The Centennial College A-Building Expansion and Renovation is Canada's pioneering LEED Gold, zero-carbon, WELL certified, mass timber higher-education facility, seamlessly blending Indigenous perspectives with sustainability. Rooted in Truth and Reconciliation principles, the design harmonizes Indigenous wisdom with modern architecture. Sustainably harvested mass timber, innovative building skin, and solar panels contribute to the net-zero carbon goal, establishing a benchmark for environmental stewardship. Inclusivity is prioritized through flexible design, all-gender facilities, and accessible features. The project, fostering educational excellence, sets a precedent for sustainable and inclusive design, impacting students and the educational community positively.
Building Orientation & Layout
The project stands as a transformative campus gateway, seamlessly connecting to the street edge and enhancing pedestrian connections. As it connects to the street edge, the design revitalizes the campus corner with native plantings, forming a symbolic gateway that fosters community engagement. This integration, coupled with the forecourt's amphitheater and flexible outdoor spaces, not only enriches the public realm but also communicates the vital importance of reconciling Indigenous and Western cultures. The project is a beacon of inclusivity, cultural significance, and environmental sustainability, making a profound contribution to its unique location and fostering a sense of community.
Energy
The innovative A-Building Expansion sets a new standard for sustainable higher-education facilities. As Canada's first LEED Gold, zero-carbon, and WELL-certified project, it achieves a 40% energy savings compared to conventional structures. The facility boasts an annual energy cost of $14/m²/year. Integral to this energy efficiency is the incorporation of on-site renewable energy, generating an impressive 69,000 kWh/year. The mass timber construction, inspired by Indigenous traditions, significantly reduces embodied carbon emissions. With efficient mechanical systems, solar panels, and indigenous plantings, the project attains a net-zero carbon footprint and harmonizes with the land. Prioritizing a high-quality interior environment, it reflects a holistic approach to environmental responsibility, marking a profound contribution to sustainability in higher education.
Total Energy Use: 1,318,887 ekWh/yr
EUI = 109 kWh/m2/yr
Materials & Construction
The design thoughtfully integrates Indigenous-inspired geometry, featuring parallelogram and trapezoidal aluminum wall panels and composite wood veneer panels, contributing to a visually striking façade while minimizing environmental impact. The commitment to sustainable construction practices is further showcased through large triple-glazed aluminum-framed curtain walls, revealing the exposed mass timber structure. The building's structural composition, with a ground floor of cast-in-place concrete and upper five floors utilizing glulam post and beam construction with CLT floor panels, exemplifies a conscious effort to minimize embodied carbon.
Life/Adaptability
The project's sustainability is deeply rooted in its respect for the environment, Indigenous traditions, and a holistic approach to design. The A-Building Expansion is Canada's first LEED Gold, zero carbon, WELL certified, mass timber, higher-education facility. These certifications reflect the project's adherence to rigorous sustainability standards and showcase its commitment to providing a healthy and environmentally responsible learning environment.
Community
Rooted in Truth and Reconciliation, the project integrates Indigenous perspectives with environmental stewardship. Sustainability is evident in its LEED Gold, zero-carbon, and WELL certifications, showcasing a commitment to a healthy learning environment. The Mi’kmaq concept of "Two-Eyed Seeing" and inspiration from Anishinaabe Wigwams guide a creative design approach, exemplified by the dynamic building skin. Beyond innovation, inclusivity and accessibility take precedence, exceeding local regulations. The project serves as a transformative campus gateway, fostering community engagement through biologically indigenous plantings and establishing a holistic benchmark for higher education architecture.
Project Team
Architecture and Design team:
Craig Applegat
Chen Cohen
Juan Carlos Portuese
Jason D’Altroy
Farah Al Amin
Camille Ganuelas
Kelly Demings
Mel Faifman
Leo Decanay
Otto Ojo
Mark Heinrichs
Maya Jarrah
Structural:
RJC Engineering
Mechanical and Electrical:
Smith + Andersen
Civil:
WalterFedy
Contractor:
EllisDon Corporation
Interiors:
DIALOG Ontario Inc.
Landscape:
Vertechs Design
Indigenous Design Consultant:
Smoke Architecture
Sustainability Consultant and Energy Modelling:
RDH
Photography:
James Brittain
