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December 10, 2010
In Passing: Richard Archambault
Retired Architect Richard (Dick) Archambault FRAIC RCA died peacefully on Tuesday, November 23 at the age of 79. Richard was born in Vancouver, and received his Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of British Columbia in 1955. In 1959 he joined the AIBC, later serving on AIBC Council from 1968 to 1975 including time as treasurer and a two-year term as president. Together with Barry Downs MAIBC, he was a founding partner of the reputable Downs/Archambault Architects. He was a former member of the AIBC’s Professional Conduct Committee, also served on various municipal councils during his professional career, including the Gastown Heritage Advisory Committee. He was also an active member of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada. In 1991, Richard was awarded a Special Certificate of Recognition by the AIBC for service to the institute and the profession. He retired from practice in 2002. Aside from work, Richard was passionate about the arts and active in the local arts community. He is survived by Patricia, his wife of 51 years; brother Phillip; daughters Michelle (David) and Marie (Paul,); and youngest son Adrian. He is predeceased by son Noel. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged to the Alzheimer's Society of BC, the Noel Archambault Memorial Endowment Fund (Simon Fraser University School for the Contemporary Arts) or the charity of one’s choice.
2011 Fee Increase
Dear Members and Associates,
As part of its budgeting process for the coming year, AIBC Council has approved increases to fees, fines and charges for all categories of registrant. This decision, supported by both the Financial Health Task Force and the Governance Task Force, is in keeping with council’s cautious and conservative approach to budgeting while allowing for the necessary capital planning...(continue reading)
2010 Summer Survey
The results of the AIBC Summer Survey are now available. Click here.
In Passing: Ron Howard
Previously registered member Ron Howard passed away on Wednesday, November 24 at the age of 77 after a lengthy battle with cancer.
Ron was born and raised in Vancouver. He graduated from the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture In 1957 and joined the AIBC in 1960, starting up his own firm shortly after. Building on his early success, he established Howard Yano Architects, later to become Howard Bingham Hill. Excelling in schools, community centres and other public institutions, Ron’s lasting contributions to the local cityscape include Langara College, Emily Carr College of Art + Design, and Kitsilano Pool. He spent time as an AIBC representative to the Ministry of Education’s Facilities Task Force. An avid skier, he also designed the Rendezvous Lodge, day skier lodge and Monk’s Grill at Blackcomb. Ron was also instrumental in the development of the AIBC’s Tariff of Fees. He retired from practice in 2000.
Predeceased by his wife Barbara, he is survived by son Geoff (Marie Claire), daughter Lisa (Jamie), and son Tim (Julie). A more comprehensive summary of Ron’s life is available through the Bingham + Hill architects web site (click here).
Pram In The Hall
Pram in the Hall is a series of interviews with some individuals who are raising families while practicing as design professionals. The interviews are not necessarily intended to be messages of encouragement or cautionary tales, but a means of raising important issues through a set of candid conversations.
The fourth and final installment of testimonials for the Pram In The Hall is now online. Click here.
Limitation Act Reform
The AIBC was among select organizations invited recently to respond to the provincial government’s White Paper on Limitation Act Reform. The institute had provided input in the initial stages of the reform process as well, dating back to 2006. The resulting draft’s numerous references to the AIBC’s earlier submissions are encouraging, indicating that advice from profession, along with other industry partners and participants from other sectors, was both heard and heeded. While the document lays out a number of questions (to which the institute has responded), its fundamental approach is consistent with the express views of the AIBC – the objective being legislative reform resulting in a system that is fair, equitable and in the public interest. This entails changing not only the basic and ultimate limitation periods, but also the “trigger” mechanism for those periods. Appreciation goes out to the following AIBC Council representatives, members and staff who contributed to the AIBC response: Chip Barrett MAIBC; Jerome Marburg LLB (Deputy Executive Director & General Counsel); Owen Pawson LLB (LG Appointee to Council); Simon Richards MAIBC; and Barry Weih MAIBC (AIBC Council). To view the White Paper on Limitation Act Reform, visit www.ag.gov.bc.ca/legislation/index.htm. To see the AIBC response, click here.
