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SPOTLIGHT SPOTLIGHT

the largest natural hill in Calgary juxtaposed with a natural wetland dynamic energy to each space. Extensive glazing allows natural
in the opposite corner. The building fuses these elements into one light to illuminate the facility and visually connects users with the
natural outdoor recreation experience. Inside, the heat and power outdoors.
co-generation system, which produces electrical and thermal energy With community and connectivity at the heart of the architects’
from natural gas, significantly reduces waste energy and greenhouse mission, the design of the Shane Homes YMCA has quickly become
gas emissions. a model for an intelligent, inclusive response for a facility that now
The use of Corian® indoors was guided by the same principle. “As serves a large swath of Calgary’s residents. According to Day, the
well as being stylish and functional, Corian® is nontoxic and non- project’s success is evident not only in the architectural awards it has
allergenic and contributes to our goal of sustainability,” explains Day, earned but in the many people who visit the site simply to admire
who notes how Corian® Solid Surface, featured here at Shane Homes its aesthetics. “We conduct separate tours of the building to satisfy
YMCA in the Glacier White color, is ideally suited to a recreational the curiosity from both YMCA Calgary members and non-YMCA
facility because of its functionality and design properties. “The Calgary members,” adds Day. “This in itself is unique.”
countertops in Corian® Solid Surface feature a nearly seamless joint
that is stylish and the material performs well against stains, heat and
sunlight. Given the high number of people we have going through Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge - ymcacalgary.org
Project: GEC Architecture
the facility at any one time, we particularly need durable and stain Photos: dsTroyer / David S. Troyer
resistant surfaces which are easy to keep clean.” Fabrication of Corian® by Executive Millwork
Another key design feature is how the GEC team of architects looked
to integrate, rather than separate, the complex’s activity areas. From
the central open space of the facility users can see the pool area, BELOW: The Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge occupies a site next to a
wetland on the outskirts of Calgary.
gymnasium, fitness center, skating rink and hockey arena. Overhead
OPPOSITE: The architects relied on Corian® Solid Surface as the solution for
an elevated running track encircles the public concourse, adding high-traffic areas, such as changing rooms, susceptible to constant wear and tear.

Corian® Design / ISSUE TWO 45