The University of Calgary Energy Environment Experiential Learning (EEEL) building is designed to be student-centric and provides hands-on and experiential learning opportunities for students. The 26,200 square metres, five storey facility provides instructional space for expanded programs in energy and environment, new laboratories for engineering, biology and chemistry, as well as space for faculty and staff. EEEL is a certified LEED® Platinum building.
EEEL’s theme of “science on display” means teaching spaces are available for view through generous internal and external glazing. The building’s structural, mechanical and electrical systems are all exposed for teaching and demonstration opportunities.
A fundamental goal of the design team, led by DIALOG with Perkins + Will Canada, was to provide a highly sustainable building and landscape, a landmark which brings a sense of pride to students, faculty and the community at large. The design team’s overarching effort was to minimize EEEL’s use of energy, water and material resources wherever feasible and maximize indoor environmental quality.
A key component of the design was the access to and harvesting of daylight. In order to achieve this goal, a combination of large perimeter openings, a central clerestory and light well through the centre of the building, and glazed corridors to the teaching spaces were incorporated into the design.
An integral component of EEEL’s daylighting strategy in the central core is the “belly” form below the glazed clerestory. The belly is a large light scoop at the top of the clerestory. The curved shape drives light deep into the heart of the building, allowing the labs and classrooms to have access to natural light from both the interior and exterior.
EEEL also uses innovative European based low energy approaches to condition spaces, featuring exhaust air heat/cool recovery, displacement ventilation and radiant heating/cooling to distribute fresh air and enhanced indoor air quality and occupant comfort.
In addition, EEEL’s water use strategy not only allows it to reduce its overall consumption of water resources, but most especially, minimizes the use of potable water resources. Through rerouting roof drainage and waste water in the building, EEEL is able to reduce its potable water consumption by 64% when compared to a conventional building.