Michael Ernest MAIBC
Executive Director
Save the Date:
2011 AIBC / Architecture Canada | RAIC Conference & Festival of Architecture
May 24 – 27, 2011
Vancouver Convention Centre
Save the date for the 2011 AIBC Annual Conference, being held in conjunction with the annual Architecture Canada | RAIC Festival of Architecture. Over four days, this event will bring together architects and allied professionals from around the province and across the country. The conference / festival theme, Architecture on the Edge, acknowledges the many ways in which west coast architects continue to push the boundaries in such areas as form and design, sustainability, community development and social awareness. Further information will be posted shortly; please check back regularly: www.aibc.ca. Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are also available. To learn more, please call (604) 683-8588 ext 331.
Bulletin 61 (Second Edition): Seal of an Architect
The August 2010 revision to AIBC Bulletin 61 is now published and in effect (click here). This substantive revision provides comprehensive, practical advice and interpretation regarding the use of the architect’s seal, including specifying which instruments of service must be sealed, such as development permit drawings. The revision replaces the first (1994) edition of AIBC Bulletin 61 and Directors Chair 004 - An Architect’s Seal: Its Care & Control. The architect’s seal is a solemn confirmation and representation to the public that the architect who applied it not only takes responsibility for the document, but that the document was prepared by that architect under his/her direct supervision and control. The use of the seal is governed by the Architects Act, as supplemented by AIBC Bylaw and AIBC Council rulings found in the Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. For information and advice on the electronic seal option, consult AIBC Bulletin 60: Signature, Seal and Delivery of Electronic Documents. Feedback and questions are welcome to the attention of Professional Conduct Coordinator Gayle Roberts at groberts@aibc.ca.
Fine-tuning Your Practice: The Practice Consultation Service Answered your Questions at This Year’s Annual Conference
The AIBC Practice Consultation Service has proven to be a great success, providing feedback to firms of all ages and size with respect to their standard office practices and addressing questions relating to a variety of firm management topics. In kind, participating firms have provided their own valuable reflections on the process itself. The PCS has afforded them with a unique opportunity to step back and examine “the bigger picture”, and to ask more detailed questions relating to everyday practice management concerns.
At this year’s AIBC Annual Conference, the Practice Consultation Service Committee addressed a number of these questions in an open forum that promoted dialogue between Practice Consultants and fellow architects. Roundtable discussions offered the opportunity for attendees to share their own knowledge of design firm management relating to Digital Media & Information Management; Management of Projects (Process & Resources); and RFPs and Client/Consultant Agreements.
The feedback from the sessions has been overwhelmingly positive, with members citing it as an excellent opportunity to engage consultants directly as well as listen to the experiences of other fellow colleagues.
As a useful introduction to some of the topics that may be covered during a practice consultation, please take a look at the Practice Self-Assessment Rating Form available for download on the AIBC web site:
http://aibc.ca/member_resources/practice/pdf/4.1_PCS_PSARF.pdf
To learn more about the PCS or to schedule a practice consultation, please contact Director of Professional Services Maura Gatensby MAIBC by phone (604-683-8588; ext. 334) or e-mail (mgatensby@aibc.ca).
2011 AIBC PD Course Schedule
The 2011 AIBC Course Schedule is now online. Click here.
Building Envelope Education Program Course Registration
For those registrants wishing to complete the AIBC’s Building Envelope Education Program (BEEP), now is your chance. Follow the link http://www.aibc.ca/member_resources/professional_dev/index.html and check out the course descriptions and scheduled dates. You can also access it from the AIBC home page. Click on "Course Registration" under Quick Links and register online. These courses are only offered once a year, so don’t miss out.
BEEP Module I:
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 (604) 683-8588, extension 312.
18 Core LUs
Cascadia Green Building Council
High Performance Commercial Office and Institutional Buildings
Cascadia Green Building Council is pleased to offer this new full-day workshop designed for architects, engineers, owners, developers, designers and builders involved in high-performance commercial office and institutional buildings in British Columbia. This exciting workshop, being held jointly with the BC Hydro Powersmart New Construction Program, is scheduled for Thursday, February 17, 2011, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Segal Graduate School of Business, 500 Granville Street, Vancouver. For complete details or to register, please visit http://cascadiagbc.org/events/2011/feb/workshop-design-high-performane-commercial-buildings.
