Nov. 16, 2016

Background: Canadian Natural Resources Limited Engineering Complex facts

Project preserves aspects of our 50-year history while enhancing learning and research spaces
The building, which opened to students in September 2016, features new undergraduate design labs, two floors of research labs and an expanded student lounge. The expansion also includes two 240-seat theatres, including one that can be reconfigured to host special events. Photos by Riley Brandt, University of Calgary
The building, which opened to students in September 2016, features new undergraduate design labs, tw
  • This project involves approximately 18,300 square metres of new space and 11,100 square metres of renovations to the existing engineering complex.
  • The new building opened to students in the fall of 2016 with expanded student study spaces.
  • The renovation and expansion cost $174 million.
  • The facility provides capacity for 400 additional engineering students.
  • The project features enhanced learning spaces including two new 240-seat theatres — one of which can be reconfigured to fit the learning needs of students.
  • New undergraduate design labs will foster practical skills to help students develop new inventions, conceive startup companies or create inspiring technologies.
Schulich Racing team members show off their vehicle for guests as part of a student showcase at the official opening of the new Canadian Natural Resources Limited Engineering Complex.

Schulich Racing team members show off their vehicle for guests as part of a student showcase.

Riley Brandt, University of Calgary

  • Two new floors of research labs will support leading-edge research into areas such as clean energy technology and renewable energy resources.
  • An expanded student lounge provides increased study space for engineering students.
  • A social staircase will act as a central hub for the engineering school, for community outreach and to provide additional study space.
  • Projected energy savings from the engineering complex are enough to power 100 Calgary homes for a year.
  • Recycled 4044.63 metric tonnes of waste from landfill, 89.92 per cent of all building materials.
  • This project provided 920,000 hours of employment for more than 400 individuals.
  • This building also preserves aspects of our 50-year history by incorporating features such as the 1960s staircase or using some former exterior walls as interior walls in the complex.
A top priority for the project was achieving Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification by using the latest energy-saving technologies.

A priority for the project was Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification.

Riley Brandt, University of Calgary