McMaster is seeking to revitalize the academic, research and community program associated with the Department of Biology to renovate Life Science Building (LSB) and replace the existing research and teaching greenhouse (located in the north side of McMaster campus) with a new greenhouse adjacent to, and interconnected to, the LSB. The revitalization initiative will include the renovation of part of LSB in a manner that successfully integrates a dynamic new Greenhouse and ensures that the funds allocated are strategically invested to address multiple University objectives.
The Life Science Building, whose main tenant is the Department of Biology, has not undergone any additions, nor major renovations since constructed in 1970. The scope of this project will include renovate level 1 and underground level, refresh the labs and research areas, general infrastructure upgrades (Mechanical, Electrical and building services) and provide Ancillary spaces, Barrier free washroom(s), etc. and would have a new atrium space accessible to the exterior by way of a prominent entrance.
The new multi-zone, research Greenhouse footprint will measure approximately 10,000 sqft and will include:
- glass enclosure and cladding system,
- Atypical sawtooth roof angle for greenhouse resulting in special solutions at the peak and the gutter,
- Variety of growing cells with environmental controls that include natural ventilation, heating with radiant/convection heat, cooling with fan coils, and operable screens.
- Controlled by BAS system for optimum environment.
The project includes a closed loop geothermal system as part of the Greenhouse heating and cooling, with the intent to consider it as a part of its heating/cooling system to include:
- closed loop ground heat exchanger system.
- integrated with existing district energy system.
- implemented in a research setting.
The project will be aiming to achieve a minimum LEED Silver certification.
It is anticipated that construction will begin in Fall/Winter 2021 and be complete by Summer 2023.
