Fit-up renovation for the Bedford Institute of Oceanography

Strickland Building

Ensconced between the buildings of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, the Bedford Institute of Oceanography’s (BIO) Strickland building was an aging structure in need of revitalization. Dating back to 1975, it was originally designed to accommodate laboratories on three floors. It was a relic of its time—small windows, short floor-to-ceiling ratios, and not suitable for an open office space environment.

Our job? To design a total fit-up renovation with new mechanical systems, new electrical communications systems, and a complete building envelope replacement. This necessitated deconstructing all original elements except the stairwells, elevator shafts, and some mechanical and electrical shafts.

After the renovation, Strickland boasts large floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning views of the Halifax Harbour and the green BIO courtyards. The new design features radiant heating panels that serve as light shelves (which are designed to bounce the natural light throughout the space), and there are many design elements that speak to the aquatic nature of work carried out at the BIO.

Aside from its good looks, the new Strickland Building has been designed with sustainability, accessibility, and collaboration in mind—achieving four Green Globes (a leading sustainability rating system).