Designed for Beauty. Built with Purpose.
Inspired by the unyielding Alberta wind and shaped by the endless prairie landscape, the Edmonton International Airport’s (EIA) Combined Office and Control Tower (COT) is a striking example of architecture blending aesthetic ambition with functional precision. A defining landmark for the province, this project exemplifies EllisDon’s commitment to creating sustainable, purpose-driven infrastructure. The COT enhances community connection while meeting the complex demands of an operational airport.
Project Overview
The first Canadian LEED certified airport
As part of EIA’s 2012 Capital Expansion Program, the COT was built to address growing passenger volumes, operational needs, and the desire to offer an elevated traveler experience.
Highlights of the project included:
- A new 48-meter control tower to replace the aging 40-year-old structure, improving sight lines and operational capacity with a 50% larger cab.
- 13 new retail outlets and hospitality expansions to enhance traveler convenience.
- 500 m² of dedicated office space for law enforcement, including exhibit areas for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
- Significant renovations to the central hall and pre-board screening area.
With an iconic design by DIALOG and executed by EllisDon through a Construction Management contract, this 130,240 sq. ft. facility achieved LEED Gold certification for its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Design
A Reflection of Edmonton’s Landscape
The architectural design captures the essence of Alberta’s natural elements. The sloping, wave-like exterior of the eight-level tower mirrors the patterns created by wind on snowdrifts, offering a dynamic and memorable silhouette.
Every zinc panel was custom-molded and positioned to optimize thermal performance:
- South and west-facing panels provide shade from intense summer sun.
- North-facing panels invite winter sunlight to reduce heating demands.
This strategic use of materials, combined with a facade that minimizes heat loss, highlights a design philosophy where form enhances function, achieving both energy efficiency and visual harmony with the surrounding prairie.
Built with Purpose
Addressing Challenges with Innovation
Constructing a landmark facility within a live airport environment posed unique challenges EllisDon addressed with innovative solutions:
- Prefabrication for Efficiency: Modular panels were prefabricated off-site to accelerate installation and reduce disruptions, ensuring smooth daily airport operations.
- Noise Mitigation: During the installation of micro-piles inside operational facilities, sound insulation and restricted working hours minimized noise impact.
- Custom Scaffolding: The complex parabolic facade required a tailored scaffolding system, ensuring worker safety and precise execution.
Additionally, EllisDon identified opportunities for cost savings without compromising quality. For instance, replacing traditional drywall hoarding with “freezer panels” saved $1.9 million, allowing funds to be reinvested into temporary retail spaces.
A Foundation for Success
EllisDon’s culture of collaboration played a pivotal role in the project’s success. The company worked closely with DIALOG to refine the design and leveraged BIM technology to identify and resolve design clashes early. Partnering with local firms, such as Gery Technologies and Radius Track, further streamlined the delivery of complex structural components like the undulating steel ribbons and zinc panel cladding.
The integration of the NAV Canada steel cab—a key feature of the control tower—required intricate coordination between manufacturers and contractors, exemplifying EllisDon’s ability to foster productive partnerships across a global supply chain.
Sustainability at the Forefront
Achieving LEED Gold certification
In 2015, the COT embodies EllisDon’s dedication to sustainable building practices. Key features include:
- White roofing to mitigate the heat island effect.
- Optimized energy performance through thermal-efficient materials and facade design.
- Central energy plant connection to enhance heating and cooling efficiency.
Balancing Beauty and Purpose in Alberta’s Skyline
The Edmonton International Airport Office and Control Tower stands as a testament to EllisDon’s ability to balance beauty and purpose in construction. From its iconic design reflecting Edmonton’s natural landscape to the sustainable practices that earned it LEED Gold certification, the project highlights EllisDon’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and community-focused development.
This transformative addition to the Edmonton skyline not only serves as a functional hub for airport operations but also leaves a lasting impression on travelers and residents alike—a beacon of architectural excellence rooted in the heart of Alberta.
