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In addition to high-density server rooms and related facilities, the QScale campus includes an energy recovery and waste heat recovery system that could, for example, meet the needs of an adjacent agricultural greenhouse project. This first building, with a surface area of 24,280 square meters, also includes the company's head office in a five-story section of the building, featuring an exposed timber structure.
The MSDL project team strove to realize the client's vision of an exemplary project in terms of sustainable development, carbon footprint reduction, and the use of local resources and products. As a shining example, the wood structure of the head office section created by Nordic Structures is visible from the moment one enters the site, and is apparent from almost everywhere, thanks to the glass curtain wall design and open-plan office layout. The result is a totally unusual architecture for a computer processing center.
The main beams were cantilevered beyond the columns to allow for a peripheral circulation area. The curtain wall in this part of the building is glazed with electrochromic glass, adapting throughout the day according to light, glare, and energy use. In addition, close coordination between the architects and engineers ensured the harmonious integration of all visible electromechanical elements into the wood frame. Their rhythmic positioning and the choice of a uniform white color, resulted in a warm, pure office environment that enhances the wood structure.

Rich Christianson is the owner of Richson Media LLC, a Chicago-based communications firm focused on the industrial woodworking sector. Rich is the former long-time editorial director and associate publisher of Woodworking Network. During his nearly 35-year career, Rich has toured more than 250 woodworking operations throughout North America, Europe and Asia and has written extensively on woodworking technology, design and supply trends. He has also directed and promoted dozens of woodworking trade shows, conferences and seminars including the Cabinets & Closets Conference & Expo and the Woodworking Machinery & Supply Conference & Expo, Canada’s largest woodworking show.
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