Les Terrasses de la Chaudière

The design utilizes a prefabricated modular system incorporating cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels as the key structural element to support the high-performance building envelope composed of unitized curtainwall and aluminum cladding. The use of CLT, a highly sustainable product, speaks to the area’s history as a lumber-town, and will be fully exposed to the building’s interior where occupants can enjoy the natural beauty of the exposed wood surfaces. The CLT will also be partially visible from the exterior as it overlaps the glazing at the edge of each opening, creating a visual depth to the facade. Optically, clear glass featuring UV-based bird strike mitigation measures will allow pedestrians to see the rich materiality of the original brick-clad interior surfaces.

In addition to collaborating with the design team to evaluate various facade options, the mechanical and electrical engineering team was responsible for surveying existing conditions and identifying all systems that would be affected by the envelope replacement. To the extent possible, HVAC components, BAS controls, fire alarm, communications and lighting elements were to be carefully removed and preserved for reuse once the facade installation is completed. All building systems on the roofs were to be removed and replaced where required to accommodate the architectural remodeling of the spaces.

The project has reached a major milestone, receiving design approval from the National Capital Commission, following presentations to the Advisory Committee on Planning, Design and Realty (ACPDR), which features industry leaders in architecture, planning and design. Recently appointed construction manager PCL is assisting the project team with pre-construction services.