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Register early for the 2009 AIBC Annual Conference and attend featured sessions. Space is limited, don't miss out. More...
If you have trouble viewing this page, please click here.
Register early for the 2009 AIBC Annual Conference and attend featured sessions. Space is limited, don't miss out. More...
The institute has begun to roll out a new database system. Considerable work has been done to capture the information stored in our old database, review that data, and load it into the new system. As the transition continues, some regular services have been delayed. A prime example is online transcripts, which will not be available until April 15, as well as some requested status or database changes that have not yet been entered into the new system. Your patience and understanding is appreciated as we make the transition to a better and more efficient member information management system.
The AIBC’s Professional Development Department is in the process of inputting submissions for interim reporting of learning units. All AIBC registrants are required to continue self-reporting their LUs, either on line or by fax/mail. As another step toward the “greening” of the AIBC, the Professional Development Department will no longer be mailing out an interim transcript. Instead, you will be able to view this transcript on line. All submissions received by March 1, 2009 will be recorded as soon as possible. Please check your on-line record from April 15 onward to ensure it is accurate. Final reporting of learning activities for the “seventh” reporting period remains June 30, 2009.
Ideas Competition Promises to Shift Vancouver's Face and Form
Vancouver - The Architectural Institute of British Columbia and the City of Vancouver are pleased to announce their partnership in an exciting new ideas competition that will help shape the changing face of the city. FormShift Vancouver invites architects, designers and anyone else with creative flair to submit innovative built form ideas that will guide Vancouver’s future growth.
A total of 90 teams have entered the competition, with many submitting multiple projects. They now have until April 6, 2009 to make their project submissions. Adjudication will take place on April 10, and winners announced on April 15.
Following the completion of the competition, the best submissions will be featured as part of an ongoing series of public exhibitions and community dialogues. Detailed information is available on the FormShift Vancouver web site: www.formshiftvancouver.ca.
Next session: April 14, 2009
4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
AIBC Offices, #100 – 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver
Please join us for the third in a series of information workshops on the proposed new Architectural Professions Act. Each of these progressive sessions will focus on specific aspects of the proposed new legislation. These workshops are part of AIBC Council’s commitment to additional consultation, leading to a full-day session at the 2009 AIBC Annual Conference. Each workshop will focus on different aspects of the proposed legislative changes. The outline for the next session is as follows:
Proposed Framework for Bylaws
Proposed Framework for Scope of Practice
Notes from the March 9 session are available here.
Please note that agenda items may change. Also, this does not preclude discussion of other items where time permits. Everyone is welcome to attend. Please confirm your attendance at communications@aibc.ca.
Online and fax registrations are now being accepted for the 2009 AIBC Annual Conference. Click here to visit the conference web site. Detailed session information, including a downloadable version of the conference program, is also available (click here).
The 2009 conference theme, Legacy Building, acknowledges the permanence and importance of architecture in developing our communities with a special nod to the province’s role as host of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Conference sessions address a wide range of timely topics including sustainability, science & technology, health, social responsibility, education, business, sport, cultural heritage and design.
For questions, please contact communications@aibc.ca.
T12
Legacy of the 2010 Olympics Panel
1.5 Core LUs
The bid to host the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games was spurred, if not originally conceived, by the desire to create infrastructure and facilities for a city and region. However, what often is filled with promise during the early stages can fail to deliver and become a financial burden to taxpayers in the end. Yet there are shining examples where the final reality equals or exceeds original intent. What does architecture and infrastructure say about a city? What were the physical legacy promises of hosting the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, and will expectations be met? What are the lessons for future bid cities?
Panelists:
Submissions are now being accepted for the 2009 Annual AIBC Architectural Awards. This program recognizes excellence in completed architectural projects led or designed by AIBC members while encouraging public interest in B.C. architects and architecture. The deadline for submissions is Monday, April 6, 2009 at 12:00 noon. Detailed information including award categories and submission guidelines is available at http://www.aibc.ca/conference/awards.html#goals.