7 Core LUs
Living Future 2011 –n Our Children’s Cities: Visualizing a Restorative Civilization
The Cascadia Region Green Building Council is hosting its fifth annual unconference. Living Future 2011 takes place April 27- 29, 2011 at the Sheraton Wall Centre in Vancouver. This forum brings together leading minds in the green building movement in search of solutions to the most daunting global issues of our time. Out-of-the-ordinary learning and networking formats provide innovative design strategies, cutting-edge technical information, and the inspiration needed to achieve significant progress toward a truly living future. For program details and to register, please visit http://cascadiagbc.org/living-future/11. Early bird registration ends December 31.
Core and Non-core LUs Available
Heritage Vancouver
An Evening of Celebration at Simon Fraser University’s Segal Graduate School of Business: A Vancouver Heritage Success Story
Simon Fraser University and the Heritage Vancouver Society invite you to celebrate the restoration of the former Merchants Bank Building (1915), a remarkable early 20th Century temple bank building that has been sensitively restored to its former elegance under the direction of Vancouver ’s Paul Merrick MAIBC. SFU President Andrew Petter, Heritage Vancouver President Donald Luxton and SFU Architect Lee Gavel MAIBC will be part of the opening celebrations. There will also be an opportunity to go behind the scenes with Luxton, Merrick and Mitch Sakumoto of Merrick Architecture to discover the ideas that shaped this splendid restoration along with the challenges faced. Learn first-hand why this award-winning restoration has been designated a City of Vancouver heritage site. The date is Wednesday, January 19, 2011, 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. at 500 Granville Street Tickets are $100 (with proceeds going to Heritage Vancouver), wine and hors d’oeuvres included. Payment may be made online (www.heritagevancouver.org/payments.html) or by cheque payable to Heritage Vancouver Society and mailed to Heritage Vancouver, PO Box 3336, Main Post Office, Vancouver, BC, V6B 3Y3. For those paying by mail, please contact Heritage Vancouver at info@heritagevancouver.org to confirm you spot.
2 Core LUs
Construction Specifications Canada Vancouver Chapter
O Tannenbaum Breakfast Meeting and Mini Trade Show
Seminar: BC’s Wood First Legislation
CSC – Vancouver Chapter invites you to its December breakfast meeting and mini trade show. Presenters Brian Hawrysh, CEO of BC Wood, and Werner Hofstatter of Wood Enterprise Coalition will examine BC’s Wood First Act, introduced by the provincial government in October 2009 with the purpose of putting wood at the top of people’s mind for every construction project. The speakers will explain the rationale and objectives of the Wood First Act, provide an update on the environmental, socio-economic and project benefits of using wood, and discuss how the partners in the newly-formed Wood Enterprise Coalition (WEC) can be an invaluable resource. The seminar will be followed by a mini trade show. It all takes place Thursday, December 16, 7:00 – 9:30 A.M. at the Sandman Hotel, 180 West Georgia Street, Vancouver. The cost is $48 ($32 for pre-registered CSC members and association executive directors). Register online at www.csc-vancouver.ca or by clicking here.
1 Core LU
Association of Professional Engineers & Geoscientists of BC
On Tuesday, December 14, 2010 the Association of Professional Engineers & Geoscientists of BC and the Architectural Institute of British Columbia will jointly host a seminar examining key impacts resulting from recent revisions to the Letters of Assurance (LOA) in the BC Building Code (BCBC). Effective September 1, 2010, the LOA were amended by Ministerial Order M-214. These new LOA, including all relevant revisions to the BCBC, apply to all projects involving a building permit application submitted on or after September 1, 2010.
Seminar Instructors:
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Maura Gatensby, MAIBC, Director of Professional Services - Architectural Institute of British Columbia
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David Miachika, LLB, P.Eng., Partner - Borden Ladner Gervais LLP (BLG)
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Peter R. Mitchell, P.Eng., Director, Professional Standards & Development - Association of Professional Engineers & Geoscientists of BC
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Bob Thompson, Senior Codes Administrator, Building & Safety Standards Policy & Research Division - Ministry of Housing & Social Development
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Barry Thorson, P.Eng, C.P., B.R. Thorson Consulting Ltd.
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Jim Weber, Manager of Building Bylaws and Licensing - City of Port Moody
Cost:
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APEGBC and AIBC members (until November 30, 2010): $239.00 + HST = $267.68
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APEGBC and AIBC members (after November 30, 2010): $299.00 + HST = $334.88
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Non-members: $299.00 + HST = $334.88
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Member Advantage Program for Students (MAPS) and AIBC Intern Architects and
Architectural Students: $149.50 + HST = $167.44
Note: The event will begin with registration and hot breakfast (8:00 - 8:30 a.m.) followed by the seminar itself (8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.). It will take place at Hyatt Regency Vancouver (655 Burrard Street) and via webcast. To register, go to www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/loa2.html. For more information, click here or call (604) 430-8035.
