Exterior of Environmental Science and Chemistry Building at University of Toronto Scarborough

2018 OAA Award Design Excellence Finalist

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Every year the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA) celebrates the excellent work of Ontario-based architects through the OAA Awards. Project selection is based on architecture which raise standards in design, sustainability, functionality, and overall quality of life. From a pool of 111 award submissions, we are proud to be part of a project which placed in the top 20 finalists.

Footprint was engaged as the sustainability consultant on the University of Toronto’s Environmental Science and Chemistry Building, providing energy modelling, measurement and verification services. Smith + Andersen was also engaged as the mechanical and electrical consultant.

Congratulations to the client, design, and construction teams for creating sustainable solutions which far surpassed the typical expectations for a facility of this type, and to Diamond Schmitt in particular on their OAA Award nomination!

For a complete list of impressive OAA nominees, click here.

University of Toronto’s Environmental Science & Chemistry Building – Toronto, Ontario

Gross Floor Area: 110,000 sq.ft.
Architects: Diamond Schmitt Architects
Completion Year: 2015
Footprint Services: Energy Modelling and Measurement and Verification Services
S+A Services: Mechanical and Electrical

“The building brings a new approach to laboratory design—open, transparent, adaptable and flexible while providing a safe work environment.”– Jury

A proud recipient of OECA Merit Award 2017, this LEED Gold certified project is a true design feat, as it carves a new path for institutional buildings that are both modern and functional. This captivating five-storey facility, includes a central atrium, laboratories, offices, and meeting rooms. The building – designed for the Facility of Environmental Science – fittingly demonstrates sustainable solutions. According to UTSC’s 2016 measured reports, the building uses half the energy intake of similar facilities located across the campus.

Footprint provided energy modelling, measurement and verification services. The building features a geothermal hybrid system, as well as a cascade air strategy which circulates air from the non-lab wing, through the atrium and into the lab side to reduce energy use. The building showcases numerous other sustainable solutions and is recognized as a cutting-edge sustainable facility.