Reimagining What’s Possible: Revitalizing the SunRise Building

In downtown Edmonton, an aging high-rise is being transformed into a symbol of sustainability, collaboration, and renewal. Chandos Construction, in partnership with Avenue Living, M.O. George Architect, and Claroscuro Architecture, is in the finishing stages of completing a deep energy retrofit of the SunRise Building—formerly Capital Tower. Built in 1970, the 12-storey, 11,400 sq. ft. structure is being reimagined as a modern, mixed-use space focused on affordable housing and environmental performance through decarbonization of GHG emissions.

Chandos took on the project because it aligned with its values. “This was the kind of challenge we thrive on—complex, collaborative, and community-focused,” says Dustin Tonsi, Project Manager at Chandos. “We saw not only the opportunity to revitalize a neglected space but to help lead a meaningful urban renewal effort.”

The deep energy retrofit includes full mechanical and electrical upgrades, abatement and remediation, a modernized building envelope, redesigned suites with LED lighting, updated kitchens and bathrooms, and new amenity spaces. The building will also feature Canada’s largest array of solar panels integrated into its cladding, which—alongside improvements to the mechanical and electrical systems and building envelope—is projected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 64 per cent. The panels double as public art—an 85-foot mural by Indigenous artist Lance Cardinal, blending Indigenous and Asian influences.

“The SunRise Building shows what’s possible when smart design meets strong partnerships,” says Neal Shannon, EVP, Capital Projects at Avenue Living. “This was a complex retrofit but by collaborating and focusing on sustainability and efficiency, we transformed an underused property into modern, affordable housing. It highlights how smart retrofits can breathe new life into existing structures, and the neighbourhoods around them.”

Chandos emphasized communication throughout, holding 78 weekly meetings, 68 trade-specific sessions, and frequent walkthroughs. This helped the team manage issues common in retrofit projects, such as structural unknowns and material delays.

“Projects like this succeed because of trust,” adds Tonsi. “We weren’t just managing trades—we were building relationships that allowed us to navigate surprises together.”

The architectural team saw the building as more than just a technical challenge. “When I first walked through the building, it was in significant disrepair, and the scope was modest,” says M.O. George, Principal at M.O. George Architect. “But we saw potential—this was an opportunity to transform a neglected structure and reimagine it as a valuable community asset. What began as a straightforward renovation quickly evolved into a deep energy retrofit, complete with a solar façade and upgraded infrastructure. The result is a dramatically more sustainable building, but also one that people are excited to live in.”

Due to the expanded scope, Claroscuro Architecture was brought in for technical support of the extensive interior renovation of all floors during the construction phase. Community feedback shaped the second-floor amenity hub, which includes a yoga room, communal kitchen, games lounge, and golf simulator. Avenue Living co-designed the spaces, and Claroscuro Architecture led the design.

“This project involved a drastic renovation that required high-quality communication and collaboration between the client, contractor, and architects. This teamwork allowed the entire group to respond to unexpected conditions and evolve the design effectively. Collaborative communication during construction always leads to better buildings, which will hopefully translate into a stronger community in and around the building once the project is in use,” says Tara McCashin, Principal Architect at Claroscuro Architecture.

The Chandos team bridged language barriers, navigating a high number of ESL trade workers by adding Ukrainian subtitles for site orientations and maintained safety, requiring crews to always have a translator onsite when they had non-English speaking workers. They worked diligently and exceeded air tightness targets and achieved partial occupancy, allowing leasing of the building to occur over 3 months ahead of final occupancy.

“We’re proud of the impact this project will have,” says Tonsi. “It’s a reminder that with the right team and mindset, even the most overlooked spaces can be transformed into something meaningful.”

www.chandos.com