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Steven Holl to Design Convertible Energy Center

The energy center will function as one centralized energy source for all of the waterfront properties.

Mairi Beautyman -- Interior Design, 3/13/2008 12:00:00 AM

Steven Holl Architects (SHA) will design an innovative, adaptable energy center for the first new waterfront neighborhoods in Toronto. The 37,700-square-foot District Energy Centre in the West Don Lands will initially supply cooling and heating via natural gas to the 2,000-acre publicly-owned Waterfront Toronto, a $1 billion waterfront revitalization initiative.

SHA designed a centralized system that can be easily converted, when more efficient and sustainable energy is approved for the city. Underground pipes will connect to each development parcel composing Waterfront Toronto, so that one district energy system can be used for all of the properties. All new buildings must use the same system. The energy center will also showcase several sustainable features, including a green roof.

"We hope to make the District Energy Centre a cultural and global symbol of sustainable development through an architecture that enacts the authentic connection of nature, society and humanity," says principal Steven Holl. "The building will be inspiring in its design and excellent in its technical functioning."

Groundbreaking on the facility is expected to begin by the end of 2008 and full operation is scheduled for the beginning of 2010.