New library breaks ground as first net-zero facility in Waterloo Region

A rendering of the interior of the sixth branch of the Kitchener Public Library , located near Bleams and Fischer-Hallman Roads in the city’s growing Rosenberg community. The Southwest Community Library is expected to open in 2025.Libraries have long been a place of creative and professional growth, and a new branch of the Kitchener Public Library , which broke ground last October, is no exception.

The library’s location, near Bleams and Fischer-Hallman roads in the city’s growing Rosenberg community – which is expected to eventually house 25,000 residents – was identified on the KPL’s long-range plans as a future branch site more than 15 years ago. Sustainability was always part of the conversation, but because of a tight budget , carbon neutrality was initially considered unattainable. But thanks to a $5.9-million Green and Inclusive Community grant from the federal government, the project was able to move in a new direction.

Sustainability is broader than just our use of energy. It’s also about how the building respects materiality and the land around it.“This was not just design for design’s sake,” says Drew Hauser, director of design and business development at mcCallumSather. “KPL pushed us to make good choices that were sustainable. These are tricky buildings to design when aiming for net zero. You have to look at the repercussions of every little change and its impact on carbon and energy output.

The discovery of Indigenous artifacts and a First Nation village near the site reinforced the importance of working with Indigenous partners to ensure that the building and programming reflect the shared relationships and responsibility to this land. Future programming in these outdoor spaces, created in collaboration with First Nations, will be instrumental to increasing Indigenous awareness for those who visit. Permanent Indigenous art installations are also featured in this new building.

Topstories Commercial Real Estate Property Report Appwebview Advpropertyreport Library Kitchener Public Library Waterloo Region KPL Southwest Library Net Zero First Nations Rosenberg Bleams Road

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