We are proud to share that HSS Design Build was shortlisted for two projects at the 35th Annual Emerald Awards, held on June 4, 2026. Being recognized alongside Alberta's environmental leaders is an honour and reflects our commitment to designing and building projects that reduce environmental impact while creating healthier, more resilient communities.

The Emerald Awards celebrate organizations and individuals who are advancing environmental excellence across Alberta. This year's recognition reinforces our belief that sustainable construction is not only possible - it is essential.

Emerging Solutions: Prefabricated Exterior Energy Retrofit (PEER) Research Project

Our Prefabricated Exterior Energy Retrofit (PEER) Research Project was shortlisted in the Emerging Solutions category for its innovative approach to improving the performance of existing homes.

Rather than relying on traditional, time and labour-intensive renovation methods, the PEER system explores how high-performance exterior wall panels can be prefabricated off-site and installed quickly with minimal disruption to homeowners. This approach has the potential to make deep energy retrofits faster, more scalable, and more affordable while significantly improving energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

As Canada works toward ambitious climate targets, improving the performance of existing buildings will play a critical role. Research and innovation like the PEER project help demonstrate how the construction industry can deliver meaningful environmental benefits while making high-performance retrofits more accessible.

HSS Design Build Team in the process of applying PEER panels

Green Buildings: Banff Pavilion

Our second shortlisted project, the Okâch – Îyethkabi Oûgitûbi - Banff Pavilion Building , received recognition in the Green Buildings category.

Developed in collaboration with the Town of Banff and an exceptional project team, the pavilion demonstrates how thoughtful design and modern building science can create public spaces that are both beautiful, healthy and environmentally responsible.

The building incorporates high-performance construction principles, an all-electric mechanical system, rooftop solar generation, and a highly efficient heat recovery ventilation system. Together, these features dramatically reduce operational energy use while providing a comfortable, healthy indoor environment throughout the year.

The project serves as an example of how municipalities can invest in infrastructure that supports long-term environmental goals while delivering lasting value to the community.

Okâch – Îyethkabi Oûgitûbi - Banff Pavilion Building

Building a More Sustainable Future

Although only a few projects receive recognition each year, and there are many organizations and individuals working towards more sustainable future that truly deserve recognition, we truly believe that every high-performance home, deep energy retrofit, and sustainable building contributes to a larger movement toward a lower-carbon future, and we are committed to supporting this movement every day!

We are incredibly grateful to our employees, clients, research partners such as SSRIA and IFIT, and collaborators who continue to challenge conventional construction practices and help bring innovative ideas to life. Their expertise, dedication, and shared commitment to sustainability make achievements like these possible.

Being shortlisted for two Emerald Awards is an encouragement to continue pushing the boundaries of what sustainable construction can achieve. We remain committed to creating buildings that perform better, last longer, and help shape a more sustainable future for Alberta and beyond.