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Continuance of the 90th Annual Meeting of the AIBC will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue in Vancouver. More...
If you have trouble viewing this page, please click here.
Continuance of the 90th Annual Meeting of the AIBC will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue in Vancouver. More...
Continuance of the 90th Annual Meeting of the AIBC will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2009, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (est.) at the Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue, 580 West Hastings, Vancouver. Registration will begin at 9:00 a.m. This continuance became necessary when the agenda was not completed at the initial meeting on Saturday, May 9. Approval of the annual report including financial statements is required. Members will also receive official notification via mail next week. Members can review related meeting materials, including the 2008 Annual Report and financial statements, through the AIBC web site at www.aibc.ca/conference/annual_meeting.html.
Attention all MAIBCs: The Continuing Education System reporting deadline of June 30 is almost upon us. Take full advantage of the new on-line reporting system. Click here to log in, then check your CES status and self-report any activities that are not AIBC-delivered or AIBC-accredited. Final summary transcripts will be mailed in early summer. If you are having difficulty logging in, please contact Aleta Cho at acho@aibc.ca or Catherine Bolter at cbolter@aibc.ca.
Attention Architectural Technologists, Building Designers and Residential Designers: Your first CES deadline is not until June 30, 2010 (next year).
Maura Gatensby MAIBC
Director of Professional Development
The AIBC recently moved to a new database. One of the changes resulting from this upgrade pertains to the log-in for the “Member Access” section of the web site, including the self-reporting of learning units.
Your personal AIBC identification number is no longer being used as your log-in identification and password. Your new log-in i.d. and password can be obtained by going to the “Member Log-in” webpage (http://aibc.memberpro.net/main/body.cfm?menu=login), clicking on “Forgot your Log-in ID”, and specifying the e-mail address to which you would like the new password sent. Please note that this address must match the e-mail address the institute has for you in its database. If you do not have a current e-mail address on file, or if your e-mail address has changed recently and you have not updated your file, the system will deliver an error message. If your e-mail address has changed recently, please send the updated information to membership@aibc.ca prior to attempting to log in.
The new database system and related changes, once fully in place, will make the self-reporting of learning units and other day-to-day processes much more efficient. In the interim, your patience is greatly appreciated.
The AIBC and the Intern Architect Committee have developed a series of short surveys designed to gain a better understanding of what is happening with the Intern Architects in B.C. The surveys will address such as areas as mandatory course work, examination processes, experience with mentors, professional involvement with the community, submitting CERB hours, obstacles encountered in pursuing your internship, and satisfaction with the IA program. The first of the surveys has now been posted through the IA web log. Click here.
The next Oral Review session will be held on June 17 and 18, 2009. The application form is now available to download from the AIBC website. The submission deadline is June 3. Oral Reviews are open to those Intern Architects who have both completed and logged at least 2800 hours (preferably completed all required hours) and completed the required AIBC courses.
The time and location of the planned memorial service and reception for Arthur Erickson on Sunday, June 14, have been changed to 2:30 pm at the Convocation Mall of Simon Fraser University. Additional information, including directions to Simon Fraser University and parking options, is available at www.arthurerickson.com. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation are encouraged to do so to the Arthur Erickson Foundation for Excellence in Architecture (https://vancouverfoundation.ca/aerickson/donateonline.asp).
Click here for the invitation.
The AIBC is pleased to partner with the Architecture Foundation of British Columbia to host a free public lecture on cohousing. Danish architect Jan Gudmand-Høyer and Californian architect Charles Durrett, two pioneers of the cohousing movement, will speak on the development of cohousing as well as future approaches and applications. Their talk will be preceded by a brief Canadian Cohousing Network presentation on the state of cohousing in Canada. It takes place on Monday, June 29, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Emily Carr University of Art and Design, Theatre 301, 1400 Johnston Street (Granville Island), Vancouver. At 5:00 p.m., prior to the event, there will be a reception with light refreshments. Author Charles Durrett will be on hand to sign copies of his new book, Senior Cohousing. Seating is limited, so r.s.v.p. early to communications@aibc.ca with “cohousing” in the subject line. Click here to download the event poster.
