 17]

• Mountain Equipment Co-op Head Office [p. 22]

• Kwayatsut [p. 26]

• Sechelt Hospital Expansion and Renovations [p. 32]

• Earth Sciences Building [p. 36]

• George Brown College Waterfront Health Science Centre [p. 40]

• Beechwood Deep Energy Retrofit [p. 42]

IAN GRE D A

AWARDS

2015 Sponsors

BUILDING

Politics and Architecture

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For more on the Award-winning projects in this issue

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Best issue bronze award 2013 International excellence in business-to-business publishing

See Summer 2015, issue 48

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Award Winner

46 VIEWPOINT Delayed adoption of LEED v4, Now What?

Planetarium Rio Tinto Alcan

issuE DON’T MISS next Fall 2014 Barbara Mitchell Centre - Green Globes-certified project has high public appeal, cuts energy use by one third

Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium - Striking design of new Montreal Planetarium includes vegetated roof, geothermal, and air displacement ventilation

Design Practice: Social Sustainability as a Driver of Design The inter-relationships between environmental, economic and social issues

Sustainable Suburbs Re-thinking conventions, re-imagining infrastructure

Cover: Winning projects of the 2015 Canadian Green Building Awards Right: Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium sabMag - SUMMER 2015

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sabMag - Summer 2015

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editor’s note

Dedicated to high-performance building LEED EDUCATION PROVIDER

Member Canada Green Building Council

2015

Canadian Green Building Awards

SABMag is a proud member and media partner of the CaGBC, and works closely with them on content for each issue.

VISIT www.sabmagazine.com

In this issue we present the winners of the

Publisher Don Griffith 800-520-6281, ext. 304, dgriffith@sabmagazine.com

2015 Canadian Green Building Awards, a col-

MARKETING MANAGER Denis Manseau

Green Building Council. While British Colum-

800-520-6281, ext. 303, dmanseau@sabmagazine.com

bia took five out of eight awards this year,

Editor Jim Taggart, FRAIC 604-874-0195, architext@telus.net

there is nonetheless representation from coast

laboration between SABMag and the Canada

to coast.

Senior Account Manager Patricia Abbas 416-438-7609, pabbas8@gmail.com Graphic Design Carine De Pauw 800-520-6281, ext. 308, cdepauw@sabmagazine.com

The diverse entries submitted this year confirmed that the baseline for building perforphoto: ROY GROGAN

mance continues to improve across all sectors, and the winners were all pursuing at least LEED Gold certification, or in the case of the

Beechwood House in Toronto, Passive House performance. In addition to this

Published by

www.janam.net

single-family house, it was good to see one other private sector winner - the

81 Leduc St.,Gatineau,Qc J8X 3A7 800-520-6281, ext.304, 819-778-5040 Fax: 819-595-8553

Mountain Equipment Coop [MEC] Head Office in Vancouver [a new genera-

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tion heavy timber building that is pursuing LEED Platinum].

Another winning project showcasing the innovative use of contemporary materials was the Earth Sciences Building [ESB] at the University of British Columbia, a technically sophisticated and aesthetically refined structure which opens itself to the surrounding campus.

ESB’s concern for connection to context and MEC’s careful attention to the design of uplifting interior spaces are two facets of what is arguably the common

ISSN 1911-4230 Copyright by Janam Publications Inc. All rights reserved. Contents may not be reprinted or reproduced without written permission.

Views expressed are those of the authors exclusively.

theme of this year’s winners - social sustainability. While we are still trying to pin down a definition of this term, projects such as the Halifax Central Library, Toronto’s George Brown College Waterfront Campus, the Surrey Civic Centre

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and Sechelt Hospital in Sechelt, BC speak to a nationwide concern that build-

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ings should not only perform well, but also foster community engagement, interdisciplinary collaboration and social interaction.

This is without question a healthy trend in Canadian architecture, and one ap-

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preciated by all of this years’ jury: Darryl Condon, John Crace, Braden Kurczak and Megan Torza. We would like to extend our thanks to them, and to our sponsors Uponor, Interface and the Canadian Precast Prestressed Concrete Institute who made this year’s awards program possible.

- Jim Taggart, FRAIC Editor

We thank our 2015 sponsors

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Politics and Architecture Architecture Canada | RAIC Report

It

federal

government

that tion or support for this project includes many of the country’s

the cumulative work of genera-

leading public figures and com-

tions of the nation's most tal-

mentators such as Supreme

parliamentary and judicial pre-

ented architects, urban design-

Court Chief Justice Beverley

cincts. This planning process

ers and landscape architects.

McLachlin, the Globe and Mail’s

A letter to the Globe and Mail

Jeffrey Simpson and the CBC’s Rick Mercer.

by

signed by 17 past presidents of

a consortium led by DTAH

the Canadian Bar Association

The Canadian Institute of

Architects, referred to as the

called it “ill-conceived...to add

Planners, the Canadian Society

Long Term Vision and Plan.

the

The

disheartening

deliberately choose to disfigure

currently finds expression in

By Allan Teramura Royal Architectural Institute of Canada [RAIC] Regional Director, Ontario North, East and Nunavut

is

Canada's government would

award-winning

plan

an imposing sculpture signal-

of Landscape Architects, and

is

ing a strong political message,

the

intended for a new building

controversial or not, literally in

Architects have issued public

for the federal court. This

the face of the very institution

statements.

building

which is the final arbiter in

In

the

plan,

would

the

site

complete

a

Ontario

Association

of

Both the RAIC and the indi-

is proceeding with plans to

“Judicial Triad,” consisting of

erect a National Memorial to

the Supreme Court of Canada

the Victims of Communism

to the north, flanked by the

stand

in the judicial precinct beside

Justice Building to the east, and

power of symbols.

Parliament

a federal court on the parcel to

It’s difficult to find a positive

do not come along every day,

think

the west. It is meant to comple-

side to this story for the archi-

at a local level there are many

about the need for such a com-

ment the “Parliamentary Triad”

tectural community, except that

opportunities for architects to

memoration in the nation’s

of the Centre, East, and West

the memorial project has trig-

be advocates. If there is a posi-

capital, the choice of site is

Blocks; together they create

gered a national public debate

tive outcome of this contro-

regrettable. One hundred years

a cultural landscape that rep-

on architecture and urbanism.

versy, it would be that more

of urban design thinking has

resents Canada’s core demo-

informed the growth of the

cratic institutions.

Whatever

Hill one

in

Ottawa.

might

vidual architects who expressed

Canada of disputes ....”

Clearly, the lawyers underthe

significance

and

The range of people who have expressed either opposi-

their concerns were cited in the many media reports. While issues with a national profile

architects speak out when they see the public interest at risk.

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sabMag - Summer 2015

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events June 9, Vancouver CPCI seminar: Stand and Deliver – Buildings that Deliver on Energy Cost Reduction www.cpci.ca/seminars

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Profile: Third largest LEED Platinum building in Canada 2014

30 Victoria

It was with great pride that Multivesco proceeded to the inauguration of the LEED Canada Core and Shell Platinum Certification of 30 Victoria, Gatineau [Quebec], October 16, 2014.

This new LEED Platinum building [500,000 ft2] with its innovative rainwater recycling system, its geothermal system, its unique insulation standard, its automated temperature control and windows as well as its interior design promoting the optimization of natural light is a flagship of sustainable construction, and it marks the beginning of a new era in “green” building standards.

“If today, 30 Victoria is a beautiful building and a symbol green building, I can assure you that when we started construction, we had our doubts. Besides, when Public Works and Government Services Canada [PWGSC] announced that they required a LEED Gold building, we took it so seriously that we have exceeded initial requirements to finally receive the highest certification in Canada, LEED Platinum”, explains Mr. Camille Villeneuve, Chairman of the Board of Directors, at the press release October 16, 2014.

This class A building meets the highest standards of the federal government in terms of office space for its multiple features, its versatility and the full range of its services. Its ultramodern design, its LEED Platinum certification and its location in the heart of downtown Hull [Gatineau] make it a place to be for business development.

