University of Alberta University Commons
Academic: Post-Secondary - Edmonton, AB, Canada
University of Alberta University Commons
Academic: Post-Secondary - Edmonton, AB, Canada
University of Alberta University Commons
Academic: Post-Secondary - Edmonton, AB, Canada
University of Alberta University Commons
Academic: Post-Secondary - Edmonton, AB, Canada
University of Alberta University Commons
Location
Edmonton, AB, Canada
Owner/Client
University of Alberta
Completion
2022
Role
Electrical Engineering Consulting Services and Specialty Lighting Design
Awards
- 2022 Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) - Northern Lighting Award for Interior Lighting Design
Originally constructed in 1921, the University Commons building was the original home of the faculty of medicine and the first building on campus to have auditoriums. Home to a variety of departments over the years (including the Slowpoke Nuclear Reactor) the heritage structure required renovations to adapt and repurpose the space for a modern university.
The redevelopment of the building includes a seven-storey glass addition to the back of the building which will include rooftop and façade integrated solar/photovoltaic arrays, high efficiency mechanical and electrical systems, and a triple glazed envelope. The new addition will be home to a four-storey atrium as well as a smudging room for use by the university’s indigenous students and faculty.
New lighting is being designed for the exterior façade, surrounding landscape, and interior of the heritage building. Designed to create a feeling of history and place, the lighting will reference works by renaissance artist Piranesi.