The only credit union on the 2015 LEED Platinum certification list, Vancity’s Mount Tolmie Community Branch, provides a high-performance green interior that is a healthy, productive place to work with a reduced environmental footprint. This project was part of a steady increase in LEED certifications seen in 2015, as reported recently by the Canadian Green Building Council.
RATIO acted as the prime consultant and was responsible for the planning and design of the of the 5000 square foot Mount Tolmie Community Branch which resulted in LEED Platinum Commercial Interior certification.
Vancity’s Mount Tolmie Branch Manager, Chris Tilden, shared this: “The first thing most people notice when coming into the Mount Tolmie community branch for the first time is how bright it is inside. While we still required enclosed offices for private discussions, the open space plan with floor to ceiling glass walls and doors allows for an abundant amount of natural light. This means we’ve been able to decrease our use of indoor lighting. Branch staff has specifically commented on the air quality. Our new branch has above standard ventilation and used low-emitting building materials and furnishings.”
Christopher Pollard, RATIO principal: “The Mount Tolmie branch design includes a community room, engagement centre, commissioned public art in the member’s space, eight banking offices along with life insurance and teller services. The new branch is filled with natural light, entering the building through large windows on all exposures. RATIO worked to ensure that all member and staff areas had access to natural light and in most cases, direct views to the outside. We worked with our consultants to ensure the highest possible energy performance and savings through a centrally controlled lighting and HVAC system with daylight and occupancy sensors in offices and meeting spaces. Additionally, each branch area – including individual offices – can be controlled independently, ensuring that energy is used only as required.”
RATIO has deep expertise in working with credit unions. Our team has provided architectural, interior design and planning services to credit unions for over 50 years. Recent and ongoing projects include: integrated consulting on all Vancity branches, Island Savings Branch of the Future, award winning design on the downtown branch of Salmon Arm Savings & Credit Union, refresh of Greater Vancouver Community Credit Union’s brand and branch template, and the forward-thinking branch concept for First West Credit Union through their Envision Financial brand.
For more information about RATIO’s work contact Christopher Pollard.
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