About Multivesco For over 40 years, Multivesco is a leader in the field of real estate development. Its mission is to provide comprehensive real estate solutions to its customers. This new building is added to Multivesco’s property portfolio [office buildings], reaching nearly 1.5 million square feet.

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www.inlinefiberglass.com 1.866.566.5656 MEMBER/MEMBRE

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AWARDS 2015

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The eight winning projects that follow in this special section are among the most exemplary of sustainably-designed buildings in Canada

C O JE T S PRN BUILDING

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NING N I W

A NATIONAL PROGRAM OF SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE & BUILDING MAGAZINE AND THE CANADA GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL

JUry members: Megan Torza, OAA, MRAIC, LEED AP BD+C, Partner, DTAH Toronto

Thanks to our 2015 sponsors John Crace, MNSAA, FRAIC, LEED AP BD+C, Principal, Practice Leader Sustainability, Architecture49, Halifax

Braden Kurczak, P.Eng, LEED AP BD+C, LEED Fellow, Former manager, Business Development, Buildings – Sustainability MMM Group Limited, Waterloo

www.sabmagazine.com Visit the Awards section of our website for more on the winning projects.

Darryl Condon, AIBC, AAA, OAA, FRAIC, LEED® AP, Managing Principal, Hughes Condon Marler Architects, Vancouver [photos: Roy Grogan]

sabMag - SUMMER 2015

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sabMag - Summer 2015

SURREY CIVIC CENTRE Surrey, BC Jury comment A bold and dramatic building that is nonetheless refined and elegant.

A fitting statement for a municipality that is forging a new identity based on the consideration of sustainability at all levels - including transit, civic and community space, and the transparency and accessibility of government. This is a building that will draw the community in.

Its performance metrics are equally impressive.

1

Designed to LEED Gold standard, the new Surrey City Hall and Plaza

Originally an agricultural region, transformed into a suburb,

house the City’s municipal government and anchor a vibrant new urban

then into a city – Surrey is now the second largest municipality in

Civic Centre. Central to City Hall’s public role is its light-filled atrium, a gath-

British Columbia, with a rapidly-growing multicultural population.

ering and event space at the heart of the 16,500m2 building. It provides

Civic engagement, social interaction and sustainable stewardship

physical and symbolic connections between the Plaza and the city beyond

were the primary goals of the project, addressed through the ori-

and expresses open and democratic governance. A dramatic roof canopy,

entation of the building in the master plan of the Civic Centre and

lined with local Douglas fir, provides east and south sun shading.

through the formal organization and design qualities of City Hall.

Sustainable design strategies include a geothermal heat exchange sys-

Addressing all of the community needs, the new Civic Complex is

tem that provides winter heating and summer cooling. The success of this

a cultural, educational and urban centre piece providing excep-

installation has initiated planning for a city-wide district energy system. The

tional and seamless interior and exterior spaces.

Plaza invigorates public life with its multi-level green terraces, rows of shade trees, and connects the new City Hall with Surrey Central Library, a future performing arts centre, high-density mixed-use developments and the SkyTrain rapid-transit system.

The grand outdoor space is the primary gathering hub for community celebrations and special events. The tiered Plaza provides views, visual variety and informal seating along its broad steps. The outdoor living wall is a physical display of the environmental stewardship and sustainable responsibility that Surrey's municipal government wants to promote [1].

sabMag - SUMMER 2015

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Urban plan

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1 Surrey City Hall 2 Commercial future development 3 Mixed use development under construction 4 Skytrain station Surrey Central 5 2050 Master plan mixed use future development 6 Future development along University Drive

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1 7 6

8

9

7 8 9

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City Centre Library Civic Centre Plaza Future development and Performing Arts Centre Central City / SFU Surrey

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Suspended from the centre's 6-storey atrium, the art piece “Together� is inspired by the collective behaviour of a flock of birds— symbolic of democracy [2, 3, 4].

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2 One of the greatest paradoxes that faces current suburbs is that on one hand they continue to grow, and on the other hand, the population is becoming increasingly conscious of environmental issues and the importance of reducing energy-dependence and ecological footprint. The strategic decision to move City Hall from the outskirts of Surrey, a location accessible only by car, to a centrally located brownfield site has done just that. As such, the project sets an important precedent for a new, integrated and more sustainable urban vision for the city.

Situated on the flood plain of the Fraser River, the Civic Centre has been designed in accordance with regional flood mitigation strategies, and has a number of storm water features implemented to alleviate flooding and excessive run-off. The large plaza is made of permeable concrete pavers and has two retention tanks to maximize water reuse and control flow-back to the regional water systems. The green roofs and garden terraces are planted with low-maintenance, native vegetation. Rainwater is collected and stored for re-use, while low-flow fixtures minimize water usage within the building.

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3

1

6 4 5

Level 1

7

8

1 9

Level 2

8

8

Level 3

Floor plans 1 2 3 4 5

Council Chamber Councillors meeting room Daycare Short stay counter Cafe

6 7 8 9 10

Atrium Infinity pool Open office Daycare playground Shared meeting rooms

"A metropolitan destination in itself: the new civic centre, with City Hall at its heart, is an exciting, high density, mixed-use, walkable, sustainable and inviting place to live, work, invest and explore. Surrey City Centre is the commercial, cultural and social hub of the city, where urban development combines with scenic parkland to create a vibrant downtown core with world-class amenities. " — Dianne Watts, Mayor, City of Surrey [5, 6].

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The 31-metre tall glazed atrium admits abundant natural light and facilitates natural ventilation – automatic sensors open and activate a natural chimney effect at specific temperatures. Adjacent office and meeting spaces use a high-performance HVAC system with occupancy sensors and individual controls. Building orientation and narrow floor plates maximize daylight penetration. Artificial lighting is controlled by daylight and occupancy sensors. Circulation corridors are organized at the centre of the floor plan, with open offices at the perimeter to make natural light and operable windows available at all workstations. This results in almost half of the occupied areas of the building being within 7m of an operable window.

Precast concrete panels and windows along the west facade are designed to exaggerate geometry and depth, controlling the amount of natural light admitted into select interior spaces.

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Project Performance Energy intensity building and process energy = 1049MJ/m2/year Energy intensity reduction relative to reference building under ASHRAE 90.1 [2007] = 33% Potable water consumption from municipal sources = 4,232 L/occupant/year Reduction in potable water consumption relative to reference building = 39% Regional materials [800km radius] by value = 15.5% Reclaimed and recycled materials by value = 23%

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3

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Project Credits Owner/Developer Surrey City Development Corporation Architect Moriyama & Teshima Architects Joint Venture Architect Kasian Project Manager Pivotal General Contractor PCL structural Engineer Read Jones Christoffersen Consulting Engineers Mechanical/Electrical Engineer MCW Consultants Ltd. Landscape Architects Moriyama & Teshima Planners Civil Engineer Aplin & Martin Consultant Ltd. LEEd & Building Envelope Consultant Morrison Hershfield Cost Consultant Gage Babcock & Associates Ltd. Photos Emma Peter

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5

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Materials Building sections 1 2 3 4

Green roof Cross ventilation Permeable pavers Water detention tank

5

6 7

Temperature-activated operable windows for cross ventilation Stack effect natural ventilation In-floor heating/concrete thermal mass

Structural system is concrete, and steel structure for the main roof and mechanical penthouse roof; point-support atrium glazing, canopy and interior glass guards designed and supplied by Stella Custom Glass Hardware; precast cladding panels and fibre-cement board; geothermal heat exchange system, fan coil four pipe system for offices and VAV for council chamber, in-floor heating for atrium.

7 Surrey Civic Centre was designed to accommodate change in technology, workplace strategies/operations and demographics. Flexibility was thus a key driver in the design from a long-term usability perspective. For instance, the Council Chamber is designed to transform into a performance venue. Another such example is the staff desk at the front of the space, which folds down into a raised platform, doubling as a stage to accommodate community performances.

The stakeholder consultation process and continuous engagement with the users and the community has resulted in residents who take great pride in their new Civic Centre and have a deep understanding and care for living and working in a sustainable environment that includes electric car charging stations, green features, natural light and ventilation, access to public transit and a pedestrian-focused civic centre.