Now is the time to consider your sponsorship selection for the 2009 AIBC Annual Conference. Sponsorship provides a prime opportunity for organizations to strengthen brand recognition while accessing hundreds of potential clients, partners and colleagues. The AIBC offers four sponsorship tiers to choose from, each with a select range of benefits. Sponsors may choose to sponsor conference streams or individual sessions; meals; social events; professional recognition celebrations; and much more. With opportunities flexibly priced from $10,000 - $1,500, there’s something to fit every budget. Please contact AIBC Communications Specialist Lisa Toyne at ltoyne@aibc.ca for more information or to book your sponsorship.
A: The current tariff is not mandatory. However the guiding principles within the current tariff are and would apply. Different fee guidelines for different sizes / types of projects may need to be established to take into account the size / scope of work the new legislation will now capture.
Click here to read more from the proposed new legislation web page.
For those registrants wishing to complete the AIBC’s Building Envelope Education Program (BEEP), now is your chance. Follow the link to our Professional Development web page and check out the scheduled dates as well as the course descriptions. These courses are only offered once a year, so don’t miss out. Send in your completed registration form as early as possible for each course. The next offering is: BEEP Module V: Extreme Environments—Advanced Envelope Design, Friday, June 5, 2009.
6 Core LUs
Building Science and the Building Envelope (Available Online)
Topics for Module I include:
The Outdoor and Indoor Environment
Conditions Within the Envelope
Materials and Their Moisture Content
Rain Penetration
Pressure Differences Due to Wind
Predicting Building Envelope Performance
For more information, please contact Professional Development Coordinator Catherine Bolter at cbolter@aibc.ca or at (604) 683-8588, extension 312.
18 Core LUs
The AIBC 2009 PD/CES Course Schedule and Registration Form are available online at www.aibc.ca/member_resources/professional_dev/index.html
Bringing nature inside through responsible design
This program includes:
This free event takes place on Wednesday, April 22 (Earth Day), 4:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the BC Showcase & Hosting Space, 800 Robson Street, Vancouver.
Space is limited so please R.S.V.P. as soon as possible to Roy Manion by e-mail (rmanion@bcwood.com) or phone (604-882-7100).
2 Core LUs
Life Cycle Costing for Green Building Design Workshop
This session will introduce ASTM and ISO Building Economics Standards, and impart the skills necessary to apply the Life Cycle Costing (LCC) methodology to the evaluation and analysis of investments in buildings - specifically in the field of energy efficiency and “green” buildings.
April 20, 2009 Vancouver - for more information or to register, please visit http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/life_cycle_costing_09.html.
April 22, 2009 Kelowna - for more information or to register, please visit http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/lcc_kelowna_09.html.
April 24, 2009 Victoria - for more information or to register, please visit http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/lcc_victoria_09.html.
6.5 Core LUs
Energy Simulation Software Training Using EE4 Version 1.70
This two-day, hands-on software training workshop will provide sound knowledge to engineers, architects and other design professionals on how to add value and appeal to renovation and new construction clients. The focus will be on using EE4 to demonstrate compliance with ecoEnergy and/or LEED®-Canada NC, and to help optimize the energy performance of new commercial designs and significant renovations through energy efficiency analyses using simulation. This seminar is in partnership with Natural Resources Canada. It takes place April 21 - 22, 2009 in Burnaby. For more information or to register, please visit http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/ee4%20apr%2009.html.
13 Core LUs
Managing Project Costs (Cranbrook)
This full-day workshop is for technical personnel involved in capital projects (not for accountants). While it will include how project cost management systems tie into corporate accounting systems, this session will be more about forecasting future costs than recording historical costs. It is being held in Cranbrook on April 23.For more information or to register, please visit http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/man_proj_costs_cranbrook.html.
6.5 Core LUs
Building Envelope Solutions Conference
This conference will provide insights into the how's and why's of design problems and successes, along with examining new technologies and proven strategies to help improve the service life of a building. It happens Thursday, April 30, 2009 at the Hyatt Regency, Vancouver. For details or to register, please visit http://www.buildingenvelopeforum.com/conferenceVAN09.html
6 Core LUs
Construction Law – Getting Paid in Tough Times
Expert faculty will walk you through the lifecycle of a construction project and provide practical and immediate solutions to claw back money that is rightfully owed to you as well as ensure payment on future projects. Issues to be addressed include:
Methods of managing construction contract risks in current economic times;
Contract terms of which you need to be aware;
How to best protect your position after the contract is signed;
Proactive strategies you can implement to ensure payment;
Steps to take when you don’t get paid;
Issues involved in terminating a contract;
A practical look at litigation and other options;
The nuts and bolts of builders’ liens; and
Essential issues in insolvency - preventative measures and practical tactics.
