Langara College Library

The Langara College Library represents this educational facility’s active commitment to sustainable development. This project adds 80,000 ft² of academic space to the campus, in the form of a three-story building housing classrooms, offices, study spaces, computer labs, and parking. A heavy green philosophy influenced the project with a focus on energy efficiency.

Integral Group provided mechanical engineering services to help Langara achieve its LEED Gold target. Some of the key sustainable features include wind-driven natural ventilation and an optimized building envelope. Thermal mass, building shape and orientation were used to create an aerodynamic building equipped with wind towers. A green roof and daylighting strategies were also implemented.

Significant energy savings were derived from tempering air supply by using an earth-tempered system combined with an earth source energy heat pump. Radiant heating and cooling were incorporated to further minimize energy consumption. An underfloor displacement ventilation system will further contribute to energy savings, while delivering 100% fresh outdoor air to improve the overall indoor environmental quality.

The combination of passive and active design elements has resulted in an estimated energy savings of more than 65% compared to the Model National Energy Code for Buildings. This building will serve as an excellent example of the possibilities of green design to the students, faculty and community alike.