The Madison, part of Siloam Mission in Winnipeg, is a supportive housing facility for individuals facing mental health challenges, cognitive or physical disabilities, or other barriers to independent living. Originally built as a nurses’ residence, the building was purchased in 2011 by Siloam Mission and was in dire need of modernized HVAC and electrical systems to enhance resident safety and comfort.
“We wanted people to come into this space and see that they really mattered and give them the dignity they deserved,” said Tessa Blaikie Whitecloud, CEO of Siloam Mission.
They also prioritized energy efficiency to help reduce operational costs, as the charity runs entirely on donor funding.
To achieve this goal, Siloam Mission partnered with Alliance Engineering Services, EH Price and Jaga Climate Systems to implement a cutting-edge HVAC solution tailored to the unique needs of its residents.
Prior to the upgrade, the Madison relied on outdated steam radiators for heating the small residential rooms, which did not exceed 150-square feet.This presented several challenges:
Engineers specified a two-pipe system with a decoupled energy recovery ventilator (ERV) for outside air. The solution included 132 Briza-12 fan coils with casings selected for their compact size, quiet operation, and compatibility with low-temperature water systems. They also fit easily within the space previously occupied by the steam radiators.
The key benefits of the system included:
Resident-Centric Installation
To minimize disruption to the Madison’s residents who often have cognitive or mental health challenges, project managers gave careful consideration to the installation process. Traditional HVAC installations can be intrusive, but the Briza-12 units arrived pre-assembled and were mounted and piped within two hours per unit.
“Initially, we considered moving residents during the installation,” said David, an engineer from Alliance Engineering Services. “But the process was so efficient that we didn’t need to. It was seamless and respectful of the residents’ needs.”
The new HVAC system not only improved the physical environment but also reinforced the dignity and safety of the Madison’s residents. With the new system, residents enjoy a more comfortable and livable space. The operational savings in reduced energy costs allow Siloam Mission to allocate more resources toward other services. And most importantly, it is quiet and efficient, which supports the health and well-being of the residents.
“Jaga’s approach is different,” David added. “They prioritize the people using their systems. From the design phase to installation, everything was seamless and client-focused.”
For Siloam Mission, the HVAC upgrade was more than a technical improvement; it was a commitment to dignity and well-being for residents. With Jaga’s Briza-12 fan coils, the Madison has set a new standard for supportive housing facilities, proving that thoughtful design and technology can create spaces that truly matter.
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