Length: 1 CEU
Topic: Sustainability / Climate
Delivery Mode: Online On-Demand
What's Included: Video, Quiz, & Certificate
Registration Fee: Members $50 | Intern $35 | Student $25 | Non-Member $75
This webinar is part of the RAIC 2025 Conference on Architecture!
This session delves into the design and implementation of Toronto Public Library’s Centennial branch and Kitchener Public Library’s Community branch as exemplary models of net-zero, carbon-neutral design. Both projects not only set new benchmarks for public buildings in Canada but also embody the principles of climate resilience and adaptability. These libraries are crafted to serve as enduring community hubs that remain accessible and functional even as climate conditions evolve. Attendees will gain insights into how these libraries utilize advanced building envelope design, mechanical systems, and renewable energy integration to achieve their ambitious sustainability goals while ensuring they are robust against future climate impacts. Through detailed case studies, we will explore strategies for achieving net-zero energy targets, adapting to climate change, and designing spaces that are adaptable, resilient, and continuously beneficial to the community. This session will provide actionable knowledge on achieving superior thermal performance, integrating passive and active design strategies, and engaging with community and Indigenous stakeholders in sustainable building practices.
Describe the key design strategies employed to achieve net-zero energy in the Centennial branch and Community branch, including the integration of building envelope innovations and renewable energy systems.
Analyze the impact of advanced building envelopes on thermal performance and energy efficiency in public library settings.
Apply lessons learned from these projects to develop resilient and adaptive building designs that respond to climate change and sustainability requirements.
Evaluate the effectiveness of community and stakeholder engagement strategies, including Indigenous consultations, in enhancing the cultural and environmental impact of public buildings.
Subject Matter Experts:
Willems Ransom
B.F.A., M. ARCH., NCARB, AIA
Principal, Architect, mcCallumSather
Willems Ransom, Principal, is an award-winning designer and leader within mcCallumSather. Willems is known for crafting unique spaces, each meticulously tailored to their unique context. Willems’ dedication to sustainability is a thread woven through every facet of his work, contributing to the creation of spaces that harmonize with their surroundings while leaving a positive impact on the environment. Willems works with clients in healthcare, education, civic and workspace sectors. In addition to a wide range of projects at various stages of construction, Willems has been involved in research projects designed to better understand the data driving design decisions, particularly around timeline, materiality and construction techniques. Willems is licensed through the American Architecture Institute, part of the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering and former board member with the Western New York State Sustainable Business Round Table.
This webinar is in English. Closed captions have been provided in both English and French.
Pricing
Member: $50 / Non-Member: $75
Intern Member: $35 / Intern Non-Member: $75
Student: $25 (must be an RAIC student associate member)