February 19, 2025
Winnipeg, Manitoba – The new national headquarters for Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company embodies the company’s core values, strategic vision, and commitment to sustainability. The 21-storey office tower is designed to the highest standards of environmental responsibility and employee well-being, incorporating workplace innovations that highlight the importance of wellness, connectivity, collaboration, and engagement. Achieving a Gold-level LEED v4 Building Design and Construction (Core and Shell) certification, the project showcases Wawanesa's dedication to creating a sustainable and progressive workplace for its employees.
Sustainability was a guiding principle throughout the design and construction of the building, which met the rigorous LEED v4 certification standards with the help of the project team, including True North Square and PCL Construction. Key strategies focused on energy efficiency, water conservation, responsible material selection, and promoting active and public transportation. Designed with these principles at its core, the headquarters reflects Wawanesa’s commitment to its people and the environment.
Located adjacent to the transformative True North Square and its large outdoor civic plaza Wawanesa’s new headquarters integrates seamlessly into Winnipeg’s evolving downtown. Over the past few years, this area has transformed into a vibrant hub of business, culture, and entertainment, an ideal setting for a project that not only prioritizes sustainability and employee well-being but also contributes to the city's broader revitalization efforts. The location earned valuable LEED points for transportation, supporting eco-friendly commuting with easy access to public transit, bike parking, shower facilities, and electric vehicle charging stations.
A notable aspect of the building is its energy efficiency. The building achieved a 42% reduction in energy costs, thanks to a combination of an airtight building envelope, triple-pane windows, and highly efficient mechanical systems. This significant reduction aligns with Canada's broader goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Material selection was carefully considered to enhance indoor air quality and reduce environmental impact. The project team specified low-emitting materials and products that have undergone environmental reviews, contributing to a healthier indoor environment with fewer VOCs (volatile organic compounds) off-gassing from building materials. This focus on air quality not only minimizes health risks but also supports employee well-being and productivity, creating a work environment that fosters focus, comfort, and long-term health. Additionally, the PCL team excelled in waste management, diverting more than three quarters of construction waste from the landfill.
The Wawanesa Headquarters exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to sustainable development, blending cutting-edge design with a deep commitment to environmental responsibility and employee wellness. Its LEED Gold certification is a testament to the successful collaboration between the project team, Wawanesa, and True North Square in creating a space that not only meets the needs of today but also contributes to a more sustainable future. As a landmark in downtown Winnipeg, the building stands as a model for future developments that prioritize green practices, innovation, setting a new standard for urban revitalization.