Elbow Park Elementary School

The Calgary flood of 2013 left the original Elbow Park Elementary School structurally unsound and the building unsafe for occupancy. The existing building was replaced to allow for new main and second-floor classrooms, a library, administration offices, and a new gymnasium — all while keeping the original 1926 façade.

The project included the electrical design of a new electrical service, main distribution and all sub-distribution branch circuit panels, motor control, interior and exterior lighting, general power devices, public address system, and fire alarm and security.

One of the fun design challenges was the re-imaging of the old library, dubbed the ‘Harry Potter’ room due to its exposed woodwork in the ceiling. The lighting in this space was made to look like floating candles, similar to the movie for which this room was named. This new building is a bright and colourful place where students can enjoy the mix of old and new.