ZAS Architects and Bucholz McEvoy Architects have been selected in a joint venture to design the Toronto and Region Conservation (TRCA)’s new Administration Building. The facility will provide 100,000 square feet of adaptive office space and demonstrate TRCA’s commitment to green infrastructure by targeting LEEDv4 Platinum, WELL Silver and is a CaGBC Zero Carbon Building Standard pilot project.

Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC)’s Zero Carbon Building Standard is a new initiative designed to make carbon emissions the key indicator for building performance. As part of the 16-project pilot program, TRCA’s Administration Building will help further the development of the standard, along with accompanying resources and education.

“We’re extremely excited to work in collaboration with the TRCA and Bucholz McEvoy Architects to create one of the most ambitious sustainable green buildings in Canada,” said Marek Zawadzki, principal at ZAS Architects. “The facility will be one of the first targeting LEEDv4 Platinum, WELL Silver and net zero carbon as part of the CaGBC Zero Carbon Building Standard pilot project. The new TRCA Administration Office will set a leading example of sustainability.”

TRCA’s new headquarters will help consolidate many operations, reducing the number of its administrative offices from eight to three. The building will be located on land already owned by TRCA at the heart of its area of jurisdiction, with convenient highway and transit access. It will also feature a three-level underground parking garage spanning over 90,000 square feet.

The intention of the building’s design is to demonstrate municipal, provincial and federal strategies, use innovative healthy materials and adopt passive house design principles. Plans for the facility also include the use of renewable energy, innovative wastewater management and integration with the ravine landscape.