It takes place June 10, 2009, at UBC Robson Square in Vancouver. For more information or to register, please visit www.pbli.com/787
5.5 Core LUs
Green Roof Technology Workshop
Xero Flor is hosting a Green Roof Technology workshop that will feature four speakers covering a range of subjects on design and construction of green roof systems, roofing assemblies, leak detection and much more. There are two presentations planned:
Victoria: Tuesday April 14, Swan Suites Hotel, 506 Pandora Avenue
Vancouver: Thursday April 16, Plaza 500 Hotel, 500 West 12th Avenue
Registration and continental breakfast begins at 8.30 a.m., with the workshop from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Register before April 2 for the special early bird rate of $99 for the workshop, lunch and info package. For more information, please click here.
5 Core LUs
Cultural Landscapes
From the landscapes associated with historic buildings, industries and rural communities, to traditional use sites of First Nations peoples, cultural landscapes are tremendously diverse resources that present special preservation and management challenges. This course focuses on the nature of cultural landscapes, and develops your ability to identify, evaluate, and develop preservation strategies for landscape resources that are integral to your community. Topics include:
defining and reading cultural landscapes;
recognizing evolving interactions between natural systems and human interventions;
evaluating heritage values, significance, and integrity;
planning sustainable management strategies; and
balancing conflicting resources and uses.
The fee for this six-day course (April 20-25) is $641, including a $70 materials fee (Canadian funds, credit and non-credit participation options). A $170 registration deposit is required with each registration. Please register by March 23. Late registrations will only be accepted if space permits. To register, please visit https://www.uvcs.uvic.ca/forms/crm/online_reg.aspx.
36 Non-core LUs
Pacific Northwest Region Conference
In anticipation of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, the theme of the upcoming Pacific Northwest Region Conference is "Reaching for Gold.” It represents the efforts to achieve excellence in the planning and design of top quality educational facilities, and is reflected in the excellent keynote speakers, presentations, working sessions, and site tours that are offered. The conference takes place April 29 – May 2, 2009, at Marriott Pinnacle Hotel in Vancouver. For more information or to register, please visit http://www.cefpi.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3593.
5 Core LUs / 4 Non-core LUs
Local Government 2009: How to Avoid Liability, Minimize Risk, and Prepare for Market Change
In an unstable market, liability exposure and damage awards are on the rise. As litigation costs continue to escalate, it is imperative that municipalities are aware of potential liability issues and how to best address them. Failure to stay on top of the latest challenges facing local governments can lead to serious consequences. Additionally, as the legal and financial landscape under which municipalities operate continues to change, having the necessary knowledge and tools is essential. Participants in this two-day session will learn how to avoid lawsuits, minimize risk, prevent costly litigation and economic loss, and prepare for market change. It happens April 29 – 30, 2009, at the Renaissance Vancouver Hotel Harbourside. Note: AIBC members receive a 10% discount on the registration fee (please quote A10/773 when you register). For more information and to register, please visit http://www.pbli.com/773/.
12 Non-core LUs
The Life and Death of Cities: Accounting for Environmental and Social Sustainability
For all their vibrancy and liveliness, modern cities face a growing challenge of providing secure and sustainable places to live. Even the world’s most “livable cities” — such asVancouver, Melbourne and Helsinki — are, in historical terms, utterly unsustainable. Paul James, Director of both the Global Cities Institute (RMIT) and the United Nations Global Compact - Cities Programme, will speak to the notion that unless we rethink the ways that we present sustainability to ourselves and learn to act differently, crisis will become a way of life. This lecture takes place on Thursday, April 30, 2009, 7:00 p.m. at SFU Harbour Centre, 515 West Hastings Street, Vancouver. Admission is free; however, reservations are required. Please e-mail cstudies@sfu.ca or call (778) 782-5100.
2 Core LUs
Shifting Gears II: Lectures on Transportation, Health and the Built Environment
The following sessions are part of a series sponsored by the Bombardier Foundation, BC Recreation and Parks Association, Simon Fraser University City Program, and the Active Transport Lab at the University of British Columbia. More lectures are planned - details to come.
