Photo courtesy GRC Architects Inc.
The Ottawa Paramedic Service Headquarters (OSPH) is the first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-certified facility in Ottawa. It is also the first and only headquarters for paramedic services in the National capital region. The 9290-m2 (100,000 sf), two-storey, state-of-the-art facility consolidated staff and operations from different locations of the city.
The design of program requirements, architectural character, and sustainable design were integrated as a holistic approach. The energy-efficient glazing system yielded an excellent solar co-efficient. The quality and esthetics of the glass also contributed to the overall corporate identity expressed in the architecture of the building. The high-speed garage doors benefit the daily operation as well as significantly reduce loss of heated or cooled air from the building.
OPSH was designed to post-disaster requirements with innovative approaches to building systems leading to efficiencies in heating and ventilation, lighting, and heat reclaim systems. Some of the sustainable elements include:
- durable building envelope;
- energy-efficient glazing;
- good indoor air quality (IAQ) with use of products low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and formaldehyde-free;
- 30 per cent reduction in energy use;
- high-efficient lighting with occupancy sensor;
- exterior views in 90 per cent of interior spaces; and
- diversion of 75 per cent of construction waste from landfills.
Project Team
Architect: GRC Architects Inc.
Tenant: City of Ottawa/Ottawa Paramedics
Owner: Forum Leasehold Partners Inc.
Design-Builder: Aecon Westeinde Alliance
LEED Consultant: Enermodal Engineering
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