Standing on a skybridge, looking into the building atrium and city square beyond, the expansive glass walls foster visual and physical connections between the interior spaces and the adjacent Plaza and the city beyond, emphasizing the integration of City Hall with the larger community and its role as a principal pedestrian gateway to and from the Plaza [4].

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sabMag - Summer 2015

WOOD IS GOOD FOR GREEN BUILDING

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sabMag - Summer 2015

The building is expressed as a series of cantilevered glass boxes, suggesting a stack of books. The interior of the library reflects the diversity of the exterior with stairs and bridges in the atrium connecting the five storeys, each storey offering unique program areas for different sectors of the community.

The plan reflects the principles of passive design. Floorto-ceiling vision glazing on the north and south facades promote glare-free daylight and passive solar heating; while elevators, emergency exits and mechanical shafts are located to the east and west, their solid walls minimizing glare and unwanted summer solar heat gain.

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Project Performance Energy intensity [building and process energy] = 701 MJ/m2/year Energy intensity reduction [relative to reference building under ASHRAE 90.1 [1999]] = 39.3 % Potable water consumption from municipal sources = 3437 L/occupant/year Reduction in potable water consumption [relative to reference building] = 64 % Reclaimed and recycled materials by value = 18% [Does not include recycled content in aluminum curtain wall] Regional materials [800km radius] by value = 21% [To Date. Awaiting material certification.]

Construction waste diverted from landfill = 76% materials Unitized curtain wall system with with sealed glazing units and applied frit by Prelco, T5 and LED fixtures for artificial lighting; vegetated roofs incorporating hot rubber coating by Carlisle Construction Materials and podium membrane roof by Hydrotech. The REHAU radiant in-floor heating and cooling system reduces noise and maximizes space efficiency while providing significant energy savings. Carpet tile by Interface, sheet flooring by Forbo.

The double-glazed windows have a thermal resistance of R3.6, including frame effects, and visible light transmission of over 63%. Frit patterns composed of random letters create interest for library visitors and also minimize bird impacts. Artificial lighting is high efficiency T5 and LED fixtures integrated into the metal linear baffle ceilings and controlled by daylight and occupancy sensors. This results in an energy reduction for lighting of more than 60% relative to the reference building.

Potable water requirements are reduced through a combination of lowflow plumbing fixtures and a rainwater collection and distribution system.

Most of the roof surfaces are vegetated, reducing storm water runoff substantially compared to hard surfaces. Level 5, the highest level of the building, has hard roofing materials so that rainwater can be collected without the staining that results from transport through vegetation. The rainwater collection system consists of roof drains, piping, pre-filtration prior to entering an underground rainwater cistern and post-filtration/UV disinfection prior to being used for flushing toilets and urinals.

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Building section B-B 1 2 3 4

Vestibule Lobby Atrium staircase Atrium bridge

5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12

Book pick-up Paul O'Regan Hall Wintergarden Parking garage

Teen study/reading Large program room Family reading Collection

13 14 15 16

Open study Local history Exterior podium Skylight

The heating and cooling system includes an active four-

Life cycle considerations included the ability to adapt to change, as the

pipe chilled beam system, and high-efficiency heat recov-

community’s needs change over time. The library was designed to accommo-

ery. Two high-efficiency natural gas boilers provide all the

date this. The floors were structurally designed for a library load throughout,

necessary heating for the building.

allowing the collection to be moved anywhere. Partitions are easily moved

The dedicated outside air [DOSA] main air handling

and the mechanical and electrical systems can be adapted to virtually any

systems use a Scandinavian technology, Canadian manu-

new layout.

factured, regenerative “push-pull” heat recovery systems

Areas in the building with higher glazing systems, specifically the first and

with heat recovery efficiency of 90%, even at very cold

fifth floors, also utilize radiant heating and cooling through the floor. Water is

ambient temperatures. Only 10% of the building’s ventila-

circulated through in-floor piping allowing these large surfaces to be warmed

tion heating needs are required to be provided by the fos-

in the winter, or cooled in the summer, efficiently conditioning the space.

sil fuel ventilation heating system.

Since opening its doors in December 2014, the Halifax Central Library has

The cooling systems include electric water chillers but

become a city landmark, embodying Halifax’s civic values but also conveying

these air-cooled machines are fitted with state-of- the-art

a sense of wonder, expectation, and discovery.

water side economizers so that when ambient conditions Paul O’Regan Hall; Common Day-to-Day Configuration [6].

Level 2, Children’s Zone [7].

allow, all the cooling needs of the building can be delivered without any need for mechanical refrigeration.

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sabMag - Summer 2015

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MEC HEAD OFFICE

- Vancouver, BC

Jury comment A very high-performance building that does justice to its client’s corporate philosophy and aspirations. It includes some wonderful collaborative and social spaces. The project has been tailored to its inhabitants, offering up environmental features as a way to enhance their day-to-day working life. The green roof is not there just to gain a credit, but is a habitable program space for the enjoyment of employees.

1 2 Project Performance - Energy intensity [building and process energy] = 297.5 MJ/m2/year - Energy intensity reduction relative to reference building under MNECB = 68% - Potable water consumption from municipal sources = 2,441 L/occupant/year - Potable water consumption reduction relative to reference building = 60% - Recycled material [by value] = 19.7% - Regional materials [800km radius] by value = 33.5% of LEED materials divisions - Construction materials diverted from landfill = 94% Project credits Owner/Developer MEC Architect Proscenium Architecture + Interiors Inc. Structural Engineer Fast + Epp Structural Engineers General Contractor Ventana Construction Landscape Architect Sharp + Diamond Landscape Architecture Civil Engineer KWL Associates Ltd. Electrical/mechanical Engineer Pageau Morel et AssociĂŠs Commissioning Agent Stantec PhotoS Ed White Photography

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Upper floor plan

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Founded in the 1970s, Mountain Equipment Co-op has a long history of promoting active outdoor lifestyles and environmental awareness. As a natural extension of these values, MEC embarked on creating a green building for its head office

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that would reflect its unique corporate culture. The site chosen 7

for the 12,100m2 building is southeast of the city centre, adjacent to a rapid transit station and a major east-west bike route.

Site plan 1 Existing building 2 Sky train above 3 Bio filtration garden

An integrated design process informed the concept and

4 Public art 5 Shower facility

6 EV charging stations 7 Central valley greenway

guided the development of the project: Among the key considerations were: • Wood construction was evaluated against other more conventional structural systems, and chosen for its renewability and aesthetic qualities. [See more on the use of wood in this project in ‘Tall Wood’ - SABMag 46, Winter 2014-15]

Great Northern Way Entrance [1]. Vertical Atrium – Stair [2]. Level 4 - Staff Roof Garden [3]. Level 3 – Office/ Admin. Floor [4].

• To reduce energy consumption, the building was designed with three large ventilation towers, and the plan oriented to take advantage of prevailing winds.

• A cruciform plan was chosen, with narrow floor plates which, together with extensive glazing and appropriate solar control, ensured that the majority of occupied spaces receive ample daylight.

• The intersection of the third and fourth-storey wings also serves the human agenda of the project by creating a vertical atrium that is the social heart of the building. Work environments are designed to promote collaboration between teams and a high-degree of operational efficiency.

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Wind scoop

Exhaust air Super-insulated envelope

MATERIALS

Prevailing winds [ assisted fresh air intake] Ceiling return air

Glulam and nail-laminated wood construction with structural insulated panels and curtain wall system; TPO roof by Carlisle Construction Materials; heating and cooling through a series of 20 geothermal wells optimized by a ground-source heat pump system. The REHAU radiant heating and cooling system is one of the technologies which allows the structure to be 70% energy intensity reduction.

Fibreglass-framed vision glazing

Raised floor supply air

Operable windows Exterior sunshades

Radiant cooling Level 4: Staff Lounge [5].

Level 1: Bouldering Room [6].

Heating ceiling

Heat pumps Geothermal borehole field

Thermal water storage Natural Hybrid Ventilation/ Thermal Recovery Systems + Environmental Features

East [Courtyard] Elevation The MEC Head Office is estimated to be 70% more energy efficient than the reference

Rear [North] Elevation

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building under the Model National Energy Code for Buildings [MNECB]. This is achieved through a combination of passive design and highly-efficient mechanical systems.