Active Transportation in Portland
April 24, 7:00 p.m
Sam Adams, Mayor of PortlandAs the newly-elected mayor of Portland, Oregon, Sam Adams represents a city that encourages physical activity, especially with regard to transportation. In other words, a walking- and bike-friendly city, well served by transit, and that also addresses issues such as climate change and peak oil. As a Cascadian neighbour, he can speak to Portland’s special culture, its future plans, and the lessons that can be learned from the Portland experience. This event happens on Friday, April 24, 7:00 p.m. at the University of British Columbia Robson Square, 800 Robson Street, Vancouver. Reservations are required: call (778) 782- 5100 or e-mail cstudies@sfu.ca.
2 Non-core LUs
Cannon Design has earned local and international recognition for its innovation in planning and designing facilities in both the private and public sectors. These include sport, recreation, and wellness facilities completed by working with communities, colleges, universities and sports authorities. This exhibit will feature five of Cannon Design’s high performance sports and training facilities in British Columbia: the Richmond Olympic Oval, Pacific Institute for Sport Excellence at Camosun College, Peak 2 Peak Gondola Terminal Buildings, MultiSport Centre of Excellence, and the H2O Adventure and Fitness Centre in Kelowna.
Wednesday April 22 – Monday May 11, 2009
Opening Reception: Wednesday April 22, 2009, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
AIBC Gallery: #100 – 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver
Graduating students from Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s CIDA-accredited Bachelor of Interior Design program will be showcasing selected work from 11 comprehensive senior projects which have been developed from the programming phase through to design development. These adaptive reuse proposals encompass a wide variety of project types and include hospitality, residential, institutional, and health care. Each graduate has selected their project to address a specific societal need or opportunity and focuses upon sustainability. Graduates will be on hand to discuss their work at the Grad Showcase Opening Reception on Wednesday, April 22 (5:00 - 8:00 p.m.). For more information on Kwantlen's Bachelor of Applied Design in Interior Design program, please visit http://www.kwantlen.ca/design/interior_design.html
An opening reception will be held on Wednesday, April 22 from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. Advanced reservations are required. Please e-mail communications@aibc.ca to confirm your attendance.
As the latest partner in Club AIBC, Delta Vancouver Suites is offering preferred corporate rates for all AIBC registrants. Delta Vancouver Suites is a 225 all-suite property designed for the business traveller. In addition to exceptional rates, the hotel facilities include a fitness centre, meeting rooms, and many other amenities. Situated in the heart of the Heritage District in downtown Vancouver, Delta Vancouver Suites is located close to downtown offices and services.
Click here for more information.
The Metro Vancouver Chapter of the Royal Architectural Institute of British Columbia will hold its next meeting on Friday, May 1, 12:00 noon at the AIBC Office, 440 Cambie Street in Vancouver. All RAIC Metro Vancouver Chapter members are encouraged to attend, as are those interested in learning more about RAIC membership. Discussion will focus on student membership, interns, advocacy, and the Every Building Has an Architect campaign. This event is free of charge and lunch will be provided. Please r.s.v.p. to Wayne at astudio@direct.ca.
The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada – BC Chapter invites you to attend “aRchitecture: futuRe possibilities: our enviRonment, ouR Responsibility". This presentation will be moderated by Dr. Ray Cole MRAIC, and will feature speakers Teresa Coady FRAIC, Veronica Gillies MRAIC and Eva Matsuzaki FRAIC. Tickets are $25 for MRAICs, $35 for non-MRAICs, and $10 for students. Admission for MRAIC student associates is free. It takes place May 26, 2009 at the University of British Columbia Robson Square, 800 Robson Street in Vancouver. Seating is limited so register early. Please r.s.v.p. to bc@raic.org, and visit http://members.raic.org/courses.php for payment.
The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada has developed a new document to support the profession. A Guide to Determining Appropriate Fees for the Services of an Architect is designed for both clients and architects, and meant to assist in establishing fees across Canada. RAIC members are requested to review the document, test the proposed percentage-based fees using actual projects, and submit any suggestions to practiceadvisor@raic.org before May 1, 2009. The document will be revised accordingly, then published to coincide with this June’s Festival of Architecture and Forum in Montréal. To access the document, click here.
The Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes (CCBFC) invites AIBC members — as stakeholders in the national construction codes — to take part in a special public review to deal with a single subject: the relocation of building design requirements from the 2005 National Fire Code of Canada (NFC) to the 2005 National Building Code of Canada (NBC), along with the addition of appropriate cross-referencing between the two documents. No new technical changes are being proposed; the proposed changes are aimed at drawing a clear line between the roles of the NFC and the NBC. The national building, fire and plumbing codes developed by the CCBFC are model codes that provinces and territories can adopt as is or with modifications as part of their building, fire and plumbing regulations. The public review is one of the main steps in the process for developing these national code documents, providing a nation-wide forum where anyone can comment on the changes proposed. This public review will run from April 6 until May 29, 2009 on the National Codes web site (www.nationalcodes.ca).
Discover how Autodesk® 2010 software can turn your "what if" design scenarios into a reality. This information-packed event will address how to:
Participate in several informative sessions, including Take Design Further: Lynn Allen's AutoCAD 2010 Tips & Techniques, and learn how AutoCAD 2010 delivers groundbreaking new capabilities to tackle the most challenging design problems with ease. In addition, participants will see a range of solutions in action through various industry sessions, including design and intelligent modeling solutions from Autodesk® Inventor® software, Revit® software, AutoCAD® Map 3D software and Autodesk® 3ds Max® software. These presentations are ideally suited for architects, CAD managers, civil engineers, drafters, electrical controls engineers, government agencies, MEP engineers, mechanical engineers, product designers and design engineers. The Vancouver event takes place on Thursday, May 7. Registration is free, but space is limited. Go to www.autodesk.com/live
The Fresh Outlook Foundation's third annual Building SustainAble Communities took place February 24 - 26 in Kelowna. It brought together a broad spectrum of speakers with close to 450 community leaders from around the province to examine issues related to sustainability in British Columbia. Specific areas of focus included sustainable agriculture and sustainable business. Conference presentation handouts are now available for viewing at www.freshoutlookfoundation.org.
SRI Public Consultations
Throughout 2009, Metro Vancouver will be hosting public meetings this spring for lower mainland residents to discuss issues critical to the future of the region, specifically:
The focus of the Spring Series, which runs from April 1to May
27 in communities throughout the Lower Mainland, is on the Zero Waste
Challenge, Liquid Waste Management and the Regional Growth Strategy. Both
breakfast and evening sessions, along with regional forums, will be held.
For a detailed list of meeting dates, times and locations, click
here. Attend a session in your area, join the discussion and give
your ideas. To secure a seat, pre-registration is encouraged. If you would
like to provide feedback but are unable to attend a meeting, please send
your comments to icentre@metrovancouver.org.
The deadlines for feedback are: Zero Waste Challenge - May 1; Liquid Waste
Management - May 15; Regional Growth Strategy - May 22.,For more information
including copies of the draft plans, please visit www.metrovancouver.org
or call (604) 432-6200
Sustainability Community Breakfasts
The Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogues and Sustainability Community Breakfasts are outreach components of Metro Vancouver’s Sustainable Region Initiative (SRI). They involve a series of high-profile debates and discussions intended to help decision makers shape the future of the region by presenting a range of views and stimulating fresh thought on regional issues such as housing, industry, labour and immigration, drugs and crime, regional economy, transportation, energy and agriculture. For more information, visit: http://www.metrovancouver.org/region/dialogues/Pages/default.aspx.
Topic: Sustainable Tourism: Part Two of a Special Two-part Series
Wednesday, April 22
7:30 - 9:00 a.m.
British Columbia Institute of Technology Downtown Campus, 555 Seymour Street, VancouverThe B.C. tourism sector is striving to create a world-class sustainable tourist industry, and visitors are looking for “green” experiences. But what really constitutes sustainable tourism and how do we get there? This two-part series looks at the evolution of sustainable tourism and exciting initiatives underway in B.C. Featured presenters: John Willow, Director - Tourism Development Branch, Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Arts; and Dr. Peter Williams, Director - Centre for Tourism Policy & Research, Simon Fraser University.
To register, go to http://www.metrovancouver.org/region/breakfasts/Pages/registration.aspx.
