NS General Employees Union Headquarters

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Bird’s favourable reputation and visionary approach lent itself to the securement of this project. The project was procured through an in-house design-build approach, where Bird’s internal design team worked closely with the client to develop a functional space program, and prepare conceptual and design development drawings using Autodesk® Revit® software. During the extensive design process, 3D models were created to allow the client to visualize the completed project. During construction,the construction team and consultants were able to maintain the integrity of the design by using the approved 3D renderings as a reference. Unique to this project, Bird used fire modelling techniques to reduce costs for traditional fire protection systems, which decreased the use of harmful fireproofing products. This was achieved through the use of computer fire model simulations and timed exit studies for occupancy loads. By refining the design, the studies were conclusive that the building exceeded all requirements for fire protection and the money saved was reallocated to sustainable design strategies including the highly insulated building envelope featuring insulated tilt-up concrete sandwich panels and heat recovery ventilation. The three-storey office and conference centre can accommodate meetings of up to 300 people. Through value engineering, Bird was able to expand the building by 1,800 square metres while still adhering to the client’s budget. The exterior features glazing with the union’s prominent colours of blue and gold. The building and convention centre are bridged by an atrium-style, open-window winter garden.

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