410 West Georgia, L4 & L5 (Westbank office fitout), Vancouver

Located in the prominent Deloitte Summit, Westbank required a flexible space with optimised mechanical and plumbing systems to prioritise the comfort, health and productivity of their team.

As the base building had LEED Gold certification, energy efficiency was a key consideration for the two level 22,000 ft² fitout. The space features meeting rooms, offices and open plan workstations alongside a kitchen and breakout area.

Working with the limitations imposed by the base building, NDY utilised a four-pipe fan coil system for the HVAC system, ensuring the ductwork layout worked effectively for the space.

The design incorporated thermostats and carbon dioxide sensors across the fitout to determine occupancy and the amount of carbon dioxide produced. Once a safe threshold is passed, the sensors automatically regulate ventilation levels. As carbon dioxide levels rise, the space draws on outdoor air as a clear and effective means to maintain tenant comfort and save energy.

All systems were integrated into the building management system, allowing operators to control temperatures and humidity within limits. Plumbing design included typical requirements for kitchen and washrooms, with additional features such as low flush toilets. Auto leak detection notifies the building operator that maintenance is required to prevent major damage to the fitout. For example, if the hot water tank were to experience issues the system will shut off the water to the space and trigger both an audible alarm and notification to the building operator.

The building’s complex steel structure required heavy design coordination between teams. NDY overcame this through regular onsite coordination with the contractor and consultants and the selection of equipment that worked within structural constraints. For example, the use of slim fan coil units ensures the systems fit in place.

Efficient systems and energy-saving innovations in Westbank’s office fitout ensure a comfortable, productive environment for its users while delivering on a commitment to staff wellbeing and sustainable design.