Tsuu T'ina Child and Family Services Office
Additional Info
Award Winner : ATCO Sustainable Communities Inc. (ASCI)
Architectural Excellence : We paid special attention to the traditional cultural elements that hold significance to the First Nation who commissioned this project. The red Paint Pots of the Vermillion River and the circle symbolizes the eternal continuity of life, in addition to the incorporation of elements like wood timbers to support the round structure and stone surrounding the building. The building functions as a place of healing, support and education, making the integration of these elements equally important as the space planning. The dynamic layout of four modular buildings, unified by the circling sentinel of heavy timber and wrapped by a strong band of crimson corrugated metal, suggests security and comfort. Usage of Hardy Panel cladding with vertical and horizontal reveals nudges the structure into modernity and provides a durable exterior. The facility of 11 offices, boardroom, sky lit corridor, kitchen and service rooms is nestled in an expanse of trees.
Cost Energy Effectiveness : The modular facility was manufactured in Lethbridge, AB and transported to site in 24’ wide units. Offsite construction allowed for the site services and foundation to be installed during the manufacturing of the units for a leaner construction process. Approximately three months of construction time was saved by utilizing modular construction, allowing this Nation to meet the needs of its community sooner. In an effort to create employment opportunities and keep money within the community, local trades were utilized for foundations, roadwork and the parking lot.
Design Firm Name : ATCO Sustainable Communities
Occupied Date : 9/3/2013
Production Start Date : 5/1/2013
Project Location City : Calgary
Project Location State Name : AB
Technical Innovation : Special features of this facility include a low-slope roof system attained using engineered trusses and an EPDM membrane, skylights in the corridors, and a state of the art rolling filing system with reinforced floor joists for added support. The low slope of the roof posed a difficulty in the manufacturing environment due to the requirement for the apex to be continuous and seamless at the unit-to-unit connections. The solution for this was utilizing the EPDM manufacturer’s expansion joint system along mating wall locations to prevent low points. Large windows and high, bright ceilings maximize the natural light within the facility and limit the amount of artificial light required on a daily basis. The electrical system was designed for the possibility of building expansion, and the entire parking lot lighting and plug-in system are managed from the electrical room for ease of control and programming.
Total Square Feet : 3910
Category : Permanent: Office: under 10,000 sq. ft.