4 Core LUs
Kwantlen Polytechnic University
Drafting / CADD Technologies - Professional Upgrading and Training
AutoCAD® Revit Architecture®
This course offers customized training for professionals in CAD-related professions. Using up-to-date online training tutorials, professionals can work at their own pace to complete the material for each level of software training. The instructor will work individually with course registrants to explain complex concepts, trouble shoot problems, and assess/give feedback and direction. Professionals are invited to bring in samples of the type of drawings they would like to create, and the instructor will assist in obtaining a satisfactory result. Upon mastery of course material, A Recognition of Achievement will be awarded and the course will be added to each participant's Kwantlen transcript. Progress and courses completed will vary by individual. Training is purchased in 12-week (36-hour) blocks for $495 + HST per block. The cost of online training material is $100 + HST per year (includes all Autodesk® software). It takes place January through June 2011 at the Kwantlen Cloverdale Campus. Courses are held Tuesdays from 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. Online distance training can be provided in appropriate situations. For more information, please visit http://www.kwantlen.ca/trades/cadd/upgrading-training or contact CADD Department Chair Joanne Massey by email: joanne.massey@kwantlen.ca or phone: (604) 598-6123.
36 Core LUs
Vancouver Heritage Foundation
Old School: Courses for Building Conservation
This fall, the Vancouver Heritage Foundation presents an educational series that explores the strong connection between working with existing buildings and being “green”. These courses explore how repairing, re-using and recycling buildings and their materials can be the least invasive strategies in relation to environmental impact. Participants will also learn what related resources are available in B.C. For more information including a course listings, dates and fees please visit http://www.vancouverheritagefoundation.org/oldschool.html.
Core LUs Available
IMAGINiT Technologies
Revit Architecture 2011 BIM Management
Revit Architecture is a powerful Building Information Modeling (BIM) program
that supports the ability to coordinate, update, and share design data
with team members throughout the design, construction, and management
phases. The objective of the Revit Architecture 2011 BIM Management course
is to enable students who have worked with Revit to expand their knowledge
in setting up office standards. Specific topics include setting up templates
with annotation styles, preset views, sheets and schedules, as well as
custom element types and families. By creating standard templates and
custom elements, a key component in the BIM process is to establish a
company foundation for different types of projects. Doing so ensures
that new projects flow smoothly and efficiently. The length of this training
session is one day. Please contact Kam Seignarack of IMAGINiT Technologies
for more information at 604-207-2114 or by e-mail kseignarack@rand.com.
6.5 Core LUs
Sustainable Design: Ecotect Analysis Fundamentals (Web-based Workshop)
Ecotect Analysis software is a comprehensive concept-to-detail sustainable
design analysis tool, providing a wide range of simulation and analysis
functionality. Users can interact with powerful 3D feedback to explore
factors such as solar energy, shadows and reflections, and day lighting.
Using Autodesk Ecotect Analysis, architects and designers can gain better
insight into building performance early in the process, helping to achieve
more sustainable designs, faster time to market, and lower project costs.
For more information or to register, please contact Kam Seignarack by e-mail
(kam.seignarack@rand.com) or phone (604-207-2114).
16 Core LUs
AEC Daily Online Learning
AEC Daily offers free online courses worth core learning units. For a list of offerings, please visit their online learning centre at http://www.aecdaily.com/en/236763?list=4.
Extended! BCIT Architectural Science Degree
2010 Graduating Projects
Now until December 22, 2010
AIBC Gallery: #100 – 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver
Make plans to attend the annual grad show for the British Columbia Institute of Technology’s Bachelor of Technology in Architectural Science program. This four-year baccalaureate degree program provides the architectural and engineering communities with graduates while also allowing students to ladder to a professional degree such as a Master of Architecture. This year’s graduating projects include Aural SFU (a music school); Centre for Ceramics; and a Community College for White Rock. For further information about the exhibit or program, contact Program Head Peter Levar MAIBC MRAIC at plevar@bcit.ca.
