Story at a glance:
- Biophilic design elements like a moss wall were among the updates made for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.
- CSV Architects updated the building in Ottawa to provide modern office spaces and collaborative areas.
- The design team incorporated wood-grain materials and bright colors throughout the design.
A green wall and hanging plants quite literally bring life to the recently renovated Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) building in the historic Byward Market of Ottawa.
CSV Architects transformed the 18,000-square-foot building across three years for a phased floor-by-floor renovation.
From updating layouts of individual offices to incorporating “work pod” configurations, the FCM renovation increased the potential for workspaces throughout the building. CSV received a LEED-CI Gold certification.
Local artists were engaged to bring bold graphic elements into the common spaces. Photo by Krista Jahnke Photography
The design features a bright, clean color palette and incorporates wood-grain materials, plants, and a moss wall.
The renovated building’s energy consumption is now 100% offset by green power, RECs, and carbon offsets. This energy performance is expected to include a 9.5% cost savings per year. The building’s water use is also reduced by 35% due to water efficiency changes.
Photo by Krista Jahnke Photography
Workstations are set up close to the exterior windows to provide good views and daylighting to all staff. Daylight harvesting helps reduce energy consumption in the space by dimming the lights when there is sufficient daylight. Occupancy sensors were also used on lights to shut off when employees leave a room.
Bird friendly glazing was used on windows to protect birds from injury.
Photo by Krista Jahnke Photography
Photo by Krista Jahnke Photography
A moss wall spans the length of the entrance area. Photo by Krista Jahnke Photography