The Nanaimo Art Gallery is pleased to host “Building Green: A B.C. Showcase”. This exhibition, on loan from the Surrey Art Gallery) features 10 projects that depict achievements - past, present and future - in sustainability combined with architectural excellence. It also showcases British Columbia’s place amongst world leaders in the sustainable architecture movement, with building projects ranging from single-family homes and multi-family developments to large-scale commercial and public projects. The show runs from April 2 – 17, 2009 at the downtown location of the Nanaimo Art Gallery (150 Commercial Street).
The Homeowners Protection Office invites you to attend its upcoming “Building Smart” workshop. Building Smart #11: Airtightness in Residential Construction will address changes in homeowner expectations relating to energy efficiency and the environment, and that will influence the houses are designed and built. Residential buildings are complex structures that integrate many building systems to produce a safe and comfortable space, and the air barrier is one of the most complex of these building systems. This seminar will provide information on air barriers, the impact of airtightness on building performance, and its role in comfort, air quality and energy usage. Presenter Murray Frank of Constructive Home Solutions Inc. is an industry expert who is also a college instructor in building science. His 2.5 hour presentation, which will include step-by-step construction details in wood frame and other methods of construction, will be of interest to builders, designers and building professionals in general. Each participant will receive a presentation guide and a certificate of completion. Workshops are scheduled for:
April 6 Prince George
May 11 Victoria
April 7 Fort St. John
May 12 Langford
April 15 Burnaby
May 13 Vancouver
April 20 Salt Spring Island
May 14 Terrace
April 21 Nanaimo
May 19 Kelowna
April 22 Courtenay
May 20 Kamloops
April 23 Powell River
May 21 Surrey
April 27 Abbotsford
May 25 Cranbrook
April 28 Whistler
May 26 Castlegar
April 29 Sechelt
May 27 Penticton
Professional Services Management Association Vancouver invites you to attend an upcoming seminar on public/private partnerships. This presentation will examine how P3s can be a successful tool in delivering much-needed public infrastructure. Presenter Tom Simpson of Partnerships BC will provide an update on P3s in British Columbia, including upcoming projects, the characteristics of successful P3 projects, and the role of architects and engineers in P3s. It takes place on April 16 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Sutton Place Hotel, 845 Burrard Street in Vancouver. The cost is $60. Space is limited so you are encouraged to register early by contacting Shail Mahanti at (604) 687-1800.
The recent incursion of the Ontario provincial government into regulatory bodies raises questions about Canadian bodies’ right to self-regulate. Are these incursions a potential threat to this right? How can bodies preserve self-regulation while complying with government mandates? The Professional Associations Research Network (PARN), an international network of professional bodies, is hosting a workshop in Toronto on Tuesday June 23, 2009. It will include presentations and discussion that will focus on how regulatory colleges can preserve self-regulation, and the perceived threats to self-regulation. It will also look at self-regulation from an international perspective with discussion of preliminary results from the Professional Associations Research Network (PARN) Professional Bodies International Benchmark Survey. The second part of the program will raise the issues of volunteer management, understanding volunteers and maximizing volunteer contributions. Topic areas will include: using volunteers as “experts” and for specific projects or task forces; the most effective induction and training for volunteers; and the issues in relations between volunteers and staff. Speakers include:
For detailed information and to register, go to http://clients.enablermail.com/el/files/54/toronto%20program%20design%202.pdf
The B.C. Society of Landscape Architects is proud to sponsor Dr. Jim Stephenson's presentation of Al Gore's Academy Award winning documentary, "An Inconvenient Truth". Dr. Stephenson has expanded his original presentation to address concerns of the allied design professionals as well as local governments in addressing the impact of global warming on our communities. Alternative solutions for storm water management, sewage treatment, energy conservation, and long range planning goals are among the topics discussed. A question period will follow the presentation. Whether you are concerned about environmental issues as a homeowner, a professional in your local community, or a member of the global community, this presentation will expand your knowledge base and offer alternative solutions to the ongoing dilemma of limited resources in a finite world. It takes place Saturday, April 4, 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. at the Sutton Place Hotel, 845 Burrard Street, Vancouver. For more details please visit http://www.bcsla.org/pdf.htm/CE%20Inconvenient%20PosterForm(revMar4).pdf.