Whistler Blackcomb: Peak 2 Peak Alpine Experience
Save $5 per person on your Whistler PEAK 2 PEAK Alpine Experience. The journey between the two Mountains provides a 360-degree window into Whistler Blackcomb’s alpine environment, its surrounding peaks, changing seasons and wildlife habitat. To learn more about this, and other Club AIBC offers, visit: http://www.aibc.intrd.com/index.php.
New CCDC Construction Management Contracts
The new CCDC Construction Management Contracts are now available in electronic format. Ordering information can be found here.
CCDC 5A – 2010 Construction Management Contract – For Services
Standard contract between owner and construction manager for which the work is to be performed by trade contractors. The construction manager acts as a limited agent of the owner providing advisory services and administering and overseeing the contracts between the owner and trade contractors. CCDC 5A replaces Canadian Construction Association (CCA) standard contract document 5 – 1998.
CCDC 5B – 2010 Construction Management Contract – For Services and Construction
Standard contract between owner and construction manager whereby the construction manager provides pre-construction advisory services to the owner and then undertakes actual construction. In that case, the construction manager engages trade contractors as subcontractors and is responsible for their performance. At the outset, the work is performed on an actual-cost basis, plus a percentage or fixed fee which is applied to actual costs. The parties may agree to exercise the following options: Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP), GMP Plus Percentage Cost Savings, and conversion into a Stipulated Price Contract.
CCDC 17 – 2010 Stipulated Price Contract for Trade Contractors on Construction Management Projects
Standard contract form between owner and trade contractor to perform the work for a single, pre-determined fixed price. It is a companion document for use where the project is performed under the CCDC 5A Construction Management method of contracting. CCDC 17 replaces CCA 17 - 1996.
AIA Home Design Trends Survey
Results from the American Institute of Architects’ Home Design Trends Survey for the third quarter of 2010 reflect a new emphasis on multigenerational homes in light of the slowed housing market throughout most of the United States. Emphasis has shifted from large-scale developments to infill projects that address transportation and commercial needs. For a more detailed analysis of the survey by AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker Hon. AIA, click here.
BC Building Code Amendment: Cementitious Materials
The British Columbia Building Code has been amended to update the CAN/CSA - A3001 “Cementitious Materials for Use in Concrete” information to the 2008 edition. This standard will now include a new class of cement: Portland-Limestone Cement (PLC). While concrete using PLC will have similar strength and durability characteristics to those achieved with existing cements, the PLC manufacturing process creates approximately 10% less greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional cement manufacturing process. The code now permits, but does not require, the use of PLC. Note: updating to the 2009 edition of CSA A23.1 ”Concrete Materials and Methods of Concrete Construction Standard” is a consequential amendment resulting from the updating of CAN/CSA – A3001. The new amendment came into effect November 25, 2010. To access it, click here for a PDF version, or visit the BC Codes Errata and Revisions web page at http://www.bccodes.ca/errata_revisions.htm. For those with online versions of the BC Building Codes, this amendment will be consolidated and uploaded by early next week. For CD customers, the upload will automatically install after December 8. Please ensure your computer is connected to the Internet. For questions or concerns, contact BC Codes Customer Service at 1-800-663-6150.
Public Review for the 2011 BC Building Code
AIBC registrants are invited to participate in the public review for the 2011 BC Building Code. (Note: the AIBC will be providing a formal response) This public review focuses on recommended variations from the model 2010 National Building Code. The purpose of this public review is to gather feedback on 14 variations that are being recommended by the Building and Safety Standards Branch of the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General. The feedback you provide will be considered in the development of the 2011 BC Building Code expected to take effect in the fall of 2011. The opportunity to participate in the public review will continue until December 21, 2010. The online public review is hosted through the Building and Safety Standards Branch web site: http://www.housing.gov.bc.ca/building/consultation/code_variations/index.html. If you have any questions, please contact Codes Administrator Jarrett Hutchinson at telephone (250) 356-8163 or email codequestion@gov.bc.ca.
