is the original chimneys. We used the base of these to in- stall skylights so they gain added function but the shape and essence of what they were originally remains.” WZMH principal Harrison Chan explains some of the other elements of the new design, which helped the building achieve its LEED Platinum certification. “The initial design strategy from both an aesthetic and sustainability approach was to maintain the original inte- rior steel frame structure and exterior concrete shell as much as possible,” he said. “In order to maximize day- light into the building the exterior concrete walls were cut strategically to create windows on all elevations. In addi- tion, we implemented simple but effective measures such as reflective white roofing, daylight sensors, raised flooring in the office for flexibility of function and layout, polished concrete floors, a minimal but sustainable ma- terial palette (steel, glass, and wood), and used some unique systems to achieve high energy efficiency.” Among these is a sea water cooling system, drawing The Canadian Design and Construction Report — Spring 2013 – 37 ATLANTIC CANADA The 16,400 sq. m. corporate office is home to more than 600 staff. Originally constructed of steel and concrete and re- sembling something like a bunker, the building had cre- ated a barrier between the city and the waterfront. Part of the idea for a civic contribution included opening up the space to renew the connection. “We added a 14 metre, six-storey atrium which acts as the heart of the building, bringing light and airiness to the space, provides a gath- ering place for staff, and also provides a gateway be- tween the city and the water,” explains Blanchaer. The building has been designed to capture as much natural light as possible. A galleria six metres wide runs the length of the building, varying in height from two to five storeys, and skylights bring in even more light. “We were able to keep several key elements of the original building to maintain a memory of what had been there,” Blanchaer said. “One of these is the wonderful steel structure that is visible in the atrium and the other