Suncool solution for media hub
Specialist glass from Pilkington UK has been used at a new creative hub for CBC/Radio-Canada, Canada’s national public broadcaster.
With a footprint of over 6,100m2 across both glass buildings the new creative hub for media and digital production is spread across seven floors, designed with the studio and production teams in mind. The building boasts a giant atrium, open-plan TV and radio studios, green spaces, and rooftop terrace.
Glass designer and manufacturer Prelco was tasked with sourcing an innovative glass solution to meet the strictest environmental performance standards, while prioritising appearance and light.
Pilkington UK supplied 7,897m2 Pilkington Suncool 66/33 for the project, a solar control glass with low-emissivity properties, to keep internal reflection low and allow for a clear external view.
These units are connected by 465m2 of Pilkington Suncool 66/33 coated spandrel units to create the glass façade’s uniform, smooth appearance. They feature a special toughened metallic coating, hiding any internal structures to create the consistent, finished look.
Pilkington Suncool is designed to create a comfortable environment year-round. In Montreal’s warm summers, it will help prevent overheating by reflecting the sun’s heat, but when the city’s bitter winters arrive, the thermal insulation properties of the specialist glass help to keep heat in, with a Ug-value of 1.0 W/m2K.
The glass will also help reduce air conditioning and heating use, improving the building’s environmental performance. These considerations were essential in enabling the broadcasting hub to achieve LEED Silver equivalence; one of the world’s most widely recognised architectural standards in sustainable building design.
Jason Eggerton, commercial specifications manager, Pilkington UK, said: “Projects like the striking Maison de Radio-Canada, now recognisable by Montrealers for its transparent modern glass façade, creating a thriving versatile workspace rather than its sombre concrete predecessor.
“It demonstrates what a difference Pilkington Suncool solar control glass can make when combined with forward-thinking, sustainable design.”
