Award

D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 4 | 41 Walls & Ceilings P H OTO G R A P H Y BY SA S I N T ER N AT I O N A L /CO U RT E S Y S O U N D S O LU T I O N S P H OTO G R A P H Y CO U RT E S Y CGC I N C . This year, walls and ceilings experts deliver innovations that master acoustics and elevate design by LAURIE JONES D esigners and suppliers of unique wall and ceiling systems have all brought their A-game to options for 2024/2025 with new technol- ogy and imagery that will last well into the future. CGC Inc.'s renovation of Calgary's BMO Centre – the largest convention centre in Western Canada – introduces a remarkable expan- sion, adding a cutting-edge 565,000 square feet to its one-storey, above-ground facility. This modern 1,350,000-square-foot structure, including a conference centre and stadium, now positions Calgary as a major player in the global convention scene. The addition to this space significantly boosts the conference centre's capacity to host large-scale conventions and events. "The BMO Centre has already seen an influx of scheduled events; over 500 have been scheduled, with the first being the Global Energy Show in June 2025," says Céline Downer, integrated marketing specialist at CGC. "To help bring this project to life, CGC incorporated the USG Ensemble Acoustical Drywall Ceiling." Executed by the Calgary-based team, Populous (USA), Stantec, and S2 Architecture, the scale of this project, along with the use of advanced materi- als, demonstrates the innovative spirit behind the renovation. "The USG Ensemble Acoustical Drywall Ceiling offers a unique combination of acoustic performance, aesthetic appeal, and design flexibil- ity," says Downer. "This ceiling system provides a seamless, monolithic look, essential for a modern, state-of-the-art facility that prioritizes visual appeal and contemporary design." She explains one of the standout features is its high acoustic performance, offering an NRC of up to 0.80 and a CAC of up to 45. "This makes it a per- fect choice for large, multi-purpose spaces such as conference halls and stadiums, where controlling noise levels is crucial for ensuring clear communica- tion and a comfortable environment for attendees." The City of Calgary has posted glowing reviews on LinkedIn, celebrating the completion of this signifi- cant project, which was finished just in time for its first event in June. Sound Solutions represents and distributes an extensive line of beautiful, functional, and cost- effective products for architects and designers to select from to finish the walls and ceilings of any type of project. One of these products was used in a unique SAS International's project for the headquar- ters of a confidential financial firm in New York City that featured 'ribbons' spanning across the soffit of the trading floors. Situated on the prestigious corner of Central Park, the architect's inspiration was to rep- licate the movement of trees and nature within the large floors, with each differing viewing angle pro- viding an alternate experience, replicating the four seasons of nature itself. A-Frame Bringing Their BMO Centre, Calgary, AB Confidential financial firm, New York City, NY

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