• Introduction
• Principles of ecodesign
• The site and concept
• Building Materials
• Energy Conservation
• References

Energy Conservation:

"The principles of energy and nutrient flows, common for all ecosystems, are applied to the design The unwanted products of the life cycle become the requirements for another" (Hough, 1995, p. 27).

The building is heated and cooled entirely by two heat pumps extracting energy from the adjacent lake via antifreeze continuously circulated through several loops of plastic piping.

All lighting is power smart and natural lighting is optimised.

Overheating is prevented by cedar and metal shades. Windows open to allow ventilation. Large windows openings provide an outdoor-indoor connection, that is aesthetically pleasant for visitors and the employees working in the building.

Roof drainage is designed to collect rainwater for site irrigation. Site drainage patterns conserve water by creating areas for collection.

Public areas are landscaped with native vegetation.

Sewage from the facilities will be treated on site in a series of engineered super-aerated lagoons.

The building satisfies the needs of its users but also works in harmony with nature, optimising the use of ressources and keeping energy costs down by incorporating renewable energy technologies.