1.5 ConEd Learning Hours

8:30 a.m. ‐ 10:00 a.m.

Recladding older towers can make them more energy‐efficient, more comfortable, and more visually appealing. This approach can counteract the ‘flight  to quality’ trend among tenants who many vacate older buildings in favour of newer ones that are amenity‐rich and sustainable. Revitalizing older towers is a core competency of the presenters’ practice. Over the past several decades, their firm has developed and implemented a wide range of recladding options that dramatically improve not only tenant attraction and retention, but also energy performance. The WZMH Recladding Guide outlines the  ‘what, why, and how’ of recladding and introduces a suite of proven and customizable recladding solutions.

In this session, two case studies of completed recladdings in downtown Toronto will be presented. Steps in the design process include analyzing the  existing conditions, selecting appropriate systems, and detailing with the knowledge of construction means and methods for occupied buildings. Looking toward the future, recladding is integral to achieving Net Zero for existing buildings. Not only does an existing building represent significant ‘sunk carbon’ compared to new construction, but a building’s systems can also only be electrified if the envelope has excellent thermal performance. A third in‐progress case study will demonstrate the collaborative design process between architectural and sustainability consultants during the feasibility and conceptual phases for an upcoming Net Zero recladding project.

Learning Objectives

Jennifer Davis, OAA, NSAA, MRAIC, Strategic Business Development Lead, WZMH Architects

Jennifer Davis is experienced in the design and project management of residential, institutional, and commercial building types in Ontario and abroad. Prior to joining WZMH in 2021, she spearheaded multi‐unit residential projects for affordable housing clients such as Toronto Community Housing Corp. and Wigwamen Inc., Ontario’s largest urban Aboriginal housing provider. Through this work, she gained a strong understanding of renovation and overcladding initiatives, as well as experience with community engagement. Jennifer holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Toronto where she is a sessional lecturer. In 2019, she received the Centennial Fund from the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) Foundation for her early contributions to the architectural profession.

Nicholas Casciato, OAA, MRAIC, Principal, WZMH Architects

Since joining WZMH in 2005, Nicola Casciato has brought a high level of energy and creativity to the design of a number of award‐winning projects including the Durham Region Courthouse and Bay‐Adelaide Centre. He leads design teams on projects ranging from mixed‐use master plans to highly technical tower reclads. As a member of London’s Urban Design Review Panel, he contributes expert feedback on development applications and municipal developments. Nicola has a Master of Architecture from the University of Illinois and a bachelor’s degree from Toronto Metropolitan University. In recognition of his outstanding contribution to the firm, Nicola was appointed a principal of WZMH in 2010.

Harrison Chan, OAA, MRAIC, Principal, WZMH Architects

Harrison Chan has been responsible for numerous high‐profile, large‐scale, and complex projects at WZMH including recladding, adaptive reuse, full building retrofits, and new construction. His client portfolio includes government agencies, utility companies, and established development companies across Canada. Recent recladding projects include the 120 & 130 Richmond Adelaide Centre and 121 King St. West. His working methodology balances design sensitivity and technical proficiency. He holds an architectural technology degree from Montréal’s Vanier College and a bachelor of architecture degree from the University of Toronto. Harrison joined WZMH in 1996 and became a Principal
in 2013.