SEED Classroom Alberta Canada

Project Overview

This educational, portable classroom prototype was designed to provide an environmentally conscience alternative to traditional portable classroom structures.  For future use, the prototype is able to transport easily on the roadway in two parts...or all over the world. 

Why SIPS?:

This collaboration was looking for an ultra-green modular classroom prototype (part of the Living Building Challenge) and a 100% SIPS envelope (roof, walls & floors) helped fit the need perfectly.

Benefits of SIPS:

“The pre-fabricated SIPs install fast, which helped us meet a tight project time frame, and will allow for efficient construction of future SEED classrooms,” said Method Prefab Project Manager Bec Chapin. “Additionally, the SIPs help create a super-insulated envelope for a building with a very low design temperature of -24° F (-31° C).”

The prototype will eventually be located in Jasper, Alberta, where the R-40 walls and floor and R-49 roof will help reduce heating energy requirements.

A healthy structure for students in learning environments is critical for the future, and the energy efficiency from SIPS enables school districts with 60% lower operations and maintenance costs throughout its 100-year life expectancy, compared to traditional portable classrooms (according to the SEED collaborative's analysis).  

HERS Index:  Not provided +30% above code

Blower Door:  Not provided - exceptional requirements through Living Building Challenge, however. 

HVAC:  Energy recovery ventilator installed but specifics not provided - exceptional requirements through Living Building Challenge, however. 

Other Energy Saving Materials:

• Triple Glazed Windows
• LBS materials Redlist compliant
• Solar PV Array
• Greywater System
• Composting Toilet
• Handpump operated sink
• Premier SIPS, which are super insulated, enables placement of structure in climates with a design temperature of -24 degrees.
• Final envelope efficiencies include R-40 walls and R-49 roof.

Client Comments:

"Built to meet the 20 imperatives of Living Building Challenge. Each SEED Classroom houses all of the systems the classroom needs to be self-sustaining. Materials and systems are left exposed to teach students how the building works. Each classroom comes with a curriculum package developed in partnership with the International Living Future Institute that allows the building to become a living laboratory for its students."