Natural Resources Canada relocated its CANMET Materials Technology Laboratory (MTL) from Ottawa to Hamilton to be closer to the steel and manufacturing sectors it serves through metallurgical research and testing. It saw the opportunity to take a giant leap forward and become a showpiece of sustainable design. The facility was certified LEED Platinum in 2013, the third research lab to achieve this rating in Canada and the only one of its type.
JURY COMMENTS:
We like how the different elevations address the climatic response. It is a thoughtful building, and not the typical sort that attains high performance. The interiors were very carefully resolved, with a clean, elegant, and obviously functional approach. This is probably a very economical building. There was thought put into solar control, the solar thermal space and photo-voltaic systems. The displacement ventilation system in the office and laboratory spaces saves energy and provides comfort.
BY THE NUMBERS:
Lighting power density (watts per square-foot): 0.60 watts/sf
Reduction of regulated potable water: 92%
Total EUI (kBtu per square-foot per year): 95
Net EUI (kBtu per square-foot per year): 87
Percent Reduction from National Median EUI for Building Type: 77%
