PROJECTS

Building name:

Art Gallery of Alberta

Building location:

Edmonton, Alberta

Vertical:

Commercial

Building Completed:

2012

Site size:

85,000 ft 2

Description:

The Art Gallery of Alberta (AGA) was founded in 1924 and had many homes as it grew over the years. The current location was originally constructed in 1968 and underwent and exciting redesign in 2012. The AGA has a collection of over 6,000 objects and is known as the “oldest cultural institution in Alberta”. The building has been integrated with the City of Edmonton’s Light Rail Transit system.

Job Description:

Maintaining the correct temperature and relative humidity (RH) conditions in an art gallery such as the AGA is critical, as the fluctuation can accelerate the decay of objects (such as art pieces) that are sensitive to these changes. ESC made use of the existing equipment by applying the right controls strategy and using the AGA’s cooling systems not only for temperature control but also as an effective dehumidification system. The BMS system was customized to anticipate the hot and humid outside air conditions automatically prevent high humidity and temperature, as opposed to reacting to such conditions. A field technician also does a four hour visit to the AGA every two weeks to ensure environmental protection of the art exhibits.

Results:

The ability to maintain precise temperature and humidity control inside the AGA year-round means that they can borrow high-profile art from various lenders who are confident it will be well cared for. The preventative BMS system has also resulted in energy savings.