Athabasca University Academic Research Centre

As the demand for distance learning grew at Athabasca University, so did the need for an updated facility to house its administrative support functions for on-campus and remote researchers. A new three-storey Academic Research Centre replaced an existing 1980s-era building to address these pressing needs.

Celebrating the region’s timber-based economy, the team used wood extensively to achieve sustainability targets and a stunning architectural aesthetic. The new building combines energy-efficient building technologies with leading-edge networking and communications technologies to facilitate online and distance learning.

One of the centre’s most unique features is its exposed timber roof. Here, Fast + Epp created solid wood panels out of vertically-staggered standard dimensional 2×4 and 2×6 lumber. These panels were supported by glulam beams and steel struts, atop a three-storey concrete structure. The resulting clerestories and high window walls along the east and west façades ensure interior spaces are bathed in natural light – important for the North’s short winter days.