Cameco Executive Offices, River Landing Tower, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Owner/Operator: Cameco Corporation
Architect: Kindrachuk Agrey Architecture

Acoustic Consulting for a Landmark Corporate Office Fit-out in Downtown Saskatoon

Cameco, headquartered in Saskatoon, is one of the world’s largest uranium producers, supplying nuclear fuel for low-carbon electricity generation worldwide. The company is relocating its executive offices to the top floor of Saskatoon’s River Landing Tower—an architecturally prominent mixed-use development overlooking the South Saskatchewan River.

The 13th-floor fit-out, approximately 370 m², will accommodate a high-performance executive workspace, including private offices, a reception area, a bistro, meeting rooms, and a mezzanine-level boardroom positioned within a striking double-height volume.

HGC Noise Vibration Acoustics was retained to provide a full acoustical design review supporting the interior build-out. With executive functions, confidential discussions, and high-profile stakeholder engagement expected within the space, the design required careful control of background noise, speech privacy, mechanical system noise, and reverberation—particularly in areas with extensive glazing and exposed architectural elements.

Understanding the Acoustic Environment of the New Executive Offices

HGC conducted a detailed site assessment, measuring existing sound and vibration conditions throughout the floor. Elevated ambient levels were identified in several areas, including distinct mechanical events in the elevator lobby that could intrude into reception and circulation spaces without proper mitigation.

Overall, mechanical systems, inter-floor sound flanking paths, and extensive glazing were identified as the dominant acoustic considerations shaping HGC’s recommendations.

Designing for Executive-Level Acoustical Privacy and Comfort

Mechanical Background Noise Targets

HGC established background noise criteria aligned with ASHRAE/ANSI guidance and executive-level expectations: NC 30 for offices and meeting rooms, NC 25 for the boardroom, and NC 35–40 for open and bistro areas. These levels provide a neutral and unobtrusive acoustic backdrop suited to focused work, presentations, and confidential discussions.

Predicted noise contributions from the air handling units and VAV systems were assessed against these targets. HGC recommended improvements where needed, including better return air distribution in the south portion to reduce flow noise during peak operation.

Mechanical and Electrical Noise Mitigation

To reduce tonal transformer noise and limit structure-borne vibration, HGC recommended that the landlord install neoprene isolation pads under base building transformer supports. Similar measures were advised for the chiller and elevator machine room equipment where tonal or mechanical noise could migrate through the structure.

Sound Masking for Speech Privacy

Given the adjacency of open areas to private offices, HGC recommended a sound masking system calibrated to approximately 45 dBA in open zones and up to 40 dBA in private offices (depending on the desired level of speech privacy). Properly tuned masking provides a consistent, controlled background sound, that enhances speech privacy without becoming intrusive.

Achieving Acoustic Separation and Confidentiality

HGC confirmed that the proposed wall and glazing systems provide strong separation suitable for executive offices and meeting rooms. Standard partitions offer reliable privacy, while higher-rated walls are used in key areas. Additional sealing at perimeter and curtainwall details was recommended to limit noise flanking between floors.

To ensure the space performs as intended, HGC emphasized good airtight construction—full-height walls, sealed mullions, properly treated penetrations, and well-gasketed doors—helping maintain consistent acoustic privacy throughout the suite.

Reverberation and Interior Acoustic Quality

The fit-out includes tall ceilings and extensive glazing, which can cause sound to build up and reduce speech clarity. To maintain acoustic comfort, HGC recommended ceilings with good acoustic absorption characteristics in the open office areas, added absorption within private offices, and targeted wall treatments in the mezzanine boardroom and atrium where ceiling heights are greatest.

Supporting Cameco’s Vision for a High-Performance Workplace

The executive fit-out at River Landing Tower reflects Cameco’s commitment to a sophisticated, functional, and acoustically comfortable environment for its leadership team. Through detailed measurement, analysis, and close collaboration with the architectural and base-building teams, HGC established the acoustic foundation necessary for a workspace that supports confidential conversations, strategic planning, and high-level engagement—enhanced by acoustic performance that elevates the overall experience.

HGC Noise Vibration Acoustics’ Scope of Work Included

• Comprehensive acoustical design review for architectural, mechanical, and electrical systems
• On-site acoustic and vibration measurements of existing 13th-floor conditions
• Background noise and mechanical system analysis aligned with ASHRAE/ANSI criteria
• Recommendations for HVAC noise control, vibration isolation, and airflow noise reduction
• Speech privacy strategy, including sound masking recommendations
• Review and optimization of partition assemblies, glazing systems, and flanking paths
• Reverberation control analysis for offices, meeting rooms, the mezzanine boardroom, and open areas
• Detailed guidance on acoustical detailing, penetrations, sealing, and door hardware
• Ongoing coordination support with the architect and landlord throughout design development