Mathison Hall
Pursuing LEED Platinum
Design for Calgary's Climate
Thermal Energy Demand Intensity (TEDI) is an energy performance metric that measures the annual heat loss from a building’s envelope and ventilation. Building design that focuses on TEDI results in greater occupant comfort and minimizes a building’s demand for energy prior to investing in renewable energy. Mathison Hall’s façade concepts are strategically selected to minimize TEDI by eliminating air leakage, minimizing thermal bridging and taking advantage of passive heating opportunities.
Ventilation and Indoor Environment
Mathison Hall’s ventilation and comfort systems are designed to optimize comfort while minimizing energy use. Throughout the building, mechanical systems use water to move heating and cooling energy through the building. Not only are hydronic (water-based) systems more efficient, but they also take up less space in the building. As a result, ventilation systems can focus on providing that right amount of cool, fresh air to every space in the building minimizing fan energy and supporting occupant wellbeing.
Sawtooth Façade
An articulated sawtooth façade encircles Mathison Hall’s large central atrium, with both an aesthetic and functional purpose. The building will leverage this portion of the façade for natural ventilation and free cooling. An internal shading screen is designed to passively mix warm air from within the atrium with cool air entering the high level louvers. Radiant heating and cooling systems embedded in the floor minimize the energy used to keep the space comfortable over the course of a day.
Renewable Energy
Mathison Hall is projected to generate roughly 280 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year associated with energy required for heating, cooling, and electrifying the building. Roof-mounted photovoltaic panels on the main roof and above the sawtooth clerestory will generate clean energy while still allowing natural light from the skylights to filter through. If fully fit-out, the renewable energy generated by the building would offset more than half of the building’s annual emissions.