The passive design starts with a high-performance envelope with R50 walls, R70 roof, and high-performance triple-pane glazing systems, aluminum-framed curtain wall on the ground floor and operable fibreglass windows on the upper floors.

The building is heated and cooled through a series of 20 geothermal wells optimized by a ground-source heat pump system. Geothermal heat pumps are located between two large thermal storage reservoirs, limiting the number of heat pumps required and reducing electrical use. Heat pumps operate during off-peak hours to cool the reservoirs, and during the day, when demand peaks, the extra energy stored in the reservoirs is transferred to the building.

When hot weather occurs, or is forecast, the wind towers go into operation to cool down the building or pre-cool it in preparation for the next day. The wind towers take in fresh air from the roof inlets, directing it through fans into raised floor plenums on the main levels of the structure. Air from the ceiling level is exhausted outside. During mild conditions, air is re-circulated and heated or cooled using coils in the base of the wind towers.

Energy from rooms with significant heat gain such as the electrical rooms and server rooms is recovered through the heat pump system to preheat domestic hot water.

Dimming electronic ballasts are installed in the peripheral areas to decrease the artificial lighting as the natural lighting level increases, while occupancy sensors are employed in all enclosed rooms to regulate energy use. The centralized lighting system runs on a schedule to ensure efficiency.

Water conservation measures include low-flow and no-flow plumbing fixtures and rainwater harvesting to irrigate the green roof and ground-level landscaping. The green roof forms part of an accessible terrace outside the fourth floor cafeteria that provides panoramic views of the city and mountains. Open to all, this is perhaps the clearest expression of the design philosophy that permeates the entire project, a philosophy that places the wellbeing of building occupants at its heart.

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KWAYATSUT -

Vancouver, BC

Jury comment A challenging project, serving a high needs user group, this building needed to be highly durable as well as welcoming, supportive and environmentally responsible. To have met all these requirements on a tight budget is a considerable achievement. The building is generous and inclusive with elegant, comfortable and welcoming spaces that support and enhance self esteem. Transparency at grade enhances the connection to the community.

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Broadway South Elevation

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Fraser Street East Elevation

Kwayatsut - a partnership between BC Housing, the

With its focus on education, the BYRC was an active participant in the proj-

City of Vancouver, the Broadway Youth Resource Cen-

ect. Besides attending presentations about the project’s sustainable measures,

tre [BYRC] and the Vancouver Native Housing Society

several of the youth were engaged by the demolition contractor to assist in the

[VNHS] - provides supportive rental housing as part of

deconstruction of the existing building on the site. This not only taught the youth

British Columbia’s provincial Homelessness Initiative. This

about conservation and recycling; it gave them occupational training and skill

initiative focuses on providing safe, secure, permanent

development.

housing across the province, but particularly in response to

Beyond providing badly needed supportive housing for the homeless, the de-

the homelessness crisis in Vancouver. Kwayatsut is located

sign mandate was to achieve LEED Gold and a maximum 10% end use energy

at the intersection of Broadway and Fraser streets at the

from fossil fuels.

eastern ‘gateway’ of the Mount Pleasant neighbourhood, and on a major east-west transit route.

With a limited social housing budget, it was clear early on in the design process that the design and the sustainability measures had to be as simple and practical

The project consists of three major components:

as possible to provide the non-profit operator with a low-maintenance building.

• Ninety-nine self-contained units of housing plus ame-

The design team established the optimal sustainability strategies through a series

nity / support space, intended for people who are home-

of integrated workshops, extensive energy modelling, and costing exercises.

less or at risk of being homeless. Thirty of these units are for youth.

• A commercial component, owned, managed and leased by the City of Vancouver.

Solar shading and metal cladding at the south-facing residential component [1].

View along Fraser Street: 9-storey VNHS at left; 2-storey BYRC at right [2].

Typical two-bedroom living - dining room [3]. “Eagle High” lounge areas provide a buffer between corridors and classrooms [4].

• The Broadway Youth Resource Centre, providing a range of social, health, housing, education, employment and life skills services to homeless and at-risk youth be-

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Fraser Street

tween the ages of 12 and 24.

East Broadway Main floor plan

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Project Performance Energy intensity [building and process energy] = 319MJ/m2/year Energy intensity reduction relative to reference building under MNECB = 56% Potable water consumption from municipal sources = 19,942 L/occupant/year Potable water consumption reduction relative to reference building = 44.5% Regional materials [800km radius by road or 2,400km radius by ship or rail] by value = 20% Reclaimed and recycled materials by value = 37.5% Demolition and construction waste diverted from landfill = 93%

The building has a compact and simple form with elongated east and west elevations. Cooling-dominated spaces [specifically the BYRC] are located on the north side away from unwanted solar heat gain. The high-performance building envelope is a thermally-broken rainscreen system with continuous high insulation values and a 33% window-to-wall ratio.

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Detail: exterior at roof eave and parapet 1 Flush metal panel Drainage channel Vertical fibreglass spacers Mineral wool insulation - 2 layers Air/Vapour barrier membrane Concrete

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2 Prefinished metal composite panel Drainage channel Vertical fibreglass spacers Mineral wool insulation - 2 layers Air/Vapour barrier Concrete 3 Prefinished metal composite panel beyond

4 2 layers self-adhering membrane 5 Prefinished linear metal panel Drainage channel Fibreglass spacers Mineral wool insulation - 2 layers Air/Vapour barrier membrane Exterior glass reinforced GWB

6 Prefinished metal solar shade 7 Concrete topping with radiant heating tubes on structural suspended slab 8 Fibre cement panel Drainage channel Semi-rigid insulation Air/Vapour barrier membrane

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Fax: (604) 395-8365 AtlasRoofing.com sabMag - SUMMER 2015

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Project Credits Owner/Developer Vancouver Native Housing Society Architect NSDA Architects General Contractor Darwin Construction Ltd. Landscape Architect Perry + Associates ElectricaL / Mechanical Engineer MMM Group Structural Engineer Fast + Epp Structural Engineers Commissioning Agent CES Engineering Building Envelope exp. Services Inc. Photos Derek Lepper Photography

Building Section Looking East

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MATERIALS Roofing pedestals with roof insulation using Atlas AC Foam III, and drainage board by Carlisle Construction Materials, mineral wool for cavity insulation, profiled metal cladding and clay masonry; ceiling-mounted water-to-air geothermal heat pump units, and domestic hot water pre-heated by water-to-water geothermal heat pump units, with gas-fired boilers for backup; Marmoleum flooring and Etrenal Step by Forbo.

All habitable rooms in the building have access to natural light and air. LEED criteria of one operable window per 18.5 m2 is easily met. Corridors and elevator lobbies have operable windows for light and ventilation. In addition to natural ventilation, all suites are mechanically vented.

In-floor hot water radiant heating tubes are attached to structural concrete floor slabs and provided with low-temperature heating from the geothermal heat pump system. The on-site vertical geothermal loop energy source has 40, 120m geo-exchange boreholes located beneath the parking garage. A central ventilation system with continuously running bathroom exhaust and outdoor air supplied serves all the suites. This system utilizes an enthalpy heat recovery wheel and mechanical cooling/heating from the geothermal heat pump system.

Amenity areas are mechanically conditioned by utilizing ceiling mounted water-to-air geothermal heat pump units, and domestic hot water is pre-heated by water-to-water geothermal heat pump units. Gas-fired boilers are used for backup only and under normal conditions consumption of fossil fuels has been eliminated.

Life cycle issues, such as durability and low operating costs of the building systems were important to the client and BC Housing as the long-term lease on the land is for 60 years. As with many supportive housing programs, the PHI program may evolve over time, necessitating changes to the building. As such, the interiors of the building were constructed with lightweight steel framing and the units were deliberately built larger than the minimum to facilitate possible changes in use.