2 Core LUs
The institute has a new governing council following its annual meeting on Saturday, May 9. Pierre Gallant MAIBC has been elected President for the coming year. He replaces David Wilkinson MAIBC, who remains on council as past president after completing a two-year term as president. Gallant manages the Vancouver office of Morrison Hershfield Limited. He has spent three years on AIBC Council, including two as treasurer. Others with executive positions on the new council include Gordon Richards MAIBC (Vice President), Scott Kemp MAIBC (Registrar), and Elisa Brandts MAIBC (Treasurer). New to council is Paula Grossman MAIBC. Sylvie Gagnon IA.AIBC will act as the new Intern Liaison to council. To access the media release and to view a complete list of this year’s council, go to http://www.aibc.ca/aibc/media/index.html.
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 II Building Science: Theory, Design, and Practice, scheduled September 17-18, 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 (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
Sustainability and Lighting
This presentation will consist of a one-hour presentation whereby participants will:
It takes place Wednesday June 24, 12:00 noon - 1:00 p.m. at Ambrosia Centre, 638 Fisgard street, Victoria. There is no charge for this event but you must confirm your attendance by June 22 to jmcoe@shaw.ca.
1 Core LU
West End Remembered: A Walking Tour of Vancouver’s West End
Isaac Vanderhorst, Heritage Vancouver board member and museum educator, will lead this lively walking tour. Experience the West End through the eyes of his ancestors, the Abbott’s, residents of this well-known neighbourhood during the 1920s and ‘30s. You’ll hear about prohibition, the depression and other momentous events that marked the neighbourhood’s past, long before the advent of high rises You’ll see prominent heritage buildings as well some hidden jewels off the beaten path. The cost is $15 ($10 for Heritage Vancouver members). Reserve early as the tour is limited to 30 people. For more information, please visit http://www.heritagevancouver.org/
2 Non-core LUs
Join Heritage Vancouver for "The Exotic World of Art Deco World’s Fairs" presented by local media personality and historian Maurice Guibord. Guibord has long been fascinated with world's fairs and the cultural and architectural traits that they either launch or reflect. The influence of these fairs, both in Europe and in the United States, led to the dissemination of the Art Deco idiom. Come and explore the evolution of this architectural form through the expositions of the 1920s and 1930s, as put forward by avant-garde artists and corporate giants. It takes place Thursday, June 18 from 7:00 - 9:30 p.m. at the Vancouver Museum, 1100 Chestnut St, Vancouver. Admission is $10.00 of $5.00 for members of Heritage Vancouver & The Canadian Art Deco Society. For additional information, contact info@heritagevancouver.org or visit the Canadian Art Deco Society at: www.canadianartdecosocity.org/events.html
2 Non-core LUs
Energy Modeling Workshop
Join Light House for an introduction to the power of building simulation techniques in understanding energy efficiency and financial opportunities of high performance building design. This workshop is presented by energy modeling professionals from around the province. Through case studies of modeling success, real project experience, and project decision makers, participants will learn:
It takes place Thursday, June 25, 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. For more information or to register, please visit http://www.eventbrite.com/event/322876733.
6 Core LUs
LEED® for New Construction (NC)
This intensive one-day workshop provides a technical overview of the LEED® Canada for New Construction rating system. LEED® NC recognizes buildings that incorporate design, construction and operational practices that combine healthy, high quality and high-performance systems and materials with reduced environmental impacts. This session takes place on Tuesday, June 23, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at Simon Fraser University’s Segal School of Business, 500 Granville Street, Vancouver. For more information or to register, please click here
7 Core LUs
Vancouver LEED® Users Group
Join Cascadia for an excellent networking and learning opportunity. This month's topic is “Energy: How to move from energy models that tell you what you've done to models that inform design”. It happens on Friday, June 26, 12:00 noon - 1:00 p.m. at the Terasen Gas Building, 1100 West Georgia Street, Vancouver. For more information, please click here .
For a complete list of Cascadia’s upcoming events, please click here
1 Core LU
Free Lecture: Seattle vs. Vancouver
VIA Architecture presents “Seattle versus Vancouver: The Great Urban Debate”, Tuesday, June 16, 7:00 p.m. at SFU Harbour Centre, 515 West Hastings Street, Vancouver. Moderated by Lance Berelowitz, it will feature Gordon Price from Vancouver arguing on behalf of Seattle, while Peter Steinbrueck from Seattle speaks out in favour of Vancouver. Hear two of the region's most provocative thinkers call it as they see it, in what will be a stimulating, no-holds-barred public event that is sure to serve up some challenging new ideas. Admission is free but reservations are required; e-mail cstudies@sfu.ca or call (778) 782-5100. Presented in conjunction with the SFU City Program. For additional information, visit http://via-architecture.blogspot.com/.
