Design
Investing two years in design

Manitoba Hydro dedicated one full year to the development of the schematic design concept, organized around monthly workshops and design charrettes. Year two was committed to the development of the design and involved a schedule of bi-weekly meetings to ensure all issues—architectural, structural, energy performance, cost, constructability, LEED, etc.—were fully integrated in the final design solution. Key milestones included four design charrettes to explore and test 16 alternatives, select three options for testing, and a final concept for development.

The first IDP Session was held off site to clarify and agree upon principal goals. These were then summarized in a three-page project charter and signed by Manitoba Hydro’s executive and all IDP members. The charter established the following integral goals and generated a sense of ownership among all involved.

• Supportive workplace: healthy and effective contemporary office environment for 2,000 employees adaptable to changing technology and workplace environment for present and future needs
• World-class energy efficiency: target 60% greater energy efficiency than Canada’s Model National Energy Code for Buildings (MNECB)