Kwayatsut is an urban building that fills the entire site, limitA continuous skylight above the lounges brings in natural light shared by adjacent spaces [5]. Typical residential kitchens [6]. BYRC main entry Reception, Resource Centre and administration offices [7].

ing the potential for improving the quality of the residents’ lives through access to communal outdoor space. In response to this challenge, rooftop planting has been introduced along with provision for urban agriculture. VNHS is in the process of adding bee colonies to planted areas. In addition, a traffic lane on Fraser Street was closed and existing trees retained to provide a wide landscape buffer.

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Looking for new ways to build better?

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For more information visit bchydro.com/construction or call 604 522 4713 or 1 866 522 4713

sabMag - SUMMER 2015

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A13-531

Sechelt Hospital Expansion and Renovations Sechelt, BC Jury comment This project is exemplary for its depth of integration at the community and social level. It is also an interesting exploration of how to improve clinical environments with operable windows, natural light and the integration of culture and community through works of art. Achieving such a high level of performance and at the same time strong connections to culture, nature and community is remarkable particularly in a P3 project.

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Completed in October of 2013, this project included an addition to the existing hospital building, comprising an expanded emergency, diagnostic imaging, ambulatory care and special care services. Additional inpatient accommodation, including two new floors of bedrooms with 100% single occupancy rooms, enhanced the capacity and quality of care significantly. The project evolved from the ambition to create a meaningful and supportive environment for all staff, patients and visi-

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tors, reflecting the place, culture and people it would serve.

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Inspired by the First Nations tradition of cedar bent-boxes used to

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hold sacred items—appropriate for a hospital that hosts momentous events, from births to deaths to healing – the hospital’s curved corners echo the bending of the cedar, and the exterior pattern of brown tones gives the building an organic feel. The light-filled lobby serves as the new face of the hospital, marks the new main entrance, and connects the new and existing portions of the hospital.

Central to the design of the lobby was the creation of a new public

Site plan

room for the community, the recognition of the many donors who contributed to the project, and the inclusion of artwork—such as a mural that welcomes visitors to the hospital and extends the full 21m length of the lobby—created by members of the Sechelt First Nation, who also donated the land for the hospital.

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1 Mechanical

2 Heating/cooling

3 Geothermal field

Extensive consultation and collaboration with health care providers and the First Nation was undertaken to establish strong community ties with the facility. The design responds to the First Nation’s emphasis on connecting to nature for optimum health and well being. Local wood, stone and landscape elements echo the local ecology and materials. Health considerations were of utmost importance; finishes were kept to a minimum and emission rates for all materials were carefully scrutinized to ensure a high quality and healthy indoor environment.

A narrow floor plate, and careful programming around the perimeter result in natural daylight and ample views for all patient rooms and inpatient areas. On-site respite gardens invite patients, visitors and staff to connect with nature. The Sechelt Hospital is one of the few hospitals to have operable windows in all clinical and inpatient areas.

Inspired by the First Nations tradition of cedar bent-boxes used to hold sacred items, the hospital’s curved corners echo the bending of the cedar [1]. View to the light-filled lobby which has the new main entrance, and connects the new and existing portions of the hospital [2].

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Ground floor 1 Existing building 2 Entrance 3 Imaging and Radiography

4 Ambulance vestibule 5 Trauma 6 Exam room

7 Staff corridor

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Second floor 1 Existing building 2 Inpatient rooms

3 Stepdown room 4 ICU room

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View

Room views View

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Room view plan 1 WORKSTATION: This alcove gives nurses proximity to patients through smaller workstations with laptop, sink and file storage.

2 NURSE SERVER: With inside and hallway access, this storage area allows nurses to stock supplies from outside the patient’s room, therefore minimizing patient disturbances.

3 WASHROOM: Washroom entrances were placed for the most direct access from the bed, reducing the potential for injuries.

4 CARE ZONE: The care zone allows doctors and nurses space and access to the patient that is separate from visitors.

5 FAMILY ZONE: This zone gives family and friends a comfortable area to visit with patients or rest between visits.

6 VIEWS: The size and placement of windows were designed specifically to be as energy efficient as possible while also maximizing the views.

Patient rooms have strong connections to nature to create a spirit of optimism and regeneration. [3]. The patio near the main entrance at the lobby.

The geothermal field is beyond the pavement [4].

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Project Performance - Energy intensity [building and process energy] = 1,343 MJ /m2/year - Energy intensity reduction relative to reference building under ASHRAE 90.1 [1999] = 36% - Energy consumption of lighting system = 58.8 kWh/m2/year - Potable water consumption from municipal sources = 12,141 L/occupant/year - Potable water reduction relative to reference building under EPA 1992 = 30.65% - Regional materials [800km radius] by value = 30% - Reclaimed and recycled materials by value = 27% - Construction waste diverted from landfill = 86.9% Project Credits Owner/Developer Vancouver Coastal Health Architect Farrow Partnership in association with Perkins+Will Canada Structural Engineer Fast + Epp Structural Engineers Electrical Engineer Acumen Engineering Mechanical Engineer Integral Group Landscape Architect Sharp & Diamond Landscape Architecture Inc. Civil Engineer Stantec General Contractor Graham Construction and Engineering Commissioning Agent CES Group Photos Latreille & Delage

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The second floor hallway which connects the hospital expansion to the existing hospital [5]. Detail of the lobby and a portion of the mural which extends up to the full ceiling height [6].

A climate-specific landscape plan eliminates potable water for irrigation. Meadow grass and native bulb and seed mix cover much of the grounds instead of manicured lawns. The meadows are allowed to grow long and require little water. Part of the roof area is vegetated with sedum tiles, integrated with fleece mats to eliminate the need for irrigation. Infiltration gardens planted with strong native species are used to move stormwater through the site.

The design prioritizes passive and low carbon strategies for energy, with an emphasis on daylighting, a high-performance envelope with high-efficiency glass and framing fenestration, solar shading and operable windows for natural ventilation. These strategies are used effectively in combination with active strategies to achieve significant energy savings. A photovoltaic array generates 1% of energy annually, a high-mass hydronic radiant floor slab works with a VAV reheat system for both heating and cooling, and a geo-exchange system provides a source of lowcarbon heating energy. Heat is recovered from exhaust air with high-efficiency water-to-water heat pumps.

The client was concerned that this investment in public health be an enduring one. As such, the design team took care to ensure space planning and programming would be optimal, now and well into the future. The team rented a nearby helicopter hanger and constructed a full size mock-up of different departments in the new addition, and worked with hospital staff to test a variety of scenarios to help determine the appropriate sizes, locations and adjacencies of rooms. The result has been the creation of exceptional and efficient spaces that are designed to support healing, reduce infection and be flexible enough to accommodate the evolving needs of the hospital.

Both the design team and Health Authority believe the best way to learn is to engage and communicate. Health and well-being are often dependent on strength of community, thus engaging occupants and stakeholders to inform design was essential to the success of this project

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EARTH SCIENCES BUILDING Vancouver, BC Jury comment A highly energy-efficient building that is also exemplary in its use of new wood products and technology. The facades are nuanced in their response to solar orientation and views, and the interiors are warm, welcoming and beautifully lit. The project expresses its intentions very clearly in the arrangement of its program, the transparency of its activities and the high level of refinement in its detailing.

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Located on the Point Grey campus of the University of British Columbia, and shared between the Department of Earth, Ocean & Atmosphere, the Department of Statistics,

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the Pacific Institute for the Mathematical Sciences, the Dean 7

of Science, and the Pacific Museum of the Earth, the Earth Sciences Building [ESB] provides valuable opportunities

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for shared learning and collaboration. The building contains teaching, lab and office space, and three lecture theatres.

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ESB was designed to reflect UBC’s dedication to advanc-

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ing sustainability by reducing the environmental footprint

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associated with the construction and operation of the build4

ing. New wood products and technologies are an integral part of this strategy.

The five-storey complex is organized into two wings linked by an atrium with a free-floating, cantilevered, glulamcomposite staircase. The academic wing and the atrium use wood as the primary structural material. The use of glulam

Site plan

beams and columns in a five-storey building, the hybrid wood composite floor panels, significant CLT elements and an elegant cantilevered glulam staircase make ESB a unique project in Canada, effectively raising the bar for the use of wood in large-scale, high-performance buildings.

