Originally built in 1962, a renovation of the van Steenburgh Building in 2009 supported the building renewal program at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography, which tied in with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and their consolidation of laboratory services.  The renovation provided research and administrative space to boost confidence and credibility and to enhance organizational effectiveness at BIO. Key objectives were to address asbestos abatement, remedy envelope deficiencies regarding thermal energy efficiency, implement systems upgrades, maximize usable area and provide state-of-the-art office space for a new federal tenant.  The work included complete replacement of the building envelope including roof and penthouse, new mechanical, electrical and data systems, elevator and shaft upgrades and interior tenant fit up.

DSRA was engaged to report on existing conditions; design and document renovation techniques and to handle construction administration.  Sub-consultant services included structural, mechanical, electrical, communication, building envelope, sustainability, elevator and interiors; with all sub-consultants coordinated by DSRA.  Design services included layouts and furniture selection as well as finishes and colour selection for all office, lab and common areas.

Complete replacement of the building envelope required a careful study of existing conditions and responding with a custom fitted envelope system, stick built on site.  We worked closely with the envelope contractor during construction to insure a quality installation. The long west façade of the building required energy modeling and architectural fine tuning of insulation and glazing design to achieve natural daylight requirements without overheating spaces. The renovated building achieves high energy efficiency as a result of a well-considered envelop design.