Extensive energy modeling key to efficient student residence design

Coast Mountain College New Student Residence - Energy Modeling

Constructed in the 1970s, many of Coast Mountain College’s existing buildings were functioning beyond their useful life. With funding from the Homes for BC program encouraging construction of affordable housing options for British Columbians including students, the College set out to replace four of their aging student residences. Prime consultant hcma Architecture + Design retained us to provide building envelope and energy modeling services for the volumetric modular and mass timber hybrid student residence under a fast-tracked design-build model.

We conducted extensive energy modeling and rigorous air tightness testing to help the team deliver a high-performing building envelope, which contributes significantly to the new residence being net zero ready. Additionally, we undertook a thermal component modeling to input assembly performance and overall thermal bridging impact into the energy model. Since the building uses two very different types of construction, we had to analyze many more assemblies than in conventional construction.

The new three-story Wii Gyemsiga Siwilaawksat student housing building embraces First Nations culture and exceeds goals for durability and energy efficiency. The structure satisfies the BC Wood First Act and exceeds BC Energy Step Code 4 energy efficiency in a particularly cold, northern coastal climate (Zone 6).