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Earth Sciences Building [ESB] Main mall Beaty Biodiversity Museum Fairview square

5 Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences Building [EOAS] 6 Main mall oaks 7 E/W pedestrian corridor

8 ESB academic wing 9 ESB lab wing

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Ground floor plan

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The ESB plays a vital role in reinforcing the campus public realm along Main Mall. Visual access to the laboratory space in the building from the exterior and the ground level cafe, invite the campus into the space. Directly accessible from Fairview Square to the south, serving building users and

Third floor plan

passersby, the cafe animates the space, creating a destination and focal point for the commons.

The landscape was designed to cope with the seasonal weather patterns

Academic wing: wood structure

of Vancouver. While there is significant rain in the winter, drought conditions occur in the summer. Plant species were selected for their droughttolerance and adaptability. Eleven mature oak trees along Main Mall, were

Lab wing: concrete structure Floor plans

carefully preserved.

ESB maximizes occupant connection to the outdoors. Offices are arranged along the perimeter of the building on a narrow floor plate offering operable windows and views to the exterior. The offices not connected to the exterior look onto the natural light-filled atrium. All lecture theatres and below grade laboratory areas are also daylit. To further support comfort, wellbeing and productivity the occupants can adjust ventilation, lighting and temperature.

1 Atrium 2 Lecture theatre 3 Classrooms 4 Cafe 5 Pacific Museum of the Earth [PME] 6 High-Head laboratories 7 Shared space

8 Offices 9 Computer labs 10 Labs 11 Support 12 Earth, Ocean and Athmospheric Sciences Buildings [EOAS]

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In addition to a high-efficiency envelope and high-performance glazing, close attention was given to optimizing daylight and minimizing the need for artificial lighting, while controlling glare and heat gain. Each elevation of the building has been treated with integrated solar shading devices suitable to the direction it faces. The East facade has vertical translucent laminated glass fins, angled for maximum glare control, and the South and West facades have external, overhang horizontal shades and interior blinds to regulate light levels and heat gain.

Mechanical systems include a displacement ventilation system and radiant slabs for heating of perimeter zones in the office areas. Multi-occupant spaces are equipped with CO2 sensors to control outdoor air, and the labs are supplied with ventilation air through a constant volume reheat system, using VAV boxes to reduce ventilation rates at night. Waste heat is also recovered from the lab fume hood exhausts and used as pre-heat. The plant-side mechanical systems consist of two heat recovery chillers in a

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Thermenex setup.

Wood is the primary construction material for the academic wing, and concrete for the lab wing. Using wood was a strategic decision to express the local vernacular, and to demonstrate the potential of this renewable resource to reduce the environmental footprint of larger and taller construction. According to the ATHENA EcoCalculator, the net reduction in t.CO2eq/m2 is 47% compared to conventional concrete construction.

The southeast elevation [1]. The south facade is a double-wall construction with aluminum louvres, and an extended canopy for cafe weather protection [2]. A composite laminated timber panel being craned into place [3]. View along the academic wing toward the lab wing [4].

Project Performance - Energy intensity [building and process energy] = 1110MJ/m2/year - Energy intensity reduction relative to reference building under MNECB = 59% - Potable water consumption reduction relative to reference building = 42.6% - Reclaimed and recycled materials by value = 17.8% - Regional materials [800km radius] = 32% - Construction materials diverted from landfill = 84.8%

South facade

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East facade

North facade

West facade

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6 The ESB is designed for a service life exceeding 60 years. The design team followed the recommendations of CSA S478-95 [R-2001] Guideline on Durability in Buildings. Accordingly, the building’s structure includes large spans to allow for flexibility in reconfiguring layout and program over the long-term. In addition, wood products are also easily reclaimed or recycled into other products at the end of their service life.

As an institution, UBC is dedicated to advancing sustainability through programs that address its own operations and infrastructure, and generate long-term environmental, social and economic benefits. The ESB is now part of the campus Green Building tour, a component of a larger education program that aims to use buildings as tangible illustrations of the University’s long-term commitment to sustainability.

The display area of the Pacific Museum of the Earth runs parallel to the open high-headed labs [behind the glazing] built of concrete construction [5]. The high-head laboratory, which is required to be located in the basement, penetrates the first first floor to receive ample daylight [6].

The fully cantilevered staircase in the atrium is a seamless folding 'ribbon' of rigid glulam stringers [7].

Project Credits Owner/Developer UBC Properties Trust Architect Perkins+Will Canada Construction Manager Bird Construction Landscape Architect Eckford Tyacke + Associates Civil Engineer Core Group Consultants Electrical Engineer Acumen Engineering Mechanical Engineer Stantec Consulting Structural Engineer Equilibrium Consulting Inc. Photographer Martin Tessler

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GEORGE BROWN COLLEGE WATERFRONT campus - toronto, on Jury comment This highly accomplished and elegant building is notable for its strong relationship to site, its accessibility to the public and its ‘porous’ program of social space. The space flows freely between outside and inside, then through the building in a consistent and understated way. The high level of environmental performance is also achieved without overt expression of sustainable systems. A rare example of an institutional building that is also welcoming to the public and exciting to explore.

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Project Credits Client George Brown College Architects Stantec Architecture and Kuwabara Payne McKenna Blumberg Architects, Architects in Joint Venture Engineers [structural, mechanical, electrical, civil and sustainability, energy] Stantec Consulting Inc. Cost consultant Hanscomb Building Code Leber | Rubes Landscape Phillips Farevaag Smallenberg Landscape Architects Geostructural Engineer Sherwood Geostructural Engineers Marine Engineer SHAL Consulting Engineers Geotechnical and Environmental Engineer Trow Associates Project Manager Terry Comeau, Nerys Rau Construction Manager EllisDon Photos Tom Arban Photography and Richard Johnson

2 View of the campus looking east from the waterfront walkway [1]. Waterfront campus northeast entrance [2]. [Photos: Tom Arban]. The atrium is the social hub of the building, with activities at ground level visible and audible from the upper floors [3]. [Photo © Maris Mazulis].

George Brown College’s new LEED Gold Certified, 47,100 sq. m Waterfront Health Sciences Campus occupies a prominent site in Toronto’s East Bayfront redevelopment precinct.

The building’s design embodies an integrated approach to the delivery of healthcare education. The overarching vision of the campus is to realize an inter-professional education [IPE] delivery model whereby students from different professional programs can learn from and with each other to understand the importance of collaboration and its impact on quality of care. The campus transcends traditional concepts of building sustainability to leverage the idea of IPE as a means to support the long-term sustainability of Canada’s universal healthcare system.

Project Performance - Energy intensity [building and process energy] = 443MJ/m2/year - Energy reduction relative to reference building under MNEBC = 42% - Potable water consumption from municipal sources = 1628 L/occupant/year - Potable water consumption savings relative to model building = 45% - Reclaimed and recycled materials content by value = 17.7% - Regional materials [800km radius] by value = 33.2% - Construction materials diverted from landfill = 83.7%

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Level 1

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Main entrance Campus store Main campus atrium Welcome desk Sherbourne Park entrance Coffee outlet Dining hall Cafeteria Porch Waterfront Promenade entrance Shipping / receiving Terrace

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Building section [coloured area shows public spaces] GBC’s Waterfront Campus consolidates four diverse healthcare

Master Developer Waterfront Toronto [WT] set the stage for

education schools. With state-of-the-art learning lab spaces for over

the revitalization of Toronto’s waterfront, one of the largest urban

4,000 students and faculty, and the College’s continuing education

brownfield remediation initiatives in the world. Sustainability is at

and clinical service programs, the building is a major contributor to

the forefront, lifting the precinct and its projects beyond real estate

the animation of Toronto’s waterfront.

development with the goal of creating green, livable, and prosper-

A learning resource library, food and retail outlets, student learning

ous communities while meeting key public policy objectives.

landscapes and a 235-seat auditorium overlook a lakefront promenade.

GBC’s new campus met and exceeded the strategies and targets

Crucial to the success of the building’s place as a sustainable land-

outlined in WT’s Sustainability Framework by means of redeveloping

mark is its green roof, energy performance, and the durability of the

an abandoned site, animating the public realm with a high degree

materials used in its construction. In addition to its LEED Gold certifi-

of transparency at the ground floor and throughout the building’s

cation, the campus meets the Waterfront Toronto Mandatory Green

cascading public spaces facing both the adjacent urban park and

Building Requirements and the Toronto Green Standards.

