CSV Architects “LEED” the way, transforms aging FCM headquarters building into modern, sustainable workspace

fcm csv
© Krista Jahnke Photography

Located in the historic Byward Market at 24 Clarence Street, Ottawa, an updated modern space provides the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) headquarters an agile and contemporary work environment.

With an ideal location close to Parliament Hill, the dated office limited the organization’s ability to work efficiently and collaboratively.

Now, the three-story building has undergone a complete transformation to incorporate bright and open spaces throughout.

“The aging work environment was given new life through a full-building rejuvenation,” explained Darryl Hood, Principal at CSV Architects. “Individual offices, open concept workstations, and ‘work pod’ configurations replaced a previously isolated and disconnected office space – and the result is impressive.”

True to FCM’s brand, CSV Architects designed a people-centric space in support of staff wellbeing and a collaborative office culture. The design features a bright, clean colour palette, as well as the incorporation of natural elements using wood-grain materials and plants throughout. The boardroom is now a large inviting space to promote connectivity and team-building. An eclectic staff lounge was designed with a funky kitchenette to provide staff with a place to connect, socialize, and share meals.

FCM 2
© Krista Jahnke Photography

For this project, staff consultation was imperative. Functional programming involved meeting with each department to gather information on their unique spatial needs. “The way we work is changing and the design of workplaces are evolving,” Hood said “The design was completed pre-pandemic but was already moving towards accommodating both remote and onsite workers. This mindset throughout the design process allowed an easy adaptation to a hybrid remote and on-site work environment.”

Collaborative meeting space was an ongoing theme and of particular importance to FCM. As such, CSV evolved their workstations to be more flexible, efficient, and ergonomic.

“CSV analyzed FCM’s needs to create a new set of office standards,” said Paolo Marinelli, Associate at CSV Architects. “FCM were committed to sustainable and environmentally friendly design. Our goal was to help them achieve a LEED certification through the Canada Green Building Council.”

Sustainable features were incorporated throughout the design. The most important first decision made towards a sustainable project was the decision to rejuvenate their existing building rather than build new. Following this, other sustainable features include the selection of non-toxic, low or no-VOC products, energy efficiency in the form of carbon offsets, water efficient fixtures, biophilic elements throughout the design, and bird-friendly glazing on windows.

fcm 3
© krista jahnke photography

To create a healthy interior environment for staff, workstations are located in close proximity to the exterior windows to provide good views and daylighting.

All of these features combine to create an environmentally friendly design in support of staff health and wellbeing. As a result, CSV was proud to announce their design of FCM’s office building resulted in a LEED CI Gold certification.

To engaging CSV in a future sustainable design project they can be reached at admin@csv.ca.

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