City of Hamilton

Woodward Environmental Laboratory and Administrative Building

Opportunity

The City of Hamilton’s central sewage treatment plant required a new environmental laboratory building, a dedicated space to support its staff in the testing and monitoring of the municipal water and wastewater. The renovation provided the opportunity to upgrade its surroundings as well as incorporate the latest technology.

Response

The one-storey building consists of four distinct laboratory zones along with administration offices for Plant Operations and the Compliance and Regulation Divisions. The floor plan and program allow for future flexibility as staff requirements increase, technology and space needs evolve. Work continued in later years with a feasibility study exploring a mechanical and electrical systems overhaul to meet increased demand.

Sustainability

LEED Silver Certified, the Woodward Environmental Lab was the first LEED building completed by the City of Hamilton. The high-performance envelope prioritized indoor air quality and sun controls, with underfloor air distribution. The design filters 99% of all site water back into the ground, reduces potable wastewater use by 100% with a rainwater harvesting system, and reduces water use for the entire building by 65%, supported by drought resistant landscaping. All new materials were vetted for high post-consumer recycled content, and low VOC. Models estimate the design reduced annual energy costs by 30.6%. It was recognized with a Green Building Design, Thinking Outside The Box award for its innovation in wastewater technologies.

Project Facts

Markets

Civic
Science & Research
Services

Architecture
Interior Design
Master Plans & Studies
Location

Hamilton, Ontario
Size

25,800 sq. ft.
Sustainability Target

LEED Silver Certified
Awards

Green Building Design, Thinking Outside The Box

2007 Award of Merit, City of Hamilton Urban Design and Architecture Award