Chief Matthews School
Additional Info
Award Winner : NRB Modular Solutions
Architectural Excellence : Old Massett is an Indigenous community in Haida Gwaii. Its surrounding waters of southern Alaska required careful design consideration to accommodate logistical challenges of building in this remote location. Design consideration was also given to include Indigenous culture and heritage. The 8037 sq ft project is an important and much-needed addition to the Chief Matthews School and comprises 14 modules. The project includes classroom spaces, washrooms, offices and a walkway link to the existing school building. The project features additional insulation for warmth and soundproofing and classroom interiors feature functional finishes to provide a comfortable learning environment. Additional support space, such as the meal prep area, maximizes the space’s functionality. The appealing shape of the exterior design fits seamlessly into the community and is sensitive to Indigenous culture and heritage.
Cost Energy Effectiveness : Modular construction provided a cost-effective solution for the Client given the small, remote community of Old Massett. Completion of the modules in the NRB Kamloops facility alleviated the impact of the shortage and high costs of labour in the region, and the risks of potential inefficiencies of interruptions and delays given unpredictable weather. Most of the construction being completed in a controlled manufacturing facility reduced project risk and the impacts of extreme climate and limited access. By using off-site construction methods, the Client was able to realize an accelerated timeline as compared to traditional construction. The project has a strong focus on energy efficiency, which provides long-term value and cost effectiveness for the owner, including features such as LED fixtures and energy-certified windows and doors. Modular construction was the best choice to ensure cost certainty and a high-quality project for the children in the community to learn and thrive.
Occupied Date : 11/30/2020
Production Start Date : 10/8/2020
Project Location City : Haida Gwaii
Project Location State Name : British Columbia
Technical Innovation : Due to the remote location and cold climate, the building has to be adaptable to cold weather, snow, rain, and extreme temperature changes. To address these requirements, the project includes several thermal performance upgrades, from energy-certified windows and doors to extra insulation in all walls to boost R-values. Other features included high-efficiency HVAC systems for heating and warmth retention. The addition of these thermal upgrades throughout has increased the R-value of the walls and several other energy efficient and environmentally conscious elements were incorporated for sustainability.
Total Square Feet : 8037