Enhanced Language Training for Architects
The Immigrant Services Society of British Columbia has introduced a new pilot program to support foreign-trained architects. Enhanced Language Training for Architects will help participants Improve their working language levels, be better prepared to work without communication and cultural problems, and gain confidence in undertaking complex tasks and management positions. This course is ideally suited for foreign-trained architects with a Canadian Language Benchmark level no lower than 6, as well as landed immigrants, permanent residents and Canadian citizens who required improved language skills for their profession. Canadian Language Benchmark levels can be determined through testing offered by ISSofBC. Continuous intake for this program runs from January 17 to April 11, 2011, and participants can choose sessions ranging from four to 17 weeks. Morning, afternoon and evening classes are available on both part-time and full-time schedules. Note: there is no course fee, and space is limited. For more information, contact Project Coordinator Camilla Dietrich (Phone: (604) 684-2561 ext. 1182; e-mail: camilla.dietrich@issbc.org) or Registrar Kristin Chow (phone: (604) 684-2561 ext. 1188; e-mail: kristin.chow@issbc.org), or go online to www.issbc.org.
Revised Energy Efficiency Act
New Retrofit Standards for Commercial, Industrial, Institutional and Residential Buildings
As of January 1, 2011, province's the Energy Efficiency Act will regulate commercial, industrial, institutional and residential buildings (five storeys and higher or greater than 600 metres squared). The regulation will cover the retrofit of existing buildings which do not undertake ASHRAE compliance (e.g. building envelop renovation of mid-rise condominium buildings). New buildings that undertake ASHRAE 90.1 compliance as covered by the British Columbia Building Code will be exempt. The amended regulations can be found online at http://www.bclaws.ca/EPLibraries/bclaws_new/document/ID/freeside/10_389_93.
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BC Building Code: Important Changes to Letters of Assurance
The BC Building Code 2006 has been amended to clarify the roles and accountabilities of registered professionals who sign letters of assurance. These changes, referred to as Revision 10, are effective September 1, 2010. Members are strongly advised to carefully review these code changes, the newly revised Guide to Letters of Assurance in the BC Building Code 2006 and the AIBC's newly-issued Practice Note 16: Professional Design and Field Review by Supporting Registered Professionals before issuing any letters of assurance. Maura Gatensby MAIBC |
NOTE: A new dynamic PDF of AIBC Practice Note 16 is now available on the AIBC web site. Click here. |
IDC/IIDA Leaders Breakfast
You are invited to attend the 2011 IDC/IIDA Leaders Breakfast sponsored by Interior Designers of Canada and the International Interior Design Association. This event marks Vancouver’s first ever participation in this longstanding international speaker series. Taking place in conjunction with Buildex Vancouver 2011, the second of eight stops on the 2011 breakfast series is expected to attract a full house of designers, architects, media, government representatives, and other influential business leaders. Former NHL star and Olympian Trevor Linden will speaking on leadership and community, while IDIBC President Robert Ledingham of Vancouver’s Ledingham Design Consultants will receive the 2011 Leaders Award n recognition of exemplary leadership in the profession of interior design. It happens Thursday, February 24, 8:00 – 10:00 a.m. at the Vancouver Convention Centre. For additional information and tickets, visit idcanada.org or call 1-800-334-1180.
Vancouver Heritage Awards
Submissions are invited for the City of Vancouver’s 2011 Heritage Awards, which acknowledge special accomplishments, projects and efforts that have furthered the goal of heritage conservation in the city. This year marks the 25th Anniversary of the city's Heritage Conservation Program. Nominations will be accepted for:
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restoration, rehabilitation, adaptive re-use or continued maintenance of a heritage building or structure, a significant interior of a heritage building, or characteristic features of a heritage building or structure;
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use of innovative engineering techniques or restoration/conservation methods in upgrading a heritage building or structure which may include seismic upgrading; preservation of a heritage landscape or other natural feature; heritage advocacy of a group or individual in the preservation of a heritage site or increasing public awareness of heritage issues;
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publication, education program, exhibit, or activity that promotes heritage conservation;
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and efforts in community or neighbourhood revitalization tied to heritage conservation or awareness.
Eligible projects must have been completed within the last six years, and those that have previously received a City of Vancouver Heritage Award are not eligible. The deadline for nominations is January 14, 2011. For detailed information and nomination forms, visit http://vancouver.ca/commsvcs/planning/heritage/awards/awardsinformation.htm.
