The exposed architectural concrete substitutes fly ash for 30-50% of the cement, thereby reducing the energy needed to make concrete and diverting a waste product from landfills.
Fritted glass allows daylight through while reducing solar heat gain year round.
Glulam window backup is made from locally sourced FSC-certified wood.
Low- or no-VOC materials are used throughout the complex in order to improve indoor air quality.
In place of wood for exterior applications, the design team chose Prodema, a long-lasting, weatherproof, exterior cladding product made entirely from wood and forestry by-products.

Water Conservation

PHOTO: Perkins+Will Canada

90% of the project has a green roof or is landscaped, and an expansive green wall is located at the south entry of Blusson Hall. These plants and soils absorb rainfall and release it slowly back into the environment.
The green roofs also contribute significantly to storm water management.
Storm runoff is stored in a 19,000 gallon cistern buried under the courtyard, providing irrigation water during the dry summer months.
Low flow fixtures and low water demand landscaping also help reduce water use.

Other Features & Measures

PHOTO: NIC LEHOUX

Above all, the project strives to recapture Erickson Massey’s original vision for the campus and update it with new materials and modern methods.

The complex follows the original plan’s strong east-west orientation that runs along the spine of Burnaby mountain, which allows for a passive energy design strategy and for building occupants to enjoy the magnificent views.
The repetitive vertical elements seen in the original buildings are updated as exterior sunshades that respond to the individual facade’s solar orientation
The use of wood in public circulation and gathering areas is protected from deterioration due to exposure.