1.5 Non-core LUs
Sustainable Community Development Certificate
Sustainability: a six-syllable word with a dozen definitions. But what do you really need to know when the world around you is changing so fast? SFU's City Program and the Centre for Sustainable Community Development offer a certificate designed to give you the practical information you need today, from the most experienced consultants and instructors available. It's a flexible program comprised of eight two- and three-day intensive courses that can be completed in 10-18 months. Courses can be taken individually. For details, visit http://www.sfu.ca/city/scd-sustain.htm.
Urban Design Certificate
SFU City Program's Urban Design Certificate Program is accepting applications for the 2009 cohort. The award-winning Urban Design Certificate Program is a part-time, interdisciplinary, mid-career professional development program, designed for working professionals from diverse backgrounds. Courses are taught by leading urban design practitioners in two- and three-day intensive courses in Vancouver, and occasionally in Alberta. Each course qualifies for core learning units. The application deadline is July 17, 2009, and courses start in September. Visit http://www.sfu.ca/city/udc.htm for details.
Each course qualifies for Core LUs.
Technical and Practice Bulletin for Mid-Rise Wood Frame Building Projects
This seminar will provide guidance on various engineering issues of a technical and practice nature as reflected in the content of the bulletin. The focus will be on professional structural, fire protection and building envelope engineering services for these types of wood-frame mid-rise building projects. This seminar will be of interest to those involved in the engineering design, architectural design, development, construction and building permitting aspects. This seminar will also be available via webcast. It takes place June 15, 2009, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Coast Plaza Hotel, 1763 Comox Street, Vancouver. For details or to register please visit http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/five_six_storey_jun09.html.
Fee: $355.95
5.5 Core LUs
Tuesday, May 12 – Friday, June 26
AIBC Gallery: #100 – 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver
Submissions from the 2009 Annual AIBC Architectural Awards will be on display at the AIBC Gallery for the next month and a half. The exhibit features the 2009 entries, including award recipients, across each of four award categories: the Lieutenant-Governor of British Columbia Award; AIBC Innovation Award; AIBC Special Jury award; and the newly-introduced AIBC Emerging Firm Award.
July 2009
AIBC Gallery: #100 – 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver
Submissions from three of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada’s awards programs will be on display at the AIBC Gallery for the month of July. These awards recognize excellence in the architectural profession. This exhibit features award-winning projects from three programs:
2009 RAIC Awards of Excellence: Bestowed every two years recognizing the greatest achievement in the following categories: Allied Arts Medal, Innovation in Architecture, Advocate for Architecture, Architectural Firm and Green Building;
2008 Governor General's Medal's in Architecture: Recognizing outstanding achievement in recently built projects by Canadian architects. This program, administered jointly with the Canada Council for the Arts every two years, contributes to the development of the discipline and practice of architecture, and increases public awareness of architecture as a vital cultural force in Canadian society; and
2008 National Urban Design Awards: Part of a two-tier program held in cooperation with major metropolitan centres in Canada, recipients are previous year's winners from participating municipalities.
Ellis Mortgages Canada, the official provider of a corporate mortgage discount program for the AIBC, is currently presenting a mortgage renewal contest. EMC provides mortgage renewals at significantly reduced rates. AIBC registrants will be automatically entered in a draw for great prizes, including a Sharp Aquos 42 inch LCD flatscreen TV and an Apple 120 classic iPod. Click here to see the complete contest details. No purchase is necessary. The draw date has been extended to ensure everyone gets a chance to enter. It is applicable to valid mortgages of any size. Click here to register or contact Ama Joppa at (604) 739-0320.
The City of Richmond has initiated an update of Zoning & Development Bylaw No. 5300, initially adopted in 1989. The intent is to bring the bylaw to modern standards and ensure that it reflects the current and anticipated needs of the city in relation to legislative authority, legal requirements and sound land use management while addressing community planning and zoning administrative issues. The document as it now stands, in its fifth draft stage and in two parts, is available through the City of Richmond web site at Richmond Zoning Bylaw Draft Five - Part 1 and Richmond Zoning Bylaw Draft Five - Part 2. The AIBC has contributed to the review process, and a summary of the response to the AIBC submission is available as well (click here). At this time, the city invites interested parties to again submit comments and concerns. Please do so no later than the week of June 15-19, 2009. A sixth and final draft of the proposed new zoning bylaw will then be created, with one final opportunity for input from the public, development community and professional organizations. To access detailed information, visit www.richmond.ca/services/planning/projects/zoning_update.htm. For further information, please contact Holger Burke, MCIP Development Coordinator - City of Richmond, by e-mail (holger.burke@richmond.ca) or phone (604-276-4164).
