WZMH Architects release ‘Remake It Better’

WZMH Architects release ‘Remake It Better’: A thorough recladding handbook

In a bold step towards redefining urban architecture, Toronto-based WZMH Architects has unveiled its digital recladding guide, Remake It Better, at the BuildGreen Atlantic event in Halifax, Nova Scotia. With over 60 years of experience in designing iconic office towers, WZMH has a wealth of expertise in the vital process of renewing these structures. This guide serves as an invaluable resource for property owners and developers looking to enhance their buildings’ performance, appearance and occupant comfort.

The WZMH Recladding Guide delves into the “why’s” and “how’s” of recladding, providing a detailed framework for understanding how redesigning building envelopes can breathe new life into aging office towers. It also features a robust suite of recladding options, categorised into seven distinct types, ranging from the targeted replacement of specific elements—such as cladding panels or glazing—to complete reskinning of entire facades.

Evolving Objectives

While the replacement of building components nearing the end of their service life often triggers the need for recladding, the guide highlights the expanding range of objectives that motivate such projects. As Nicola Casciato, WZMH principal, explains, “A recladding is a real opportunity to give a building a new voice in many different ways—from an aesthetic standpoint, from a sustainability standpoint and from a user comfort standpoint.”

Harrison Chan, another WZMH principal, points to the growing emphasis on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors, which have recontextualised the reasons for recladding. “As recently as a decade ago, our clients were primarily interested in recladding for reasons related to capital repair work and perhaps also rebranding,” Chan notes. “These are still important considerations, but now ‘net zero’ and ‘carbon’ are often the words that kick-start the conversation.”

Case Studies of Success

The guide showcases five compelling case studies from Toronto’s Financial District, each illustrating WZMH’s tailored approach to client objectives and existing building conditions. One notable example is the recladding of 121 King Street West, a 25-storey tower completed in 1984. The project arose from the need to replace overly reflective glass that distorted views for occupants. Finished in 2023, the recladding not only resolved this issue but also improved the building’s airtightness and modernised its overall aesthetic. Importantly, much of the renovation was conducted from the exterior using mast-climbing platforms, allowing the building to remain fully occupied during construction.

Another standout project featured in the guide is the Bell Canada tower at 76 Adelaide Street West, a 16-storey structure dating back to the 1960s. In this case, the deteriorating facade was completely removed and replaced with large, curved glass panels that echo the geometry of sound waves, resulting in a striking new appearance that embodies the dynamic nature of telecommunications.

WZMH’s Remake It Better guide represents a significant advancement in the conversation around building maintenance and sustainability. By integrating modern design principles with a focus on environmental responsibility, WZMH is leading the way in helping building owners understand the evolving rationale for recladding in the context of ESG and net-zero goals.

As urban environments continue to face the challenges of ageing infrastructure and climate change, resources like this guide will be essential for those looking to invest in the future of their buildings. With WZMH’s expertise at hand, the journey to rejuvenate aging office towers becomes an exciting opportunity for innovation and sustainability. For more insights and to access the guide, visit WZMH Architects’ website https://www.wzmh.com/.