University of Alberta - University Commons, Redevelopment
Academic: Post-Secondary - Edmonton, AB, Canada
University of Alberta - University Commons, Redevelopment
Academic: Post-Secondary - Edmonton, AB, Canada
University of Alberta - University Commons, Redevelopment
Academic: Post-Secondary - Edmonton, AB, Canada
University of Alberta - University Commons, Redevelopment
Academic: Post-Secondary - Edmonton, AB, Canada
University of Alberta - University Commons, Redevelopment
Academic: Post-Secondary - Edmonton, AB, Canada
University of Alberta - University Commons, Redevelopment
Academic: Post-Secondary - Edmonton, AB, Canada
University of Alberta - University Commons, Redevelopment
Academic: Post-Secondary - Edmonton, AB, Canada
University of Alberta - University Commons, Redevelopment
Academic: Post-Secondary - Edmonton, AB, Canada
University of Alberta - University Commons, Redevelopment
Academic: Post-Secondary - Edmonton, AB, Canada
University of Alberta - University Commons, Redevelopment
Academic: Post-Secondary - Edmonton, AB, Canada
University of Alberta - University Commons, Redevelopment
Academic: Post-Secondary - Edmonton, AB, Canada
University of Alberta - University Commons, Redevelopment
Academic: Post-Secondary - Edmonton, AB, Canada
University of Alberta - University Commons, Redevelopment
Academic: Post-Secondary - Edmonton, AB, Canada
University of Alberta - University Commons, Redevelopment
Location
Edmonton, AB, Canada
Owner/Client
University of Alberta
Completion
2022
Role
Electrical Engineering Consulting Services and Specialty Lighting Design
Sustainability
Targeting LEED® Silver
Awards
- 2022 Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) - Northern Lighting Award for Interior Lighting Design
Originally constructed in 1922, the University Commons building was the first on campus to house auditoriums and served as the original home of the Faculty of Medicine. Over the years, it has been home to various departments. To adapt the heritage structure for modern university needs, extensive renovations were required.
The $149M redevelopment included a 41,800 m² seven-storey glass addition, featuring rooftop and façade-integrated solar photovoltaic arrays, high-efficiency mechanical and electrical systems, and a triple-glazed envelope. This new addition houses a four-storey atrium, a ceremony room for Indigenous students and faculty, and core and shell spaces like a 15kV Electrical Vault, main communications room, 2-400kW generators, and a 200kW solar PV system.
Interior and exterior upgrades included façade and landscape lighting, designed to evoke a sense of history, with lighting inspired by Renaissance artist Piranesi. The atrium lighting was designed to mimic natural sunbeams, creating a welcoming “Campus Crossroads” for students, faculty, and staff.
The project also involved updates to the 1922 heritage building’s interior spaces, including lecture theatres and gathering areas. The design targeted LEED Silver certification, emphasizing energy-efficient systems and renewable technologies.
Ci2 Group
