Climate Action Case Studies

Based on estimates from various sources, approximately one-third of Canada’s greenhouse emissions come from the built environments where people live, work, and play. Within urban areas, that number is much higher.

As buildings are key contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, the creation of a better, more efficient built environment, both through new construction and renovation work, must form a significant part of the solution on the path to achieving emissions reduction targets. The case studies included on this page are a collection of work submitted by OAA members, demonstrating how the architecture profession can build better and advance climate action.

The OAA case studies are intended for broad educational or informational purposes , showcasing models in climate performance. These case studies are illustrative of the possibilities for projects, but any reliance on material posted in the case study is at your own risk.

Do you have any projects that are exemplary models in climate performance or showcase how the architecture profession can build better? If so, please submit a case study for consideration using the button below. If you have any questions or comments, email oaamail@oaa.on.ca.

SUBMIT CASE STUDY

The OAA does not represent, warrant, or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information, and the language or opinions stated do not necessarily represent those of the Association or its governing Council. To read the full terms for use of this website, click here.

Back

2019/Jul/06

The Springdale Library and Komagata Maru Park

Instituitional

|

2019

Project Location: Brampton, Ontario

Project Architect(s): RDH Architects Inc.

Project Owner(s): The City of Brampton and The Brampton Library

Project Completion Date: 2019/Jul/06

Building Gross Floor Area: 25,080 sq. ft.

Energy Use Intensity (EUI) (ekWh/m²/year) : 178.5 kWh/m2

Greenhouse Gas Intensity (GHGI) (tCO²e): -

rdh architects inc.|climate

The Springdale Library and Komagata Maru Park in Brampton, designed by RDH Architects, aspires to create an inclusive gathering place, a progressive architectural expression in the suburbs, and a point of pride for the city. The concept for this project is to establish a new type of suburban landscape through the organically shaped perimeter of the building; the creation of an undulating topography of fluid ceilings and mountainous green roof; and the sectional variation of the ground plane. The new Springdale branch provides Brampton with an emboldened organic presence and a sustainable public resource for the community.

In an attempt to connect this building to the landscape on which it sits, the concept for the building utilizes two primary devices: first, the notion of an organic, undulating perimeter condition of building and courtyard; and second, the creation of an artificial topography within the flat landscape of the park; within the floor slab of the interior; and within the ceiling and roof plane of the library structure. The office explored an array of new complex geometries, digital software, and constructional systems to aid in the development of the design and construction of this library.

Building Orientation and Layout

The building’s immediate suburban neighbourhood is primarily suburban residential context to the north, west and south, and suburban commercial context to the east. As the site has proximity to both Bramalea and sandalwood, there is clear vehicular access to the site. These two thoroughfares also provide public bus transportation and sidewalks to promote pedestrian activity. A natural ravine curves along the northern and western boundaries of the site. This ravine exists as part of a larger system of green corridors which naturally occur through the greater municipal area.

Energy

The Springdale Library and Komagata Maru Park has been designed to achieve LEED Gold certification. The design integrates the following sustainable initiatives: geothermal heating and cooling, low-VOC materials, incorporation of custom ceramic pattern that expands and contracts to deal with varying degrees of solar radiation on each side of the building, extensive green roofs, planted/shaded parking areas, bio-swales, use of locally available materials and vegetation, and a rainwater collection system that provides greywater for toilets, reflecting pools, irrigation, and the community splash pad.