A zero-carbon, 1.2-million-square-foot logistics facility recognized as the largest industrial project in Canada to achieve Zero Carbon Building Design Certification.
The building was planned for flexible multi-tenant occupancy, with a site layout that supports secure independent operations. High-performance assemblies and fully electrified systems reduce energy demand, while 200 vertical store dock levelers improve envelope performance and thermal continuity.
Large portions of the site are dedicated to ecological repair rather than remanent landscaping. Restored creek corridors and wetlands improve stormwater performance, while woodlot edges and constructed habitat features support birds, reptiles, amphibians, and pollinators. These naturalized areas reinforce the project’s environmental mandate at a larger site scale.
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Location
Ajax, ON
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Client
Lakeridge Logistics
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Year
2019-2025
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Status
Completed
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Program
Logistics Facility
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Principal
Glenn Piotrowski
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Team
Geza Tormasi
Barbara Konieczny-Young
Despite its scale, the building avoids a purely utilitarian appearance. Carefully selected materials and detailing introduce depth and articulation, particularly at the office areas.
Perforated metal screens, pre-weathered copper-toned panels, and recessed glazing elements create a more legible, human-scaled presence. Rooftop mechanical equipment is fully screened—an uncommon but intentional decision that reinforces the project’s disciplined architectural language and consideration for urban design principles.
Lakeridge Logistics serves as a proof of concept for the industrial sector—demonstrating that zero-carbon, high-performance buildings are achievable today, even within speculative development models.
Although it is a significant percentage of our built infrastructure, the industrial sector is not often considered in discussions about sustainable design. Having achieved Net Zero Building certification and pursuing LEED Gold, this project provides a much-needed, transferable example of what can be achieved.
JURY COMMENT
SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE & BUILDING MAGAZINE GREEN BUILDING AWARDS
9.36
Acre industrial property with 17.8 acres restored to naturalized heritage areas.
The naturalized areas focus on preserving and enhancing ecosystems with restored creek corridors, wetlands, woodlands, and habitats for fish, reptiles, amphibians, and birds.
1.2M
Sq. Ft. speculative logistics facility.
The largest industrial property in Canada to attain Zero Carbon Design Certification.
60%
Of the building’s roof is designed to support a solar array.
This translates to about 600,000 square feet of potential solar coverage yielding approximately a 3-megawatt solar installation.
66
Bicycle parking spaces.
Increases commuting opportunities for employees using the nearby cycling infrastructure.
100%
Reduction in outdoor water usage.
The site design uses drought tolerant plants and species to eliminate the need for irrigation systems.
200
Vertical store dock leveler positions.
The advanced hydraulic dock systems store upright inside the building, sealing the dock door opening for superior temperature control, cleanliness, and security.
70%
Of construction materials diverted from landfill.
The construction phase implemented a strict Waste Management Plan, identifying, sorting, and recycling materials like concrete, wood, metal, and drywall.
53.5K
Kilograms of carbon emissions reduced on an annual basis and a 26% reduction in annual energy use.
The equivalent to the carbon captured by 885 trees over 10 years.
After 47 years our goal remains the same – to foster long-term relationships while delivering industry leading projects across Canada.