Child Development Centre
LEED Platinum
Green Building Highlights
Completed in 2007, the Child Development Centre was the first LEED Platinum building in Alberta. The 15,500 square meter building hosts a child care facility, as well as research focusing on child development. This heavily instrument building allowed for research on the building’s energy performance post-occupancy.
Solar Panels
Solar panels were placed across the south façade of the building, taking advantage of the sun to produce up to 65,000 kWh of electricity annually. They also serve as shades for the building by providing passive temperature control. Externally mounted shades reduce the building’s cooling load as the panels absorb and dissipate outdoor heat without it ever entering the building.
Landscape
The mixture of native vegetation and outdoor spaces creates a place for occupants to enjoy nature. The outdoor space encourages social and physical activity which enhances occupant well-being. Additionally, since the site uses trees and shrubbery native to Alberta, there is no need for irrigation to maintain the landscape. This greatly reduces the water demands of the site.
Ventilation System
Fresh air is delivered to the building through displacement ventilation. Cool air is introduced through under-floor ventilation where it displaces warmer stale air in the building creating a comfortable environment for occupants. This system also saves energy by requiring less energy to mix the fresh air into a room.