Passive House–certified buildings use anywhere from 40 to 90 percent less energy than conventionally built structures. To achieve Phius certification, the center was put together like a puzzle with fully recyclable cladding crafted from post-industrial polymers, a metal seamed roof, large, high-performance windows, solar power, and three-foot thick walls. The center’s air-tight envelope, which even impressed the team’s engineers with its performance upon testing, provides a comfortable interior and minimizes heat loss. Inside, wood slats with acoustical paneling warm up the sanctuary, which includes an awe-inspiring 45-foot ceiling, theater lighting, and baseboard heaters.
While the center’s design may seem simple, achieving such a high level of precision and performance was a challenge given the site’s remote location. Despite the setbacks, the Doig River Cultural Centre has accomplished what it set out to do, provide a unifying communal space for its people and showcase that even in the harsh climate of the Far North, passive house buildings can provide a comfortable refuge.
The building is Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) certified, which will result in 90% less energy usage over a conventional building. It is also one of the most northern PHIUS certified building in North America.
