‘The Largest Passive House in Canada’ Completed by Handel Architects | University of Toronto

‘The Largest Passive House in Canada’ Completed by Handel Architects | University of Toronto

Harmony Commons, a dormitory at the University of Toronto Scarborough by Handel Architects, has been recognized as the largest Passive House building in Canada. It accommodates 746 first-year students and includes a dining hall and offices. Read more on SURFACES REPORTER (SR):

Located in the campus's northern area, the U-shaped building features three volumes around a central courtyard raised above the glass-walled dining hall.

Design Inspired by a Campus Quad

Its design and orientation were inspired by a traditional low-rise campus quad, aiming to connect students with nature. "By leveraging the natural surroundings, the building has been positioned and shaped to ensure that as many occupied spaces as possible have a connection to the outdoors," said New York-based Handel Architects.

Historic Grove as a Focal Point

A preserved historic grove of trees to the north serves as a key focal point for many units, common rooms, and the ground-level dining hall. Completed in 2023, the building has been designated a Passive House by the Passivhaus Institut in Darmstadt, Germany, meeting specific energy efficiency standards. 

Innovative Strategies for Certification

The building was recently certified as the largest Passive House in Canada and the world's largest dormitory to receive this recognition. To achieve this, the team implemented strategies such as a high-performance envelope, energy-efficient systems, and heat recovery from ventilation exhaust and wastewater.

The fully electric building also features windows designed to maximize natural light while minimizing heat loss.

Energy Efficiency

According to Handel Architects, Harmony Commons uses nearly 70% less energy during peak heating conditions compared to a dormitory built on campus in 2003. An eight-month study revealed that the building also consumes energy more consistently, a crucial factor in lowering overall costs and reducing strain on the electricity grid.

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