The Homeowner Protection Office (HPO) Maintenance Matters #7 bulletin, entitled Building Envelope Maintenance and Renewals Planning, is now available online. This bulletin will provide those who live in or look after multi-unit residential buildings with an overview on how to be proactive in the maintenance and care of the building envelope. It is one in a series of bulletins designed to provide practical information on building envelope maintenance for multi-unit residential buildings including townhouses, low and high-rise residential buildings. To download the latest bulletin, click here.
This is a reminder of a public hearing scheduled for Tuesday, June 16, 2009, 7:30 pm in Vancouver City Council Chambers to look at zoning changes that would enable functional and livable basements in single family houses. For more information on the basements zoning proposal, go to vancouver.ca/ecodensity and click on "What is Next?" For council meeting agendas and reports, visit http://vancouver.ca/ctyclerk/councilmeetings/meeting_schedule.cfm. Agendas are posted at least one week prior to the meeting.
The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) has reviewed the National Architectural Accrediting Board’s (NAAB) 2009 Conditions for Accreditation, Public Comment Edition. That document is now available. To download a copy, go to www.ncarb.org/Forms/NCARB_Comments_on_2009_Conditions_22%20May_09.pdf.
The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) is updating its Intern Development Program (IDP) requirements to more closely align with the current practice of architecture. The new program requirements, which will be rolled out as “IDP 2.0,” will help ensure that interns acquire the comprehensive training that is essential for competent practice, and will make reporting experience fundamentally easier. The first phase of the three-phase program introduction happens this July. Detailed information is available through the NCARB webs site: http://www.ncarb.org/.
The Canada Council for the Arts is pleased to invite proposals for the Canadian representation at the 12th International Exhibition for Architecture at the Venice Biennale in Architecture, which will open in September 2010. The Venice Biennale in Architecture is among the most important and prestigious international events in contemporary architecture. Cultural leaders, architects, artists, and nearly 150,000 visitors attend the biennale with the expectation of discovering the cutting edge of architecture. The event offers a rare opportunity to showcase Canadian excellence in architecture, and provides a unique occasion to share ideas with peers from around the world. Presentation proposals should communicate excellence, innovation, and currency in contemporary Canadian architecture including buildings, landscapes and places, or in works of critical and/or design research on architecture, landscape architecture or the urban environment. The deadline for submissions is Tuesday, June 30. All interested applicants are strongly encouraged to contact CCA Architecture Officer Sarah Gelbard (phone 1-800-263-5588 or 613-566-4414, ext. 5270; e-mail sarah.gelbard@canadacouncil.ca) to discuss the specific challenges and requirements of being selected as the Canadian representative. Submission forms and competition information packages are available upon request.
The Interior Designers Institute of British Columbia - Okanagan Chapter invites you to roll up your sleeves and take part in its first continuing education course offered in the Okanagan. Light Learning Lab will engage you in an interactive learning environment designed to explore the intricacies of lighting design. Three different presenters will explore such topics as critical elements to creating lighting designs, specify fixtures for maximum impact, and how to capture and control both ambient and natural light for interior space. Lighting suppliers will be present to provide information for preparing your lighting specifications. It happens Tuesday, June 23, 2009, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. at the Centre for Arts and Technology, Landmark IV Building, in Kelowna. The cost is $75 + GST ($40+ GST for IDIBC members). Refreshments will be provided. The deadline for registration is June 15, and space is limited. To register, please e-mail info@idibc.org or call (604) 298-5211.
Core LUs must be self-reported.
MOSAIC, the non-profit organization dedicated to assisting immigrants and refugees, is seeking volunteers for its Workplace Connections program. This program brings together job-seeking, skilled immigrants with Canadian professionals who volunteer as mentors. The mentors provide informal, one-on-one support to their newcomer partner for up to three months. It involves discussion of all kinds of work-related topics including career options and professional issues. Partners also carry out job search activities together so that the newcomer feels supported. By connecting with a skilled peer to assist in career transition, newcomers gain knowledge, confidence, and access to professional networks. At the same time, the mentors learn about other cultures, and have the opportunity to develop relationships that really make a difference in the life of a new Canadian. For more information on how you can become part of the Workplace Connections program, contact Astarte Sands by e-mail (mentors@mosaicbc.com) or phone (604-254-9626).
