York University Computer Science Building
Toronto, Canada
Architects Alliance

A high-tech facility becomes the first "green" building in Ontario

© Steven Evan

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This warm and welcoming facility is a showcase for the university’s computer science and applied and pure science faculty, as well as the university’s Centre for Vision Research. A commitment to sustainable design allowed the architect to develop the first green building in Ontario. There are three architectural zones in the building—a three-story bar building, a courtyard building, and a lecture hall. Program components are distributed among these zones to promote energy efficiency and student-faculty interaction. A double-height linear atrium between the bar building and other zones is the primary north-south circulation spine. The courtyard brings fresh air and sunlight deep into the building, and allows east-west air circulation with the lecture hall to the south. A highly refined steel and glass canopy provides year-round weather protection.

A central atrium captures heat, and thermal chimneys on the roof vent overheated air. A large amount of operable perimeter glazing allows building occupants to self-regulate the environmental controls in their spaces. Computer laboratories are placed on the north facade to capture efficiencies in energy consumption and communications systems. Faculty and research areas are stacked in a flexible wing that parallels the main circulation space. Overhang, sunshades, and a large continuous canopy on the south exposure reduce glare, as well as the tonnage of the cooling system. Sawtoothed facades on the east and west exposures redirect incident solar energy to the south-east and north-west respectively, reducing tonnage and cooling energy. The core atrium supplies natural daylight to the offices and labs arranged around its perimeter.

A planted roof absorbs and retains rain water; excess runoff which cannot be retained is collected and stored in a rooftop tank. The design incorporates recycled material, such as reclaimed brick, and a 50 percent fly-ash/cement mixture.

Formal name of Project:
York University Computer Science Building

Location:
Toronto, Canada

Gross square footage:
101,400 sq. ft.

Total construction cost:
$17.8 million

Owner:
York University

Architect:
Architects Alliance
317 Adelaide Street West, Suite 205
Toronto, ON M5V 1P9
t: +416.907.7247
f: +416.593.4911
mmcintyre@architectsalliance.com