The annual symposium of the British Columbia Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA) will take place on May 27 – 29, 2009, at the Telus Conference Centre in Whistler, B.C. In keeping with the BCRPA’s mandate of promoting sustainability and healthy lifestyles, this year’s theme is “Strength in CommUNITY”. The symposium will feature educational sessions, speaker presentations, tradeshow opportunities, and social events. The annual conference draws more than 500 delegates whose professional backgrounds include government officials, city planners, program directors, and recreation enthusiasts. Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are still available. Please visit www.bcrpa.bc.ca for more details or to register.
The 2009 BC Land Summit takes place May 20-22, 2009, in Whistler. It also serves at the annual conference for the British Columbia Lnadscape Architects Association. With an overall theme of A Better Future: Adapting to Change, this year’s event features four broad sub-themes: Changing Place & Space; Changing Environments; A World of Change; and Change in Motion. There will be four plenary sessions, four roundtables, nearly a dozen mobile workshop tours, and more than 60 concurrent sessions. Featured speakers include environmental activist Robert Kennedy, Jr., urban design and public space consultant Sherry Kafka Wagner, and former British Columbia Supreme Court Justice Thomas Berger, OC, QC, OBC. For detailed program information and to register, go to http://www.bclandsummit.com
AIBC registrants are invited to sign up for the Executing Social Media Masterclass 2009, which will be offered in both Vancouver (May 4-5) and Victoria (May 7-8). As today's communication landscape continues to morph, this unique series of social media courses will focus on how organizations can leverage social media to achieve business goals. Learn more about new and innovative social media and eCommunication tools, techniques, and technologies, including their impact on traditional advertising and marketing, the mainstream media, and employee communications. Discover how to utilize social media with employees, customers, colleagues and competitors to sell services, build relationships, engage employees, and strengthen your brand. These informal, intimate and highly interactive classes offer a valuable opportunity to hear perspectives, share experiences, and identify best practices. For more information or to register, call (416) 238-2751. Click here to download the programme and registration form.
The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, Ordre des architectes du Québec and Association of Architects in Private Practice of Quebec are pleased to announce the launch of the website for the 2009 Festival of Architecture and Forum, June 17-20 in Montreal. The theme of this year’s festival is “Vision and Commitment,” acknowledging the unique and significant contribution the profession makes to solving the environmental and economic problems faced in this century. For a sneak peak at the keynote speakers, events, and other conference-related opportunities prior to registration in March, visit the site at http://festival2009.raic.org/index_e.htm.
The IDSWest web site (www.idswest.com)
is now live and will be constantly updated with features, speakers, design
news and happenings from a West Coast perspective. Planning is well underway
for the event, which takes place September 17 - 20, 2009 at the Vancouver
Convention & Exhibition Centre. The 2009 show will introduce a variety
of space concepts and feature areas focusing on pushing the boundaries
of local and international design and architecture. Special sections include:
Designers on the Block – dedicated space for up-and-coming designers, providing an opportunity to get their feet wet by displaying in small, pre-built structures.
Stories Behind Design – showcasing the lesser known stories that help shape many of the designs on display.
Exhibition space at this prestigious trade show is also available.
Contact Jason Heard (jheard@mmart.com) to secure your preferred location and take advantage of promotional benefits.
Recommendations are now being accepted for the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. This awards program, established in 1977 by His Highness the Aga Khan, recognizes architectural excellence that encompass contemporary design, social housing, community improvement and development, restoration, re-use, and area conservation, as well as landscaping and environmental issues. The award embraces all types of building projects that affect today’s environments, ranging from modest small-scale interventions to major complexes and urban or regional design. Recommendations for nomination may include initiatives for housing, community and neighbourhood projects, and those that focus on urban areas and issues. Projects may also address infrastructure, transportation, industry, offices and commercial facilities, and educational and health facilities. Eligible projects must be designed for or used by Muslim communities, in part or in whole, wherever they are located. Submissions are especially encouraged in three under-represented categories: rural development, industry and places of work, and public spaces (small and large). This award cycle will focus on projects completed during the six-year period from 2003 through 2008. Eligible projects must have been completed and in use for at least one full year between January 1, 2003 and December 31, 2008. Projects that are not yet fully completed – such as urban design, area conservation, and community upgrading schemes – are also eligible so long as a tangible portion has been completed and the potential success of the project can be demonstrated.” Architects and other project personnel may submit their own projects for consideration. This is an international program; individuals everywhere are encouraged to submit recommendations. For detailed information, visit http://www.akdn.org/akaa.asp.
