Guy-Metro Building renovations continue

Occupants of the Guy-Metro (GM) Building will be pleased to learn that the jackhammers have left the building as the major demolition phase of renovations is now complete.

According to John Fisher, senior project manager with Facilities Management, GM Building construction work is currently in the rebuilding phase, which involves the replacement of the remainder of the original panels, as well as interior renovation.

Metro access and lobby renovations
Panel replacement work is currently underway on the north and west sides of the building. As such, individuals can continue to access the Guy-Concordia metro via the west side entrance of the Engineering, Computer Science and Visual Arts Integrated Complex (EV) until the end of January. 

Concurrently, lobby renovations are in full swing as increased lighting is installed. “The brighter lighting will allow for a clearer view of the entrance and exit, making it more secure,” says Fisher. The ventilation system will also be modified to allow for an even distribution of air.

In order to provide better access in and out of the building, as well as more open space in front of the elevators, the security desk will soon be relocated closer to the neighbouring EV Building.

Funding and energy efficiency
Funded by the Quebec Ministry of Education, Recreation and Sport, the $14-million project involves the replacement of the original panels which were erected in the mid-‘60s and are designed to give the GM Building the same look as the EV and John Molson School of Business (MB) Buildings.

More importantly, however, the renovations represent a “greener”, more energy efficient building. The upgrade includes improved insulation, a new roof, and heating/cooling units that allow for better control over temperature and humidity. Single-pane windows will be replaced by double-pane ones filled with argon (an inert gas used in light bulbs), and a vapour barrier will be installed. The new units, combined with the new exterior, are expected to significantly reduce the consumption of natural gas.

Public Art
The GM Building lobby will be the new home to a Jordi Bonet sculpture dating back to the ‘60s (a private donation), while a Claude Théberge mural outside the building (next to the laneway on De Maisonneuve Boulevard) – erected as public artwork in the mid-‘60s when the building was constructed – is currently being restored.

“Integrating these two historic pieces at Concordia is a way of reconnecting the early history of the building to its present use,” says Clarence Epstein, director of special projects and cultural affairs for the Office of the President.

Interior
Renovation of the GM Building will not only give it the same exterior look as the EV and MB Buildings, but will also allow for the visual integration of the interior. The new floors in the lobby will be a continuation of the black granite featured in the EV Building.

Renovations within the remainder of the GM Building will commence once exterior construction is almost complete and will proceed from the first floor up.

Related links :
•    “Temporary relocation of Guy-Concordia metro entrance/exit” – NOW, October 21, 2011
•    “Construction full steam ahead” – NOW, October 5, 2011
•    “Guy-Metro Building construction update” – NOW, September 23, 2011