Sustainability: everywhere, always. These three words sum up the ambitions of government decision makers and urban professionals everywhere. This fall, the Swedish Trade Council and the Canadian Urban Institute, in co-operation with the Embassy of Sweden, ReNew Canada magazine and the Embassy of Canada, invite you to participate in a learning exchange and technical tour of Sweden to see first-hand how the principles of Sweden's SymbioCity are revolutionizing urbanism and the process of city building. SymbioCity applies integrated thinking to all parts of city infrastructure: from passive energy housing to mixed use communities powered by district energy; from the transformation of defunct industrial complexes to culturally rich, internationally competitive knowledge hubs. No matter what your perspective or focus in city building is, this tour will provide insights and best practice approaches to help your community become more cost-effective, efficient and “green”. This week-long tour will be of particular interest to representatives from all levels of government, trade associations, companies, universities, consultants and media. It happens September 19-26, 2009. The registration deadline is Friday, July 10, and space is limited. Go to http://www.canurb.com/events/event_details.php?id=262 for more information.
Reed Construction Data will be hosting a mid-year construction economic update via webinar on June 23, 2009. Chief Economist Alex Carrick will present an update on the state of the global, Canadian and American economies, including how they will drive construction for the balance of 2009 and 2010. Other items on the agenda include the current economy in terms of employment, interest rates and the value of the Canadian dollar, housing starts forecasts, and investment forecasts for all the categories of construction. This is a free event. For more information and to register, click here to register.
The Vancouver Heritage Foundation invites you to attend “Hotdogs for Heritage”, a family fair and fundraiser to support the VHF. The event will feature an architectural salvage sale along with silent auction, prizes, entertainment and refreshments. It takes place Sunday, July 12, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at 1550 Angus Drive. Admission is by donation. For details, tickets and salvage inventory, visit www.vancouverheritagefoundation.org or call (604) 264-9642.
The creative spirit of Arthur Erickson still resides in the unique, tranquil and secret garden behind a cedar fence on the Point Grey property where the world-renowned architect resided for more that half a century. The beautiful yet informal garden conveys Japanese and West Coast design influences with a large reflecting pond, typical of Erickson’s work. The Arthur Erickson House and Garden Foundation, a charitable non-profit society incorporated in 1993 to acquire the Erickson house and garden, is working with the City of Vancouver to acquire heritage designation and restoration, thereby protecting the property as a place of education and inspiration for future generations. To support this effort, the foundation is opening the garden for guided public tours at set times until October 29. Admission is $10, and advanced notice is required. For further information and tour reservations, please call (604) 738-4195 or e-mail aegarden@telus.net.
Heritage Vancouver invites you to attend its 5th annual Garden Party, hosted by City Councillor Suzanne Anton with special guest Mayor Gregor Robertson. Enjoy a spectacular evening of wine, hors d'oeuvres and conversation while supporting the many worthwhile projects undertaken by Heritage Vancouver. All proceeds will support Heritage Vancouver initiatives to encourage the preservation of Vancouver’s built heritage. It takes place on Wednesday, June 24, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $100 (tax receipts will be issued) and must be purchased in advance, either by cheque (made out to Heritage Vancouver Society and mailed to Heritage Vancouver, PO Box 3336, Main Post Office, Vancouver, BC, V6B 3Y3) or online (through Paypal at www.heritagevancouver.org).
Writing Workshop for Professionals
This is an intensive course for creative professionals (architects, artists, product designers, graphic designers, interior designers, photographers, performers, marketing specialists, etc.) interested in raising the level of their writing capabilities. It is primarily aimed at those who want to write marketing material (brochures, web sites, publicity, proposals) for themselves and for others, and those who wish to write for publication, at a professional level. Class time will be devoted mostly to writing, with one-to-one advice, critique, and discussion. The focus will be on the completion of a single writing project over the duration of the six-session course. Prerequisite: an advanced level of writing ability as indicated by successful completion of one or more post-secondary courses, publication, and/or on-the-job demonstration of superior writing skills. Students must also have a laptop with word processing software and wireless capability for use during class time. Sessions will run 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. on Mondays from June 22 to July 27, 2009. The cost is $295. To register, call (604) 844-3810 or visit www.ecuad.ca/cs. Space is limited so register early.