A top-flight jury is in place for the 2009 SAB Canadian Green Building Awards, the second annual celebration of Canadian green design. This awards program, sponsored by Sustainable Architecture & Building Magazine (SABMag), recognizes excellence in the design and execution of Canadian residential and non-residential buildings of all types, including new construction, renovations and interior design projects. Winning projects are chosen based on criteria of sustainable design, architectural excellence and technical innovation. This year’s three-person jury includes Vivian Manasc, Manasc Isaac Architects (Edmonton); Andre Perrotte, Saucier + Perrotte Architectes (Montreal); and Dermot J. Sweeny, Sweeny Sterling Finlayson &Co Architects Inc. (Toronto). Eligible projects must have been completed between January 1, 2005 and February 29, 2009. The deadline for submissions is April 24, with judging on May 15. Full details can be found on the SABMag web site: http://sabmagazine.com/sab-awards.html. Winning projects will be published in SABMag and online, and presented in education seminars for design and construction professionals. For more information, contact SABMag Publisher Don Griffith by e-mail (dgriffith@janam.net) or phone (1-800-520-6281, ext. 304).
The Toronto Society of Architects, in association with the Canada Green Building Council – Greater Toronto Chapter (CaGBC-GTC) and the Design Industry Advisory Committee (DIAC), invites submissions for its 2009 Green Poster Design Competition. The purpose of the competition is to produce an image that draws attention to the value of green design, and that illustrates how design can enhance economic, social, and ecological sustainability. The competition is open to everyone, including students and professional artists. Participants must register by May 1, 2009, and submissions (electronic only) are due by May 15, 2009. Posters must be A1 size (594 x 841 mm / 23.4 x 33.1 inches), and designs may use any form of photography, illustration, collage, or typography, provided no copyrights are violated in the design. Cash prizes will be awarded to the three top winners. Judging is scheduled for May 22, 2009. For full details, including a copy of the competition brief, visit the TSA website at http://www.torontosocietyofarchitects.ca/?q=node/94.
By Will Henley, BD/Building Design
March 31, 2009
Olympic Stadium designer HOK Sport has rebranded itself as Populous. The firm, which employs around 500 staff around the world, underwent a management buy-out from parent company HOK Group last December, led by senior principal Rod Sheard among others. Sheard said: “What we do best is design buildings that draw people together so Populous is the perfect name to reflect our business.” More ...
North Carolina architect suggests a design scorecard similar to LEED could advance social and economic agendas
Bryan Bell wants architects to respond to a higher calling. “As architects, you are agents of positive change,” he told a group of Portland design professionals Friday. The North Carolina architect and author is a proponent of a new initiative called SEED, which stands for Social, Economic and Environmental Design. He called on local designers to view the built environment as a social force. “Design can play a role in addressing the social and economic issues we face today,” said Bell, whose recent book is titled “Expanding Architecture: Design as Activism”. More …
Canadian Architect
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Vancouver architect Tony Robins has launched his own 20,000-square-foot factory to produce the buildings he designs. Centering the construction process within a factory, Preform Construction – the company Robins has formed with partners Marc Isaac and Ryan Spong – is making sound logistic, economic, and green sense. The latest four large houses that Robins has designed are on island properties where it can cost at least 50% more to build due to additional costs such as accommodating trades in hotels, and shipping concrete on ferries, among other things. More …
Your next home may come from a web site, not a design studio.
By Michael Cannell, Fast Company
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Last month houseplans.com, a four-year-old Web site that sells off-the-rack blueprints for homes, acquired the rights to the plans for staff housing at Sea Ranch, an environmentally sensitive development on a rugged stretch of coast 100 miles north of San Francisco. The shed-like wood-frame homes for staff were designed in the late-1980s by William Turnbull, a San Francisco architect. Their modesty is in keeping with the Sea Ranch aesthetic, which gained notice 40 years ago as an unassuming style of modern architecture that defers to the landscape, instead of dominating it. The weathered homes scattered along the redwood clearings and rocky cliffs could almost pass as barns and rural outbuildings. More …
Architectural Institute of British Columbia
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