Sustainability Report

The project did not pursue formal sustainability certifications. It focused instead on context-sensitive, pragmatic strategies based on materials, site reuse, and long-term adaptability.

Overview

• The structure is predominantly composed of locally sourced Northern Quebec wood, chosen for its renewable qualities and regional availability.
• Steel was introduced only where structurally necessary, minimising embodied carbon while ensuring long-term durability.
• White cedar cladding was specified instead of imported red cedar, reducing transport impacts by using a regional material.
• The site was previously occupied by an asbestos-contaminated building; a full decontamination and responsible recycling of remaining materials were carried out prior to construction.
• No formal embodied carbon modelling was conducted — decisions were guided by qualitative priorities of local sourcing and efficient material use.

Overview

• Solar-aware passive strategies were integrated to mitigate summer overheating and reduce reliance on mechanical cooling.
• A recessed southern facade reduces direct solar gain in summer while preserving daylight and passive heat in winter.
• A fixed west-facing timber screen filters glare and late-day solar heat.
• No active renewable energy systems were implemented; the emphasis was instead on minimising operational impact through passive design and careful material planning.
• While no detailed performance modelling was performed, the building’s daylighting and thermal strategies were conceived to lower operational energy demand.