3rd International Holcim Awards
Entries are now being accepted for the 3rd International Holcim Awards. This competition, organized by the Holcim Foundation, celebrates innovative, future-oriented projects that contribute towards a more sustainable built environment. It recognizes sustainable practices in engineering, landscape and urban design, infrastructure, and materials and construction technologies. The main category is open to working professionals including architects, engineers, planners, builders and construction firms whose projects have reached an advanced stage in design with construction to take place no earlier than July 1, 2010. There is also a "Next Generation" category for students enrolled in the final year of a bachelor program, or in graduate or post-graduate programs. Entries must be submitted online by March 23, 2011. Go to www.holcimawards.org.
More Oval Accolades for Cannon
Cannon Design Architects of Vancouver was awarded the Facilities of Merit Award at the recent Athletic Business Showcase in San Diego, California for its work on the Richmond Olympic Oval. The annual architectural showcase recognizes achievement in architectural design for athletic and recreational facilities around the world. The Richmond Olympic Oval, chosen from 87 selected projects, was cited for innovative design, commitment to legacy, and having set the benchmark in design and functionality.
Cheek to Cheek with Frank Gehry
By Chloe Malle, New York Observer
November 22, 2010
"Where would you like to go?" a construction worker asked. Everyone was in hard hats. "Uh, we're going to 37, take us to—" someone started to say. "Heaven!" Frank Gehry chimed in. "We'd like to go to heaven. Press heaven!" As the recently installed elevator at 8 Spruce Street floated soundlessly upward, Mr. Gehry, the building's architect, stood facing the closed doors, his hands laced together in front of him. More … http://www.observer.com/2010/real-estate/cheek-cheek-frank-gehry?page=all.
"The Architect's role is to fight for a better world..."
By Cristina Carrillo De Albornoz, The Art Newspaper
November 2010
Oscar Niemeyer was born on 15 December, 1907, in Rio de Janeiro. At ten years old he would make shapes in the air with his fingers, prompting his mother to ask: “What are you doing, boy?” He would reply: “I’m drawing.” “I could picture the drawings in the air and correct them,” he remembers. In 1956 he was commissioned to design an entire city—Brasilia, the new capital of Brazil—which brought him huge international acclaim. He was awarded the Pritzker Prize in 1988 and the Prince of Asturias Award for the Arts in 1989. Now approaching his 103rd birthday, Niemeyer continues to practise from his office opposite Rio’s Copacabana beach, in a circular building that echoes the curves that are emblematic of his architecture. He is currently preparing a book on cathedrals while overseeing the final stages of the Niemeyer Centre (El Centro Cultural Internacional Oscar Niemeyer) in Avilés, Spain. More … http://www.theartnewspaper.com/articles/%E2%80%9CThe+architect%E2%80%99s+role+is+to+fight+for+a+better+world%E2%80%A6%E2%80%9D/21854.
B.C. Teachers College Is Not Independent or Credible: Report
Vancouver Sun
December 8, 2010
A new report recommends sweeping changes to the B.C. College of Teachers, saying the regulator for B.C.'s grade school teachers is not independent or credible. And there is evidence that the B.C. Teachers Federation, the educators' trade union, "has intruded upon the capacity of the college to exercise its mandate, impairing it from being viewed as an independent, self-regulatory body," the report says. More … http://www.vancouversun.com/business/Teachers+College+independent+credible+report/3947460/story.html.
Setting The Stage For Renewal
By Julie V. Iovine, Wall Street Journal
December 8, 2010
The recent reopening of the Arena Stage was an enormous event for this city, and not just because people were eager to see the musical "Oklahoma!" In 1961, the Arena Stage was known for opening the country's first theater-in-the-round. It was designed by the notable Chicago architect Harry Weese, who added a second 514-seat theater in 1971. The latest addition, by Vancouver-based architect Bing Thom, is its most ambitious by far, adding a third theater for experimental work and tripling the overall space. More … http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703572404575634851125212226.html?mod=WSJ_ArtsEnt_LifestyleArtEnt_4.
Dysfunctional College of Teachers Evidence of Failed Self-regulation
By Vaughn Palmer, Vancouver Sun
December 9, 2010
From the heretofore secret files of the B.C. College of Teachers, professional regulatory body for provincial school teachers: Exhibit A: A former teacher, convicted of a series of sexual assaults on his students, applies to have his teaching certificate returned. A panel of college members, minimizing the severity of his offences, certifies him fit to go back to the classroom. More … http://www.vancouversun.com/opinion/editorials/Dysfunctional+college+teachers+evidence+failed+self+regulation/3950001/story.html.