Aiming for a Canada Green Building Council (CAGBC) Zero Carbon Building Standard design certification, the design concept for a mixed-use residential project in Kingston, Ont., reveals a mix of mechanical, electrical, and structural strategies to achieve the project’s sustainability goals.

The goals range from being conditioned with a geo-exchange heating and cooling heat pump system, decentralized heat recovery ventilation systems, and an envelope with very high thermal performance—all working synergistically to optimize energy consumption whilst improving thermal comfort and air quality inside.

At six storeys tall, 600 Princess is to be in Kingston’s Williamsville neighbourhood. ENFORM Architects, in association with Lemay, are responsible for the architecture of the project; the project is being developed by Podium Developers; the mechanical, electrical, building energy modelling for the project is by Integral; the planning is by Fotenn Planning + Design, Paterson Group; structural engineering by RJC Engineers; landscape design by Henry Kortekaas and Associates Inc.; and traffic/parking design by IBI Group.

This 229-bedroom, mixed-use residential project is ideal for families and students alike. The building comprises 176 units, as well as 150 m² (1615 sf) of corner retail space on the ground floor, with five live-work units. These are workspace and living space hybrids fitted into the side facing Princess Street, ideal for start-ups and freelancers.

600 Princess’ layouts are designed with future flexibility in mind, whether to address growing families or shifting housing market conditions, several units can be merged into larger ones as well.

Beyond its zero-carbon aims, 600 Princess is also designed for the health and wellness of its occupants and visitors as it targets a two-star Fitwel certification. With natural ventilation and light coming in through operable windows and social and sports areas on its common roof—plus a unique dog-friendly courtyard—the project encourages activity. As pedestrian-forward concept, it has active access to the city surrounding it with proximity to the downtown core, adjacent parks, a farmers’ market, and local shops and dining.