Along with providing a first-class shopping experience, the developers of the Highstreet Mall in Abbotsford, British Columbia were attempting to build one of the first LEED®-certified shopping centers in Canada. It was in that quest for style, energy efficiency and sustainability that Kingspan insulated metal wall panels were chosen for the open-air shopping mall’s construction.
Kingspan’s Optimo™ Smooth, Optimo™ Embossed and Micro Rib insulated metal panels were specified in four colors for the project. Most were installed in a horizontal orientation with trimless ends and fabricated corners, lending to the architectural flare of the upscale development.
The mall’s anchor tenants, Wal-Mart Supercenter, London Drugs, Marshalls and a Cineplex VIP Cinema, were on a tight schedule so quick construction was essential to the project’s success. The architect, Musson Cattell Mackey, and the construction manager, Graham Construction, took advantage of Kingspan’s insulated metal panels to meet agreed-upon expectations.
The single-component nature of the Optimo Smooth, Optimo Embossed and Micro Rib panels enables fast on-site installation compared to multi-part assemblies. That’s one reason why insulated metal panels are becoming an increasingly popular construction choice. As an added benefit, Kingspan insulated metal panels contribute to energy efficiency, offering a high R-value, superior airtightness, and low thermal bridging. The combination of these features typically result in an up to 30% energy savings over the life of the building.
Optimo Smooth, Optimo Embossed and Micro Rib metal panels can be used in any climate and can be used for a variety of building types in both horizontal and vertical applications. These insulated panels are available in multiple profiles, trimless ends, finishes, and colors, to complement a wide variety of desired looks. This combination of features allowed Hightstreet to achieve LEED certification, create a striking look, and adhere to tight construction deadlines.
The Highstreet project team was very pleased with the end result. When asked why Kingspan insulated panels were chosen for this project, Kate Larson of Flynn Canada Ltd., the building envelope trade contractor for the project, said, “They have metal on both sides enabling larger spacing on stock framing. The panels up to 12 feet result in the fastest installation time. The joint and corner designs also result in the fastest installation because you don’t have to add additional metal.”
The Highstreet project exhibits the versatility and practicality of using Kingspan insulated metal panels to achieve energy efficiency with an attractive façade. The panels’ high performance allowed Highstreet to achieve LEED certification and reduce their carbon footprint, in keeping with the shopping center’s overall mission. The single-component design allowed fast installation to please their anchor tenants. High performance and aesthetics could be combined without compromise.