Canada: University of Calgary
TRTL â Technological Residence, Traditional Living
TRTL (Technological Residence, Traditional Living) is a unique response to the culture of Treaty 7 Native Peoples in Southern Alberta. Inspired by the tipi, the house relates to the sun as the traditional source of energy and life. The two-bedroom, open-concept design is flexible and includes ample space for storage, recreation, and communal gatherings for meals.
Design Philosophy
TRTL integrates technology and tradition. The design is guided by a holistic view of the home as a living part of a greater natural order. Green building materials and renewable energy technologies are healthy, safe, durable, and affordable. The result is a house that respects the value of culture in promoting sustainability.
Features
- The materials and color palettes reflect customary art and the natural environment.
- The magnesium oxide-based structural insulated panels are highly resistant to fire and mold.
- The 8.3-kW photovoltaic system is engineered for performance in Alberta's harsh winters.
Technologies
- A highly effective air-to-water heat pump provides space conditioning and hot water.
- The photovoltaic system operates at 93% of its optimal efficiency and has a rounded form that responds to the cultural desires of the client.
- The sophisticated control system allows for monitoring and long-term optimization.
Market Strategy
Canada has more than 600 native groups, totaling more than 1.1 million people. Housing failures challenges for groups include sub-standard design, implementation, and maintenance as well as demand that far exceeds supply. The collaborative design, validation, and cross-cultural dialogue employed in the creation of TRTL provide a model for affecting positive change.
What's Next
The team is exploring opportunities to place TRTL on campus or in the community. A legacy team will implement post-competition monitoring, LEED certification, lifecycle analysis, and design refinement based on lessons learned. An interactive education program will also engage native Kâ12 students.
