The high performance building is designed to capture passive solar heat, reduce water usage by 40%, and incorporate locally sourced and recycled construction materials. Additional sustainability features of the LEED Gold-targeted building include extensive daylighting, vehicle charging stations and a to divert 75% of construction waste for recycling.
Due for completion in 2022, the new facility will move the British High Commission two kilometres north from a building it previously had occupied for 60 years in downtown Ottawa. The new location sits adjacent to the commissioner’s official residence on the Earnscliffe National Historic Site.
The new High Commission building provides a contemporary foil to Earnscliffe, taking subtle material cues from the home’s limestone facade while projecting a bold, forward-looking vision of modern Britain. Together the two buildings will consolidate the UK’s official functions in one efficient and compact campus. The building uses discreet security measures and landscaping to ensure safety while enhancing the surrounding public space and the serene, manicured gardens of Earnscliffe.
The project was secured as a joint effort between HOK’s Ottawa and London offices and was designed and detailed by the Ottawa team. The project team also included Pomerleau Inc., WYG and MACE/Tetratech.