AIBC members and associates are invited to the next offering in the Bunting Coady Architects Speaker Series, “Innovation in Architecture: A Practical Evaluation of Biomimetic Features. This event features Teresa Coady MAIBC, FRAIC, AIA, AAA, LEED® AP. Coady, chief executive officer of Bunting Coady Architects, is recognized as a pioneer in sustainable and energy efficient design. The presentation will look at the integration of biomimicry – adopting nature’s best ideas to solve human problems – into architecture and design. The presenter will discuss the merits of incorporating biomimetic elements into contemporary design. It happens Wednesday, June 17, 2009 from 12:00 noon – 1:00 p.m. at #200-1132 Alberni Street, Vancouver. Lunch will be provided. Please r.s.v.p. to Katrina Wright at speakerseries@buntingcoady.com no later than Friday, June 12 This speaker series is intended to raise awareness of green building design and sustainability.
The annual Interior Designers Institute of British Columbia Garage Sale is Saturday, June 20, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. at Vancouver ReStore, 69 West 69th Avenue (Marine Drive and Manitoba Street). Proceeds from this year’s event will go to Habitat for Humanity. Donations of new and used building materials, fabrics and furnishings are being accepted. If you have items you would like to donate, please contact Sabrina Di Maio (sabrina@ledingham.com) with the description and quantity. Visit http://www.idibc.org/news/event/ for more information.
The Interior Designers Institute of British Columbia, along with its new platinum sponsor, Heron Construction & Millwork Ltd., has recently announced details of this year’s IDIBC summer party. Titled A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the event takes place on Thursday, June 25 at the Terminal City Club (837 West Hastings Street, Vancouver). Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Advance reservations are required. Visit http://www.idibc.org/news/event/a_midsummer_nights_dream/ for more information and to download the r.s.v.p. form.
This year’s World Architecture Festival takes place from November 4 - 6, 2009 in Barcelona. Submissions are now being accepted for its prestigious awards program. In addition to the Completed Buildings category, event organizers have added three new sections from which to choose: Future Projects, Interiors and Fit Out, and Structural Design. The deadline for submissions is June 26, 2009. For more information and to enter, visit www.worldarchitecturefestival.com.
You are invited to attend the 4th Canadian Solar Buildings Conference. June 25-27, 2009 in Toronto. This year’s gathering will build on previous conferences in presenting the latest results of Canadian research in the use of solar energy in buildings. Topics will include the latest in photovoltaic material and the use of geothermal energy to hybrid systems and utilization of solar energy in the built environment. Participants will discover the latest design tools and methods for integrating solar technologies in residential and commercial buildings, along with the challenges and successes of these applications through case studies. One of the featured events will be a panel discussion on urban energy systems and zero energy housing. For more information, visit www.solarbuildings.ca/en/conference.
The next event in the Summit magazine series of workshops on challenges in public procurement is being held in B.C. “Managing Construction and Other Major Projects” is designed to help you deal with investment opportunities for rebuilding municipalities in an economic downturn. Discussion leaders Steve Bauld (former city manager of the City of Hamilton and now Vice-president of the Ontario General Contractors Association) and Kevin McGuinness, (a lawyer with Ontario’s Attorney General) have strong backgrounds in public procurement and will share their expertise with practitioners at all levels of government. In addition, Warren Perks, Director of Industry Practices for the B.C. Construction Association, will also be a guest speaker. Topics for the day include:
This unique opportunity is presented in partnership between Summit magazine and the BC Institute of the Purchasing Management Association of Canada (PMAC). The workshop will be held on Friday, June 19, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. at the Delta Burnaby Hotel & Conference Centre, 4331 Dominion Street, Burnaby. AIBC members are eligible for the member rate of $475 + GST. This includes lunch, conference materials, and two take-away books. Seating is limited seating, so please sign up early. Contact mcegalbreath@summitconnects.com or exec@bci-pmac.bc.ca for more information.
Several works completed by Okanagan-area architects will be presented at the Penticton Art Gallery from May 15 – June 19. The exhibit features projects completed by architects working and living in a common Canadian landscape – a valley defined by its desert climate, bountiful lakes, pine forests and blue sky. Many of these projects have been recognized with Governor General and Lieutenant Governor awards. The exhibit aims to advance public knowledge of quality design, and to highlight the architect’s role in enhancing communities and improving lives. For more information, click here. This exhibit is sponsored by the B.C. Chapter of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada.
