Algonquin College Advanced Technology Centre
Nepean, Ontario, Canada
Griffiths Rankin Cook Architects

A creative approach to "big box" design

© Adrian Searle

For more photos click on 'photos & drawings' above. To see the people and products behind this project click on 'people & products.'

This three-story building houses the school of technology, incorporating 30 laboratories for computer studies, electronics, telecommunications, GIS and Photonics, 18 theory classrooms ranging from 24 to 120 seats, and a multi-media amphitheater. The program of the space balances the need for open-access computer rooms and offices for teaching and support staff.

The combination of a tight budget and numerous program requirements led the team to a "big box" rectangular plan for the building. To address its massing, the façade is broken up into smaller areas of curtain wall, metal cladding, buffed brick, and charcoal block. These design choices help to scale the building and address important corners and entrances. In addition, they allude to high-tech, pixilated images, such as punch cards and data streams.

Flexibility was considered in every aspect of the building plan. An integrated approach to design ensured the provision of adequate capacity, accessible service space, and extra service space. Furniture and management systems, as well as the programming of spaces, allowed for potential changes to the design. Working with the owner, consultants, major trades, and various users helped attain maximum value.

Location:
Nepean, Ontario, Canada

Gross square footage:
115,873 sq. ft.

Total construction cost:
$13.7 million

Owner:
Algonquin College of Applied Arts & Technology
Mr. Mike Rushton, Director, Physical Resources
1385 Woodroffe Avenue
Nepean, Ontario K2G 1V8
tel: (613) 727-4723 x 5006
fax: (613) 727-7601

Architect:
Griffiths Rankin Cook Architects
47 Clarence Street, Suite 401
Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 9K1
tel: (613) 241-8203 fax: (613) 241-4180
email: info@grcarchitects.com
www.grcarchitects.com