Passive House & Mechanical Systems
Award Magazine, August 2017, by Natalie Bruckner-Menchelli It has been well documented that mechanical systems providing indoor environmental control and domestic hot water functions generally represent the largest consumer of energy in Canadian high-rise multi-unit residential buildings. However, as government, owners and end users shine a spotlight on the sector, leaders in the field have […]
The Science Behind Building in Hot & Cold Climates
By: Hillary Davidson, P.Eng. Taking into consideration a respective region’s environment and climate is critical to the long-term performance of a building. Most of us would never wear a snowsuit in Hawaii or shorts and a t-shirt in the middle of winter in Calgary. Like dressing for the weather, buildings must be designed to properly […]
Inspection & Drone Technology
Drone technology has opened up a new dimension for consulting engineering, specifically for those specializing in building and roof inspections. The technology that is just starting to appear on consulting engineering’s horizon allows for streamlining of buildings and exterior inspections and is also helping to alleviate multiple sources of risk. In addition, the use of […]
Evolving Education Facilities
By: Chad Musselwhite, P.Eng., LEED® AP, AP BD+C Education facilities have seen many changes over the last century. Changes to our society and various cultures, advances in communication and technology as well as the introduction of shared or open concept learning spaces that meet the needs of multiple stakeholders, have all contributed to the changing […]
The New Era of Sustainable Design Strategies
Award Magazine, June 2017, by Natalie Bruckner-Menchelli Net zero has become a bit of a buzz word in the sustainable buildings market. However, experts in the sector will tell you that while net zero energy goals certainly have their place, there is a lot more going on behind the scenes when it comes to sustainable […]
Parkade Restoration 101
Parkades are an important aspect of many residential condominium buildings and can act as the foundation for these types of structures. Therefore, maintaining parkade areas is critical to ensure the safety and comfort of residents. Underground Heated Parkades Many condominiums have underground heated parkades with internal multi-level suspended concrete parking areas. Restoration of these parkades […]
Airports – The New Era of Air Travel
Airports have long been seen as an entryway that a majority of travelers pass through when visiting foreign destinations either for work or play. Although not seen as major geographical attractions, airport authorities have recognized that there is a great need for their facilities to be known for more than just a centre for air […]
Technological Advancements & Energy Standards Are Reshaping Electrical & Communications Systems
Award Magazine, April 2017, by Stacey McLachlan Though it may not be as dramatic or glamorous as a stunning staircase or window wall, the electrical system is what truly makes or breaks an architectural project. A well-designed and up-to-date system that manages the distribution of power and lighting conserves energy, and provides secure information networks […]
Williams Engineering Canada Profiled In Award Magazine
To be a visionary in business requires a clear understanding of day-to-day operations combined with clarity for future goals, the necessary steps that will get you there and a willingness to embrace challenges and step outside the box. These are qualities that Naseem Bashir, president and CEO of Williams Engineering Canada (WEC) and chairman of […]
Biomass – Renewable Energy in the Northwest Territories
Biomass – Renewable Energy in the Northwest Territories Whenever the average Canadian thinks of renewable energy, their mind tends to immediately turn to solar and wind power, but a recent discussion paper by Alternatives North shed some light on how incomplete the renewable energy picture would be without considering the less glamorous and shiny of […]
Energy Management – Technology, Strategies & Incentives
Award Magazine, February 2017, by Natalie Bruckner-Menchelli When it comes to energy savings, a great deal of focus has been placed on technologies that will help us go above and beyond existing standards. However, unless the owner or operator of a building has an in-depth understanding of how those technologies work, the people who would […]
Retails Shift towards LED Lighting, Connectivity & Flexible Design
Retail spaces, shopping centres and malls have taken drastic electrical design shifts in recent years to match technological advancements and changing retail experiences. What this means for most retailers, developers, and electrical engineers is a focused emphasis on LED lighting, connectivity and flexible design solutions. These changing elements in retail spaces are not only having […]