McMaster Opens 'Living Laboratory Of Sustainability'

A new engineering building at McMaster University will function as both a learning and research facility and a “living laboratory of sustainability”.

Designed by Diamond Schmitt Architects, the Gerald Hatch Centre For Engineering Experiential Learning incorporates the building's heating and cooling system with research technologies funded by the Canadian Foundation For Innovation. These include solar photovoltaic and solar thermal panels, wind turbines, a combined heat and power generator, a building-diagnostic system, a geothermal field, R25 walls, R40 roofs and triple glazing.

“We are pleased to celebrate this very significant landmark for our students’ benefit,” McMaster Dean of Engineering Ishwar Puri said in a news release.

“The vision for the Hatch Centre unites a sustainable building with augmented programming. Both have been designed to enhance the experiential learning of our students and to inspire them to become engaged citizen scholars who will transform the world.”

The 27K SF building includes a ground-floor build space and machine shop for projects, including solar car development and a Formula One race team project. The second floor houses design labs and collaborative meeting space while the third floor has student support services.

“Central to the project’s design is the concept that the operation and energy use needs of the building will be a testing ground for an array of green energy-producing research equipment,” Diamond Schmitt Architects principal Michael Szabo said. 

“The building is enabled to pursue zero-net energy and to demonstrate its potential as a stand-alone resilient facility.”