Students design sustainable architectural solutions
Mary Torrefalma and Alyssa Gayot, graduates of the Architectural Technology program at Red River College Polytechnic participated in the 2024 Efficiency Manitoba Building Envelope Design Competition during their final term. The challenge was to design the outer structure of a new addition to a hockey arena in Winnipeg, including the walls, windows, and insulation. Their design had to retain heat during winter and keep buildings cool in summer, while meeting Canada’s National Energy Building Code (NECB) 2020 and Tier 3 Performance Compliance standards for energy efficiency.
The competition, hosted by Efficiency Manitoba, welcomed both students and professionals to explore innovative solutions for reducing energy consumption in buildings. According to Efficiency Canada, buildings are responsible for 18% of Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions, making sustainable design more important than ever.
The project won third place in the competition. It was an opportunity for them to apply their classroom learning to a real-world challenge.
They researched material performance, energy use, and sourcing, with a focus on choosing materials that were both efficient and locally available. Their final design featured Tyndall stone, a strong, thermally effective material that is locally sourced in Manitoba and culturally significant to the province.
Throughout the project, they developed a deeper understanding of how design choices impact long-term sustainability. Their work aligned with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including:
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, by selecting non-toxic, long-lasting materials.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, by applying technical research and innovation.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, by designing for long-term energy efficiency
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, by sourcing materials responsibly
With support from their instructors, Mary and Alyssa explored every part of the building envelope, from insulation to cladding systems. They gained hands-on experience in applying sustainable thinking to architectural design and strengthened their skills as future architectural technologists.
Mary has always been fascinated by the process of turning designs into real spaces and hopes to be part of teams that build thoughtful, efficient environments. Alyssa, who will begin her role as a Landscape Revit Technician at Architecture49, is passionate about sustainable and inclusive design. During her studies, she also volunteered as a peer supporter, student ambassador, and open-house representative.
They hope this experience inspires more students and professionals to solve real-world problems that focus on sustainability in design, and for Winnipeg’s architectural community to continue offering opportunities like this.
Connect with them on LinkedIn :
Mary Torrefalma
Alyssa Gayot
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