Lake Ontario.

Energy consumption was substantially reduced by incorporating a number of energy conservation measures including, but not limited to, improved insulation levels, reduced lighting power density, lighting controls with occupancy sensors and photocells, high-efficiency mechanical equipment, and heat recovery on air handling units.

Brownfield site contamination risk was minimized through the removal and disposal of all contaminated soil and groundwater at MOE-licensed disposal facilities. By accomplishing these goals, GBC and developer WT reinforced the sustainable community approach as well as further enabled Toronto to compete aggressively with other top tier global cities for investment, jobs, and people.

For further information on this project see the Spring, 2013 issue of SABMag, www.sabmagazine.com.

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The Learning Landscapes support an informal and collaborative approach to learning [4]. [Photo © Maris Mazulis].

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BEECHWOOD DEEP ENERGY RETROFIT toronto, on Jury comment A highly transferable example of how to intensify existing communities, adding to their capacity and improving their energy performance. The ambition to take this rather unremarkable existing house to an exceptionally high level of energy performance is to be applauded, as is the suite of innovative but highly transferable strategies that were used. It is also noteworthy that the project team decided to build upward rather than outward, and to restore previously paved areas of the site to natural landscape.

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Project Credits This project has transformed a post-World War II bungalow into a highly-efficient two-storey home: a retrofit that exceeds Passive House air-tightness standards. The project was developed using an integrated design process to optimize perfor-

General Contractor Greening Homes Ltd. Architect Open Architects Mechanical Engineer Sustainable EDGE

mance in the areas of energy efficiency, indoor air quality and water consumption.

Building geometry and glazing were optimized for passive solar gain during the heating season and solar exclusion during the cooling season. Super-insulation, an airtight building envelope, and mechanical ventilation with energy recovery serve to minimize space-conditioning requirements. Heating and cooling are supplied by a heat pump which uses a shallow geothermal loop to collect or reject heat. Distribution to the home is via radiant

A view of the eating area in the kitchen [1]. The south elevation of the house. The owners originally purchased the property because of its favourable solar orientation on the south facade and ravine views to the north. Note the shape of the structure: it is a "dressed up" cube; the eaves and overhangs have been applied outboard of the exterior insulation to achieve thermal-bridge free construction. They have been optimized to take advantage of solar gains in the winter while excluding them in the summer. The sloped roof is a durable standing seam metal roof with a cool roof coating [SRI=29] [2].

ceilings and an in-slab radiant system in the basement. These systems maintained comfortable conditions [without the need for supplementary heat] throughout the first winter of occupan0

cy, when temperatures dipped as low as -2 C .

The home backs onto the Don Valley, meaning that all changes to the property require permission from municipal authorities for ravine management. The existing deck was in need of major repair and in order to limit the impact on the ravine, the design decision was made to build a new smaller deck. To limit work within the ravine, helical piles were used instead of concrete to support the new structure.

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A view of the "Great Room". Note the clerestory windows to the east and west for daylighting and cross ventilation. The north elevation faces the ravine; however, glazing area and properties were optimized to balance the desire for ravine views with control of heat loss.

Space conditioning is supplied through radiant ceiling panels [3].

A bedroom. The door leads to a deck over the garage. All the bedrooms have operable openings on at least two sides to allow for natural ventilation. The radiant ceilings in this south-facing bedroom were zoned separately from the north-facing bedrooms for superior heating and cooling control [4]. The master washroom with clerestory window for daylighting and natural ventilation [5].

R50 - 1'' poly ISO on interior ceiling + mineral wool batt on flat roof area

R63 - 1'' poly ISO on interior ceiling + 15" blown-in cellulose R43.6 - 4'' poly ISO on exterior with 3''of 2lb foam on interior

U 0.14 - triple glazed fiberglass windows with insulated frames R43.6 - header cavity filled with foam + 4'' ply ISO on exterior R43.6 - 4'' poly ISO on exterior with 3'' of 2lb foam on interior

R57 - 4'' poly ISO on exterior of bay with 8'' of Roxul in 2''x8'' stud cavity

R43.6 - basement above grade with 4'' poly ISO on exterior and interior foam

R30 - below grade basement walls 5'' 2lb foam Insulation design Insulation

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R20- under slab and around perimeter of slab

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To reduce runoff from the property, and the potential for ero-

Ground floor plan

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sion in the adjacent ravine, the home is plumbed to collect rain-

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

water in an underground cistern. By way of a separate supply manifold, this water will be recycled for non-potable uses such as irrigation, toilet flushing and laundry.

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The conservation of embodied energy was a priority for the project. The existing masonry and original floor joists of the home were retained. All appliances, doors, boiler and radiators

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were donated.

New materials included: FSC-certified framing lumber; lead-

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Before

free brass plumbing fittings; triple-pane, argon-filled, fibreglass windows; 40% SCM content concrete; high recycled content drywall; low-VOC paints; recycled denim batt sound insulation

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and regionally-sourced maple flooring.

Garage Bedroom Dining room Living room Kitchen Bathroom Great room Pantry Storage CLoset Entry

Existing to remain New walls

This low- energy home offers the prospect of healthy and affordable living over the long term, independent of any fluc8

tuations in energy prices. The owners want to share the lessons learned with their community. Prior to completion, the home

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was part of OSEA’s Green Energy Doors Open event, and the

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owners want to continue using their home as a teaching tool,

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particularly for architecture and engineering students from local university programs.

After

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Do our green buildings perform as expected? project examines gaps between expected and actual performance

By Dr Mark Gorgolewski

Discrepancies arise for many reasons such as modelling inaccuracies, envelope and systems integration problems, construction grades, and can help designers integrate lessons from existing buildings into future projects.

Buildings are complex entities that rely on both technical systems and human behaviour to create appropriate environments with optimal use of resources.

There are often significant gaps between predicted [or expected] performance and measured performance in areas such as energy use, carbon emissions, water use, indoor environmental quality and comfort.

Quality issues, occupancy changes, commissioning, operational issues, and motivation of occupants can lead to additional costs for building owners, reduced occupant productivity and buildings that fail to live up to their potential.

To better understand how buildings are performing and can be improved it is important for the industry to develop a system of effective feedback between practice and policy, where lessons learned from actual buildings can inform the next generation of buildings.

A project initiated by iiSBE Canada investigated the “performance gap” of nine Canadian green buildings. The aim was to better understand real performance issues by documenting the differences between predicted and measured performance for energy, water and indoor environment, and comparing this with benchmarks for “typical” performance of similar buildings. Such an investigation can help building owners improve their buildings by better understanding how to optimise performance and prioritise up.

The project was initiated by iiSBE Canada and

An important aspect of the project was to combine quantitative data such as

undertaken by researchers from the University of

metered energy use and spot measurements of environmental conditions [such

British Columbia, University of Manitoba and Ryerson

as temperatures, lighting, and acoustics] with qualitative data from occupant-

University with support from Stantec R&D Fund

generated feedback about satisfaction levels for various aspects of the building

and Canada’s Natural Sciences and Engineering

[collected through questionnaires].

Research Council [NSERC].

Analyzing occupant satisfaction helps to highlight shortcomings in the indoor environmental conditions of the project, which can affect occupant productivity,

The Centre for Interactive Research on Sustainability at the University of British Columbia by Perkins+Will was one of nine test buildings in the iiSBE performance measurement study. photo: martin tessler.

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well-being, health, and business competitiveness.

The nine building performance evaluations have identified key areas where a better understanding of building design and operational issues is needed.