The Cultural Development Network and the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University are pleased to present "ReGenerating Community: Arts, Community and Governance National Conference" this coming September in Melbourne, Australia. This international conference will discuss local governments responses to creating new models of civic engagement. Submissions for conference papers and presentation are now being accepted. Conference themes include:
For additional information including the Call for Presentations form, visit the conference web site at http://www.cdn-generations.net.au/conference.htm
The 26th Passive and Low Energy Conference (PLEA) will be held June 21-24, 2009 at Laval University’s School of Architecture, in Québec City. In the current context of important technological developments in the fields of alternative materials and energy, the aim of this year’s conference is to position users’ behavior as a key “active” determinant of energy performance in “passive” design through adaptive opportunities. PLEA2009 particularly addresses the applicability of passive design strategies in extreme climates, improving occupants’ satisfaction and encouraging environmental diversity whilst minimizing environmental impacts. Acclaimed keynote speakers and more than 160 presentations will offer the most recent thoughts and researches in the rapidly evolving world of low energy architecture. Experience three days of animated talks and debates about the Challenges, Strategies and Integration from the occupant’s perspective as it relates to truly low energy architecture and community planning. For more information, go to http://www.plea2009.arc.ulaval.ca/E/program.html
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 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 information on keynote speakers, events, registration, and other conference-related opportunities, visit 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.
The organizers of Interior Design Show West are accepting entries for an open design competition that will be an exciting new part of IDSwest 2009 this September in Vancouver. PREFAB 20/20, building on existing concepts for pre-built structures, is intended to push the boundaries of architecture on the West Coast. It challenges architects to share their visions for a 400 sq. ft. home. A 20 ft. by 20 ft. space has been set aside at the tradeshow to highlighting select entries. PREFAB 20/20 is sponsored by IDSwest, AZURE magazine, the AIBC, and Architecture For Humanity. For detailed information on the competition as well as other highlights from IDSwest 2009, go to www.idswest.com/prefab.php.
The association for Applied Science Technologists and Technician of British Columbia is accepting nominations for its 2009 awards. ASTTBC Awards are intended to recognize and honoring ASTTBC members, as well as individuals and organizations in the B.C. science and technology community, who have selflessly supported the association through volunteering or have made significant contributions to technology or the profession of technology. Nominations are welcomed from both ASTTBC members as well as non-members, and non-members are eligible for some of the awards. For more information or to nominate a deserving person, click here. The deadline for nominations is August 1, 2009.
British Columbia architecture students are encouraged to participate in “Brick-stainable: Re-Thinking Brick”, an international design competition sponsored by Potomac Valley Brick. Current “green” and “living” building initiatives acknowledge the importance of integrated design solutions to achieve sustainability goals. This competition seeks to explore the potential of brick construction in the creation of an energy efficient building and challenges design teams to maximize the physical characteristics of this construction in the creation of integrated design solutions. The project involves creating a hypothetical guest house utilizing brick that is a model of energy efficiency. By exploring the thermal qualities of clay masonry construction, designers are asked to create a net-zero energy building utilizing this as a primary material. A reputable jury will select winners in two distinct award categories: Whole Building Design and Technical Design, with nearly $30,000 in prize money to be given out. The deadline for entries is October 30, 2009. For registration and details, including site description and drawing, visit the competition web site at www.brick-stainable.com.
Three British Columbians have been announced as the recipients of the 2009 BC Creative Achievement Awards for Applied Art and Design. They include furniture designer Judson Beaumont and industrial designer Robert Johnson, both of Vancouver, and ceramic designer Lilach Lotan of Nanaimo. Each recipient receives $2,500 and authority to use of the British Columbia Creative Achievement Award seal to signify their creative excellence. The British Columbia Achievement Foundation is an independent foundation established and endowed by the province to celebrate community service, arts, humanities and enterprise.
World Architecture News invites entries for its Civic Building Award. This is the third component of the 2009 WAN “Excellence in Design” awards program, which involves a bi-monthly international competition based on sector that culminates with an international exposition in early 2010. For the WAN Civic Buildings Award, a top-level panel will consider public buildings - libraries, theatres, police stations, museums, etc. - completed during the last three years. The panel will assess entries on a number of factors including originality, innovation, use of colour, form and special quality, sustainability and context. However, the greatest weight will be given to:
The closing date for submissions is Tuesday, June 30, 2009. For more information and to register, go to http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/index.php?fuseaction=wanappln.civicbuildingenterpage.
