Fort McMurray, Alberta
Shell’s Albian Sands oil sands site in the Athabasca Oil Sands Project is made up of the Jackpine Mine and Muskeg River Mine, which together produce 255,000 barrels per day. These mines feed the Scotford Upgrader, which processes oil sands bitumen for refined oil products. SAHURI + Partners were commissioned to design an Administration Complex for the Jackpine Mine, which was later completed in 2009, and serves as a control centre for all mine operations. This $36.9 million, 80,500 sf. Mission Critical Building is arranged around a central spine that creates a safe, secure, and efficient work environment. Separate functions can be directly accessed from this central spine, providing a physical link between each group. The structure wears an interesting, layered façade that incorporates the earthy colours often exposed during open-pit mining activities. Angles are applied to the exterior that are inspired by the angled roads spiraled around the mines that support massive haul trucks in their work. A few sporadically placed windows are also angled in their positioning in keeping with this theme. The main building was built using conventional construction, with an adjoined pre-engineered warehouse and shop. This multi-use structure accommodates designated areas for administration, plant control rooms, permit facilities, employee amenities, warehouses, maintenance shop, and emergency fire and medical response services. Additional facilities include a cafeteria, fire hall bay, and locker room and shower facilities for staff.