500 450 Refernce EUI - typical for building type kWh/m2/yr

400 350

Predicted EUI - modelled kWh/m2/yr

300 250

Actual EUI - metered kWh/m2/yr

200 150 100 50 Figure 1

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MMM Group office

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Surrey District Education Centre

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Canal Building

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Ron Joyce Centre

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Roblin Centre Jim Pattison Centre

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CIRS

1 Figure 2

Alice Turner Library

0 Daylight

Ventilation and thermal

Acoustics and privacy

Non-speech acoustics

Figure 1 shows a summary of modelled, measured and bench-

Figure 2 shows the aggregated feedback from occupants for five major

mark values for energy use intensity for the nine buildings. This

indoor environment categories. This highlights the re-occurring concerns

shows how the gap between measured and predicted perfor-

that occupants have with acoustic issues, which produced the lowest oc-

mance varies significantly.

cupant satisfaction in all the buildings.

All but one building uses less energy than the reference

Conversely, lighting scored well in all the buildings. This is despite

benchmarks and five are more than 50% below their reference

physical measurements indicating that some spaces seem to be over-lit.

benchmark. Most use more energy than the design stage pre-

It seems that high levels of daylight well beyond recommended standards

dictions, and three buildings do not meet their predicted perfor-

did not appear to affect lighting satisfaction, and may in fact have con-

mance by a significant margin.

tributed to it.

One of the key findings of the project was that each building

The evaluations highlighted the importance of commissioning and on-

has its own individual “story� that provides an important context

going building management issues to successful building operation. A

for effective management and improvement of the building in

number of building performance problems could be directly attributed to

its ongoing life, and needs to be understood.

commissioning gaps, and conversely the exemplary actual performance

Reasons for discrepancies are varied. For example, a building such as the Roblin Centre may not meet its energy or water tar-

of several projects appeared to be directly related to higher management and operational capabilities and capacities of operating staff.

gets because it is being used more intensively [more occupants

This reiterates the findings of others that complex buildings need ap-

or for more hours]. Despite higher energy and water use this

propriately qualified management staff, and if they are not available, de-

may be beneficial as it avoids the construction and operation of

signers should avoid complex technologies that are not well understood

additional space.

by the industry.

In contrast, a building may meet its energy targets, but it may

Finally, difficulty in collecting data indicates that, if the industry is to

be underused, with lower occupancies; or its location may result

establish effective feedback on a wider scale, it is important that better

in increased travel distances and greater use of private transpor-

documentation of design assumptions and provision for collecting perfor-

tation by its occupants, leading to increased carbon emissions.

mance data be considered at the design stage. A comprehensive report

In some building types determining actual occupancy can be very difficult if not monitored and recorded on an ongoing basis.

This is a key aspect that needs to be better understood since changes in building occupancy from original design assumptions can lead to operational issues and under performance.

on each building, and a summary paper about the project, are available on the iiSBE Canada web site [http://iisbecanada.ca/sb-14/].

Dr Mark Gorgolewski is in the Department of Architectural Science, Ryerson University, Toronto, and an iiSBE Canada member, mgorgo@ryerson.ca .

sabMag - SUMMER 2015

45

Delayed adoption of LEED v4 Now what?

VIEWPOINT By Sophia Wong, LEED Green Associate and Senior Consultant at PE INTERNATIONAL, Ottawa

A sigh of relief and a groan of frustration were simultaneously heard on October 29th, 2014. That was the day the U.S. Green Building Council [USGBC] announced that it would extend the LEED 2009 registration date from June 2015 to October, 2016. This means that project teams in the US and Canada, will be able to choose which rating system they register under, LEED v4 or the old 2009 version, until this date.

The reason for the delay? According to USGBC, the market isn’t ready. An informal poll administered at the 2014 Greenbuild International Conference & Expo in New Orleans showed that 61% of those polled were “not ready” or “unsure” if they were ready to pursue LEED v4.

At Greenbuild, particular attention was pointed at the new Materials and Resources [MR] section, with some LEED users claiming that the new Building Product Disclosure and Optimization credits are too complex or simply not practical.

At PE INTERNATIONAL, we specialize in helping companies along

Not practical? Think beyond ‘check-the-box’ to business value.

the built environment value chain to better understand the MR credits.

No one complains about initiatives that save energy because

Many of our customers fall into the ‘other 39%’ who are ready to charge

the business value is clear: saving energy means saving money.

ahead with v4. Our work with these early adopters and our participation

On the other hand, it is easy to get lost in the weeds if you

in the development of the credits through the Materials and Resources

don’t understand the business value of the MR credits. Here are

Technical Advisory Group [MR TAG] have given us a unique perspective

some tips from PE INTERNATIONAL to get you thinking beyond

on these concerns.

‘check-the-box’ to business value.

• Architects, engineers and building professionals: Appreciate

Too complex? Take it one step at a time.

whole building LCA. New tools now allow you to integrate the

The MR credits take a systems or life cycle perspective. That means

environmental information you collect from your suppliers into

that single attributes such as recycled content and regional materials

your Building Information Modeling [BIM] software. From a

are no longer given as much weight as they had in LEED 2009. Instead,

whole building LCA perspective, you can now determine the

LEED project teams are incentivized to take a more holistic approach

trade-offs between material choices, for example, “Is it more

by asking their suppliers for disclosures such as Environmental Product

responsible to use a long-lasting material or one with lower

Declarations [EPDs], Health Product Declarations [HPDs], and Corporate

initial impact?”

Social Responsibility [CSR] reports.

• Product manufacturers and suppliers: Think in terms of

It’s true; if you are new to Life Cycle Assessment [LCA], ingredient

revenue growth, cost cutting, brand enhancement, and risk miti-

disclosure, and sustainability reporting, the MR section does contain a lot

gation. Don’t just look at the MR requirements simply as added

of new concepts and terminology. Be patient as you traverse the learning

costs. Consider them as investments. A valuable starting point is

curve, and know that there are lots of resources to help you along the way.

to consider these four ‘buckets’ of business value and determine

There are also timescales to keep in mind when putting together these

how undertaking a product assessment can contribute to these.

disclosures. The best way to make sure that LEED project teams are ready to hit the ground running with LEED v4 by October, 2016 is to start now and take your first step.

Conclusion No matter where you sit in the built environment value chain,

• Architects, engineers and building professionals: Ask your suppli-

there is still a lot that you can do now, before the official transi-

ers for LEED v4 disclosures [EPDs, HPDs, CSR reports, etc.]. Even if you

tion to LEED v4 in October 2016. Consider early preparation as

are not going to register under LEED v4 until 2016, it will take time to

an opportunity for you to be ready, like you would before going

populate your product libraries with the required documentation. Let your

on a big trip. For example, you may want to take some time to

suppliers know that you are thinking ahead, and in turn reward them for

read a guidebook [the LEED v4 reference guide], learn a few

their efforts.

terms in the local language [“LCA”, “EPD”, and “HPD”], and

• Product manufacturers and suppliers: Figure out what your peers and

maybe even consider what you’ll do before you get there [stra-

competitors are doing. For some product categories, such as flooring and

tegic planning]. That way, you’ll understand the true benefits of

insulation, an EPD is a given. For other product categories you may find

embracing the LEED v4 MR credits, and your brand will not be

that no one in your particular product sector has come out with a product

left behind.

disclosure. Instead of resting on your laurels, consider this as an opportunity to differentiate yourself as a market leader.

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ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCT DECLARATION

EPD PRECAST CONCRETE

In accordance with ISO 14025

Place de l’Escarpement, Quebec City, QC – LEED Gold Certified Architect: Pierre Martin Architecte

EPDs are third party verified (certified) reports published by product manufacturers that provide quality assured and comparable information regarding environmental performance of their products or system.

The CaGBC LEED v4 Rating System and Architecture 2030 are emphasizing the demand for EPDs, by addressing transparency in environmental lifecycle impacts and the selection of building products with improved lifecycles.

North American Precast Concrete associations are working together with ASTM International and Athena Sustainable Materials Institute to achieve a third party- verified EPD; providing comprehensive, uniform, and transparent details about a product’s composition and environmental impact throughout its lifecycle. Available in the fall of 2014.

Ask insightful questions before making decisions. Expect transparency.

For your free copies of the Life Cycle Assessment of Precast Concrete and the CPCI Sustainable Plant Program contact CPCI at: info@cpci.ca or (877) 937-2724 or visit www.cpci.ca/publications.

196 Bronson Avenue, Suite 100 Ottawa, ON K1R6H4 sabMag - SUMMER 2015

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sabMag - Summer 2015