HILLS OF HEADWATERS VISITOR CENTRE (on going)

Orangeville, Ontario 

For this project it is vital to seek and obtain all building materials within a 500 kilometer radius of the site in order to ensure the least amount of trucking emissions caused by transporting the materials.

The materials proposed are high on the sustainability radar. Most of them aremanufactured products of which some do not enjoy a great market share due to the smaller manufactured volumes. An example is ICF (insulated concrete formwork) made
from recycled wood chips.

A “green roof” is integrated into the design in order to reduce energy needs.  This building feature will prove to be appreciated by community members, as evidenced by the number of paid for workshops offered on a regular basis.

There is also an emphasis on materials which come directly from the wood lot or farm, such as cordwood and straw bales. Similar to the way various nearby Colleges have seen fit, these ‘soft’ constructions are an opportunity for skill development. It forms a learning opportunity to members of the community who seek proficiency in alternative construction skills.

With the construction of Headwaters done by community members alongside skilled professionals, a wonderful learning experience and communal dynamic results from the building process. The community’s hands on experience and insight gain sets the tone for the future; that Headwaters involvement is about smart insight, skills and business opportunities advancing the region’s natural heritage.

all projects