Challenge(s)

Good practice

Apply bioclimatic architectural principles

Numerous municipalities across the globe have embraced bioclimatic design principles as a strategic endeavour to curtail energy consumption and ameliorate their ecological footprint. This method necessitates a re-evaluation of architectural forms and their harmonization with the adjacent milieu. It is premised on the optimization of distinctive local attributes and prospects, which encompasses the regional climate, available materials, and the environment. The port authority of Trondheim constructed a waterfront structure keeping in mind climate change adaptation policies. The project has a triple objective: to optimize the generation of clean energy within the structure, to reduce its operational energy demands to a minimum, and to create an inviting environment for both its occupants and the wider public.

Cas d'étude

The Vancouver Convention Centre, completed in 2009, is a cornerstone of the urban ecology strategy for the city’s waterfront, created to address the aim of becoming « the world’s greenest city » by 2020. It is set in 14 acres of land in the former industrial port sector, and 8 acres above the water. LMN Architects, the firm behind the project, claim the complex was designed as a building, an urban space, a park and an ecosystem. One of its most striking features is the vast green roof, which has become an iconic sight in Vancouver. The roof was designed by PWL Partnership Landscape Architects. Covering almost six acres, it is planted with around 400,000 native species and is home to the 240,000 bees that provide the restaurant with honey. The undulating wave design of the roof echoes the nearby mountains, but also allows natural drainage. Marine wildlife is also encouraged to thrive by the installation of skirting around the building’s supporting columns. Heating and air-conditioning are provided by seawater pumps running on hydropower, a system that means the building uses 60% less energy than others of its kind. Water consumption is also reduced by 70% thanks to a recycling system, while an on-site installation filters and recycles waste water, which can then be used to irrigate plants or for other non-potable purposes. These sustainable solutions have garnered a host of awards, including double Leed Platinum certification, in the New Construction category in 2010, and later in the Operations & Maintenance category in 2017.

More information: LMN Architects

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