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82 | J U N E 2 0 2 5 Arthur J.E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre human-scaled presence. "Terracotta has an earthy quality – it's something you can touch, something that absorbs the sun's warmth. It makes the build- ing feel welcoming," says Morettin. In contrast, the tower's aluminum façade reflects the balance of preci- sion and science. The tower connects back to the city and the mountains, with research programs and inpatient units housed within. "We wanted it to feel sharp and dynamic, changing with the light throughout the day," adds Morettin. Daylight was indeed a guiding principle in the design. "The floor- plates are narrower than typical hospital settings, allowing ample natural light to penetrate deep into the building," Morettin explains. Dynamic glass windows automati- cally adjust their tint based on outdoor conditions, enhancing comfort and optimizing energy efficiency. Charlotte Kessler, a patient and family advisory council advisor, underscores the importance of these design choices, saying, "Our input led directly to meaningful changes, like incorporating natural light- ing, designing accessible spaces, and ensuring intuitive wayfinding. These elements significantly enhance the patient experience, providing a sense of calm and ease." Every inpatient room offers an unre- stricted view of either the mountains or the downtown core – a connection to place that is incredibly powerful. "Inside, the Connector – a fully enclosed, 400-metre pathway with separate public and staff/patient corridors – seamlessly links the can- cer centre to other key medical facilities, ensuring convenient, com- fortable, and safe movement for patients, families, and health-care staff year-round," explains Craig Schultz of AHS Capital Management. Sustainability was central to the design vision. "Achieving LEED Gold certification underscores our commit- ment to environmental responsibility. Through water-efficient fixtures, innovative landscaping, and highly efficient HVAC and lighting sys- tems, the centre significantly reduces resource consumption and opera- tional costs," says Schultz. PCL further details these sustain- ability measures, highlighting the use of slow-drip watering systems and drought- resistant plants that require minimal irrigation. Bathrooms are equipped with ultra-low flow toilets, sinks, and showers, while the centre's ventilation system utilizes 100 percent outside air, enhancing indoor air quality without compromising energy efficiency. More than just a medical facility, the Arthur J.E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre sets a new benchmark for health-care design. "Ultimately, our goal is to improve patient out- comes and offer hope to families across Alberta," says Hatcher. "This facility ensures patients feel supported every step of their cancer journey." The vision includes both research and innovation that is woven into the fabric of patient care. Dr. Don Morris, medical director of the centre, high- lights its impact on cancer research and treatment. "The new centre offers extensive research space – larger than the entire footprint of the existing Tom Baker Cancer Centre – allowing us to advance treatment capabilities and benefit patients across Alberta today and well into the future," says Morris. "By combining patient-cen- tred care, cutting-edge technology, and sustainable design, we've cre- ated a facility that sets new standards for cancer care, both nationally and internationally." Bringing this ambitious vision to life was a true collaboration, unit- ing medical teams, architects, and construction partners. Adrian Lao, architect at Dialog, reflects on that shared dedication: "In the design, you can hear the voices of patient and fam- ily advisors, clinicians, and everyone involved, from the owner to the con- struction team. Their belief in the vision and aspiration of this facility made it a reality." A P H OTO G R A P H Y BY A D R I A N OZI M EK /CO U RT E S Y D I A LO G BUILDING across Canada since 2005 amegroup.ca • Mechanical Design • Fire Suppression Design • Building Performance Services • Commissioning Services • Building Energy Services MAKING TOMORROW BETTER THAN TODAY We bring a unique, purposeful approach to design thinking through thoughtful placemaking that inspires human connection, community, vibrancy, and social well-being. DISCOVER METAFOR TODAY! www.metafor.studio Moxy Hotel Canalta Hotels | Banff, AB September 2025 ANNUAL INDUSTRY FEATURE: Metal Roofing/Cladding Book your ad space now: | Dan Chapman 604.473.0316