The Neil Campbell Rowing Centre, nestled on the serene Henley Island in St. Catharines, Ontario, stands as a testament to modern sustainable architecture and its positive impact on the sporting community.
Completed in 2022, this state-of-the-art facility was designed by MacLennan Jaunkalns Miller Architects alongside Raimondo + Associates Architects to be the host venue for the 2024 World Rowing Championships, reflecting the city’s commitment to sports and environmental responsibility. With its innovative design, advanced energy-saving measures, and achievement of the prestigious CAGBC Zero Carbon Building – Design Certification, the center has earned its place as a world-class sustainable building.
Sustainable Architecture and Design:
The Neil Campbell Rowing Centre is not just a functional sports facility but an architectural masterpiece. The most striking feature is its elegantly cantilevered timber roof, which not only provides a stunning visual statement but also serves a practical purpose.
The roof’s mass timber composite structure, utilizing glulam and cross-laminated timber panels, showcases the ingenuity of modern timber architecture. Spanning up to 12 meters and supported by slender steel columns and CLT shear walls, the structure showcases a harmonious blend of engineering and sustainability.
Energy Efficiency and Carbon Neutrality:
The center’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond aesthetics. By achieving the CAGBC Zero Carbon Building – Design Certification, the Neil Campbell Rowing Centre has established itself as a benchmark for eco-friendly construction in the sporting world. Key to its carbon-neutral status is the integration of various energy-saving measures.
A rooftop solar energy system harnesses the power of the sun, providing a renewable and clean source of electricity. This solar installation not only powers the facility but also contributes excess energy to the grid, further promoting sustainable practices within the community.
Natural ventilation is strategically employed to maximize airflow and take advantage of the local climate conditions, significantly reducing the need for energy-intensive mechanical cooling. The use of ventilation heat recovery systems helps recapture and reuse waste heat, ensuring optimal energy efficiency.
Furthermore, the facility implements demand control ventilation, adjusting ventilation rates based on occupancy levels to enhance indoor air quality and minimize energy waste. All these measures combine to create an energy-efficient and environmentally responsible building.
Fostering Athletic Excellence:
The Neil Campbell Rowing Centre serves as the heart of the local rowing community, providing a dedicated space for training, conditioning, and regattas. For years, Henley Island has been the training ground for local rowing clubs, and with the addition of this world-class facility, athletes have access to cutting-edge amenities that facilitate their pursuit of athletic excellence.
The spacious indoor training area, adorned with natural light and surrounded by sustainable timber elements, creates a conducive atmosphere for athletes to hone their skills and push their limits. Outside, the generous overhang of the cantilevered roof creates a comfortable outdoor viewing area, allowing spectators to witness rowing events against the backdrop of Martindale Pond.
All images in this article are courtesy of the Neil Campbell Rowing Centre.
