This story isn't just about beauty. It's about brains.

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), lighting and security systems have been in buildings for years. Having each controlled by a central computer (or even a phone) is revolutionary. This is made possible through IP (internet protocol); an electronic communications method that can be programmed to do uncommon things. But uncommon innovation is what EllisDon is all about.   

It begins with partnership and a plan.

In 2009, EllisDon and Cisco began working together to develop the next generation of connected buildings. PwC Tower at 18 York in Toronto represents our first completed commercial building collaboration. All 650,000 square feet on 26 floors of 18 York are now wired for custom control. But we also needed the willing participation and forward thinking of building ownership and their primary tenant, PricewaterhouseCoopers. Together, we built one of the most advanced, IP-connected buildings in Canada.

By breaking down the usual siloed approach to building, we saved money on construction costs in the short term. But these advancements will continue to pay dividends for years to come. Why? Because all building systems can now communicate over what amounts to a central nervous system. 

A difference occupants can feel.

The improvements are far from abstract – from tenants to owners, these technological advancements are things to be experienced. A single, intelligent Cisco infrastructure allows for many enhancements to the tenant experience beyond just providing cutting-edge wireless and communications networks. Third-party applications allow for lighting control to personalize offices and conference rooms, with control of window blinds and audio-visual capabilities. And it can all be regulated by a converged network, password and firewall protected, from the convenience of a phone. 

A difference building management and owners can appreciate.

Building management will be able to control everything, easily. They'll be able to set environmental controls, automatically shut them off when they're not being used, and adjust them as needed. Data from previously disparate functions, helps building management monitor and improve performance more efficiently and save energy like never before. Unparalleled diagnostics will detect faults in building systems (including heating, ventilation and cooling) performing continuous analysis, and predicting building performance. If something goes wrong, they'll know where, when and how and who to send to fix it – what building management was always meant to be.

Want to know more about EllisDon's ICT services? Talk to us.

Stephen Foster
Director of Information Communication Technology Services
866-998-1387