National Arts Centre shortlisted for Construction Integration Award

August 1, 2018

The National Art Centre Architectural Rejuvenation project has been shortlisted by the Institution of Structural Engineers, UK, for the Construction Integration Award.

“The standard of entries is very high every year, so we are honoured to have been shortlisted for this project,” says Fast + Epp Founder and Partner, Paul Fast.

The National Arts Centre was rejuvenated in the lead up to the 150th anniversary of Canada’s Confederation, with the goal of creating a public building that was accessible and inviting.

The scope of the project included three new connected wings, two new lobbies, cultural programming enclosed by a custom glass curtain wall, a grand staircase, and a hexagonal tower overlooking the Rideau Canal.

Fast + Epp worked closely with Diamond Schmitt Architects to develop glulam/steel plate coffer panels that would be prefabricated off-site with integrated mechanical, electrical, and sprinkler systems. Integration significantly sped-up construction times and protected the timber from harsh weather – the roof was installed in just three weeks.

The IStructE’s Construction Integration Award is given to projects demonstrating excellence in the interaction between the structural design and the construction scheme where this represents a significant feature of the structural solution.

The Structural Awards 2018 ceremony will take place on Friday 16 November at The Brewery, London, UK. The full shortlist is available on The Structural Awards website and will also be featured in the August edition of The Structural Engineer.

In 2017, UBC’s TallWood House won the IStructE’s Construction Innovation Award, and in 2016, the Grandview Heights Aquatic Centre was granted the Institution’s highest honour, the Supreme Award.