University Of Calgary - Mackimmie Complex Civil And Landscape Redevelopment

Located at the heart of the University of Calgary, the revitalization of Swann Mall and its adjacent areas aims to naturalize and return the land to its foothills ecological state. The existing 21,900 m2 space surrounding the landmark MacKimmie Complex is being sequentially demolished and rebuilt in two phases. Both phases include excavation allowing for civil upgrades, as well as completely new softscapes, hardscapes, site furnishings, and irrigation systems. 

With Public safety of the utmost importance, adaptable and detailed logistics plans were developed not only to ensure minimal impact to the diverse campus population, but also to meet the Universities access egress requirements of the multiple surrounding complexes. Strict safety provisions and multiple phases of temporary pathways were implemented by the team to provide access and thoroughfare for the campus population throughout the various construction phases.

The reconstruction features sustainable soils and grasses, specified to reintroduce indigenous species of vegetation to the newly functional urban space. A modern drip line irrigation system efficiently supports the new wide-spread diverse greenspaces. While existing sculptures and artwork were carefully removed, protected, and reinstalled, new hardscape upgrades include a network of intersecting curved pathways and combined custom millwork and cast-in-place concrete seating.

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