Carleton University Herzberg Laboratories Building Addition

Carleton University needed additional space for its growing student population. More than that, the university wanted the expansion of its Herzberg Laboratories Building to project a strong architectural image and to set a new campus standard for sustainable design.

HOK’s design for a three-story addition accomplishes all three goals. Constructed while the lower floors were still in use, the addition allowed the university to increase enrollment in its science program with minimal disruption to ongoing education. The new wing includes interactive classrooms, faculty offices and student support spaces. Its social and study spaces face the picturesque Rideau River and have become a popular hub for student activity.

Located along a main campus thoroughfare, the building creates a memorable architectural image. Exterior sun shading louvers, boldly colored cladding and large north-south window sections enliven the landscape.

Inside, the building orientation and window-to-wall ratio optimize daylight. Designed to use 80 percent less energy than a typical office building, the addition earned a 4 Green Globes rating from the Green Building Initiative.