Facts about the C.K. Choi Building for the Institute of Asian Research General features One of Canada's most environmentally sound building projects. Designed by Matsuzaki Wright Architects of Vancouver. The building was constructed using materials that are recyclable or recycled, including bricks from demolished buildings and wooden beams from UBC's Old Armouries. Water is preheated using waste heat from an existing steam line. Cooling and air exchange is provided by 100 per cent natural ventilation.
Atriums ventilate different parts of the building through a stack effect.
High ceilings and windows that open also take advantage of natural ventilation. Offices are placed to optimize natural light, so the building requires less than one-third the artificial lighting typically used in an office building. Daylight sensors automatically dim indoor lighting. Waterless, odourless composting toilets require no sewer connections and produce fertilizer for the garden. Recycled grey water from sinks and captured rain water is used for landscape watering, cutting water consumption in half.