Nominations are now being accepted for the 2010 Governor General’s Awards in Visual and Media Arts. Each year, the Canada Council and the Governor General of Canada collaborate to honour excellence in visual and media arts. As many as eight awards of $25,000 are available: up to six awards for distinguished artistic career achievement in visual and/or media arts; the Saidye Bronfman Award for excellence in the fine crafts; and the Outstanding Contribution award, recognizing an individual or group for outstanding contribution to contemporary visual and/or media arts. Note: the visual arts category includes architecture. Nominees must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada. The nominator must be a recognized Canadian specialist in the visual or media arts or fine crafts. Individuals may only be nominated in one of the three categories (Artistic Achievement, Saidye Bronfman Award or Outstanding Contribution). Winners are selected by an independent peer jury of senior visual and media arts professionals. The deadline for nominations is June 29, 2009. For detailed information and nomination forms, visit http://www.canadacouncil.ca/prizes/ggavma/ic127235956842343750.htm
Vancouver’s Broadway Tech Centre has received a 2009 Green Roofs Award of Excellence for “Best Commercial Intensive Rooftop Garden”. The 17-acre urban business campus was designed by Bunting Coady Architects with ecological and urban design by Sharp & Diamond Landscape Architecture Inc. It features multiple green roofs with native and hardy trees, shrubs, perennials and grasses. These awards, established in 2003 by Green Roofs for Healthy Cities, recognize excellence in innovative and integrated green roof design. Winners are selected by a seven-member, multi-disciplinary team of judges, including architects, landscape architects, engineers and horticulturists. Submissions are evaluated according to aesthetic, economic, functional and ecological criteria.
CEI Architecture Planning Interiors, in joint venture with Diamond Schmitt Architects Inc., has been awarded the Earth Award of Excellence by the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) of Canada for the design of the North Vancouver City Library. This project was also the recipient of a 2009 Lieutenant-Governor Award of Merit in Architecture from the AIBC along with a Sustainability Award from the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of BC, and being chosen Best New Library in BC by the Library Association of British Columbia. The Earth Award is recognizes excellence in resource preservation and environmentally sound commercial building management. It is presented to a building that has made significant efforts to address environmental issues faced by both older and newer buildings.
The Oliva, a project by Peter J. Dandyk Architect Inc., has received LEED® Silver Mixed Use certification. It is believed this is the first retail/commercial/residential project in British Columbia to be so designated. The project converts an outdated suburban mall into a vibrant hub in downtown Tsawwassen with an emphasis on sustainability and pedestrian use. It also involved a unique partnership Century Group, the Tsawwassen Rotary Club, the Municipality of Delta, and the Tsawwassen First Nation.
Vancouver-based Omicron has announced its acquisition of BCMP Architects, a prominent Calgary architecture, interior design, planning and real estate development services firm. The move positions Omicron as one of the largest integrated design and construction teams in Western Canada, with more than 200 architects, engineers, interior designers and construction professionals.
By Julia Levitt, Worldchanging
May 5, 2009
We need new leadership from architects, planners and designers. Yes, we need them to design better buildings, streets and public spaces. But what we may need most from them has little to do with the act of design itself. That's because we need a massive change in the very way buildings and places are planned, regulated and seen by the public. We urgently need people to re-imagine their cities in very directly political ways, and no one else is as prepared for that job as the talented few who've been trained to understand form and space and place. More …
Neighbours fear the 15 buildings are too dense and would set a bad precedent in the historic area
By John Mackie, Vancouver Sun
June 6, 2009
Some Shaughnessy residents are seeing red over a proposed townhouse development near 16th and Granville. Protest signs have popped up around the wealthy enclave reading "McRae Development Sets Bad Precedent." It's the latest wrinkle in a four-year fight between some residents and developer Brian Bell, who wants to build 15 townhouses in an empty lot on the edge of Shaughnessy. More …
Law would clearly spell out roles
By Kanana Katharangsiporrn, Bangkok Post
June 8, 2009
The Architect Council of Thailand (ACT) has proposed liberalising the profession to legalise ventures between Thai and foreign architects. The new Central Embassy project is at the heart of a complaint lodged by a Thai architect who claims he could not find its design firm, London-based Amanda Levete Architects, on a list of licensed Thai architects or architecture firms. The proposal is response to widespread but illegal instances of foreign architects designing local property projects for many years. When operating under Thai law, foreign architects would be required to obtain licences and the scope of their work would also be properly defined, said the council's president, Admiral Thanit Kittiampon. More …
By Cliff Kuang, Fast Company
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Which architects have the most unusual, influential visions for the field? More …
By Jake Rupert, The Ottawa Citizen
June 10, 2009
The municipal council meeting that will decide how the city is to grow over the next several decades is under way at City Hall. As part of the city’s overall official plan, which governs what can be built and where, the city is contemplating expanding the urban boundary, beyond which major development is not supposed to occur. More …
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