NATIONAL GALLERY OF CANADA

Design architect: Moshe Safdie Cost of construction and landscaping: $122 million (Area: 53,265 m2 (569,000 square feet) Height: 43 m (140 feet) Exhibition space: 12,400 m2 (132,700 square feet) Concrete poured for the building: 40,200 cubic metres (52,580 cubic yards) Granite on floors and walls: 23,250 m2 (250,000 square feet) of Tadoussac variegated rose granite Popular spots: The Great Hall, the Garden Court, the Water Court, and the Rideau Chapel

DAY LIGHTING IN CANADA

Although many may perceive Canada as not well suited to day lighting design, there are many reasons why buildings in Canada should employ day lighting techniques. Canadians spend a lot of time indoors, due to the severity and variability of the Canadian climate. Even with the cold temperatures experienced in the winter, technology advances in glazing materials allow for increased fenestration area, without a major increase in heating and cooling loads.

Average Monthly Solar Radiation in Canada

THE BUILDING IS ORIENTED AT A 45 ANGLE TO THE SOUTH, HENCE THE GALLERY RECIEVES MAXIMUM SOLAR RADIATION THROUGHOUT THE YEAR.

The atriums, courtyards and daylight galleries of the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa create a fascinating environment for visitors and provide improved lighting of the artwork.

The cathedral-like Colonnade constructed of granite and glass, which connects the main entrance of the building to the Great Hall, and glass pavilions make the museum appear open and inviting

At the southern end there is glass cupola with three angled tiers which rise majestically above the rest of the building.

Among its features establishing its presence on the horizon, is an elongated glass faced wall which is supported by external concrete pylons in groups of four.

Lower galleries involved shafts lined with reflective materials to transmit diffused daylight through the upper floors.