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The Conference Program and Online Registration for the 2009 AIBC Annual Conference is now available. Click here for more...
If you have trouble viewing this page, please click here.
The Conference Program and Online Registration for the 2009 AIBC Annual Conference is now available. Click here for more...
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.
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.
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 77 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.
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 at that time to ensure it is accurate. Final reporting of learning activities for the “seventh” reporting period remains June 30, 2009.
Dr. Diane Archibald
Director of Professional Development
A: Yes, so long as they are majority owned/controlled by registrants who can be held accountable by the AIBC for competence and conduct. Certificates of Practice will still need to be issued, and rules for issuance of certificates will have to be respected.
Click here to read more from the Special Meeting Q&A 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
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 LU
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
March 24 – April 19, 2009
Opening Reception: Thursday, March 26, 2009, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
AIBC Gallery: #100 – 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver
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 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).
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 provincial government has finalized its new energy efficiency regulations for windows, doors, skylights and sliding glass doors. Details can be found online at the Ministry of Energy, Mines & Petroleum Resources web site (http://www.empr.gov.bc.ca/EAED/EnergyEfficiency/Pages/EEAct.aspx) and additional information will be posted over the next few weeks. Those with questions on these BC Energy Efficiency Act regulations are invited to submit them via e-mail. They will be used to create a “Questions and Answers” document based on inquiries received from industry players and the public since February 6, 2009.
The Homeowners Protection Office has introduced a new online system for new home registration forms. Under the new approach, licensed residential builders in good standing can log into their individual online account and order HPO New Home Registration Forms at any time. Once payment is confirmed, requests are sent directly to the builder’s warranty provider, which will then be able to enroll the project and seal the new form electronically. The builder will be notified by e-mail once the project is enrolled, and will then be able to download the complete form and use it to obtain a building permit. Municipalities and regional districts will also have access to the system and may choose to verify the enrollment online instead of requiring a paper copy of the form. An information bulletin containing details on how to use the new system as well as a tutorial is also available on the HPO website (http://www.hpo.bc.ca/). The new online system comes into place on Wednesday, April 1, 2009.
To celebrate its one-year anniversary, Opus Art & Design Media invites AIBC registrants to attend a series of inspiring information sessions given by local and international professionals. Six presentations are scheduled throughout April, with topics ranging from portfolio preparation, airbrushing, textile printing, and digital imagery. All sessions are free, but space is limited and RSVP is required. Those interested in attending should RSVP at www.opusframing.com/rsvp.html by April 3, 2009.
During the month of April, Opus will be offering an exclusive discount for AIBC registrants on select Copic Pens and Staedtler products. For more information, please visit http://www.opusframing.com/email/Opus_DT_AIBC.html.
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). An opening reception will be held on Thursday, April 2 from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
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
The Centre for Policy Studies on Culture and Communities at Simon Fraser University, in collaboration with the SFU School of Communication, is hosting a research salon titled “Building W”. As the opening of the new Woodward's Building approaches in fall of 2009, SFU students have been working with the W2 project to support its activities as an arts and media in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. This salon includes two panels. One will discuss “Capacity Building”, including modeling and planning for arts and media programming as well as skills development training. The second will examine “The Balancing Act”, with consideration to grants and fundraising, access to spaces, and social enterprise business plans. Discussion will follow. It takes place on Friday, April 3, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. at SFU Harbour Centre, 515 West Hastings, Vancouver. Please reserve your seat at beale@sfu.ca.
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 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.
Now in its third year, GeoWeb is an annual conference focused on the convergence of geographic information systems (GIS) and the Internet as well as the economic, social and technical consequences of this convergence. GeoWeb 2009 takes place July 27-31, 2009 at the Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue in Vancouver. This year’s conference will examine cityscapes and highlight the importance of BIM/CAD/GIS integration and collaboration in the urban environment, particularly in light of global economic and environmental concerns. This year’s event will also feature an academic track of refereed academic papers and published proceedings. Note: abstract submissions that contribute to the state of the art in support of city modeling, including 3D structure design, semantic modeling, model acquisition, visualization, and analysis, will be accepted until April 7, 2009. Representatives from both public and private organizations are invited to meet, discuss and learn about today’s most innovative geospatial technologies. The conference also features a contest open to all full time students, the goal being to develop software or a theoretical solution to help advance development of the GeoWeb. Participants must register by Friday, April 3rd, 2009, and winners will travel to the conference at no cost to present their work, and will receive a cash honorarium. The official program will be announced on April 2, 2009, at which time online registration begins. For detailed information and to register, visit http://geowebconference.org/.
Can the Downtown East Side be saved? Does it need saving? Who can do the work? Who is allowed to comment or act? The Langara Dialogues series presents “The Downtown East Side (DTES): Myths & Realities - A Panel Discussion”. It takes place Wednesday, April 1, 2009, 7:30 – 9:00 p.m. at Newberry Hall, Langara College, 100 West 49th Avenue, Vancouver. Panelists include: David Eby, Executive Director – B.C. Civil Liberties Association; Michael Geller MAIBC, FCIP; Wendy Pedersen, Carnegie Centre Action Project; and Bob Ransford, Communications Consultant. The Langara Dialogues are a series of monthly debates one major social issues such as health care, crime and punishment, the media, climate change and affordable housing. The debaters are high-profile community leaders, and audience participation is encouraged. Note: Space is limited.
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.
Sustainability Dialogues
Topic: Economy - South
Thursday, April 2, 2009
5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Eaglequest Coyote Creek Golf Club, 7778 152nd Street, SurreyRapid economic change has recently ricocheted across the globe. Large-scale stimulus spending on infrastructure, housing and even arts and culture has resulted. What opportunities or challenges can be leveraged to advance regional sustainability during this economic turmoil? Will our burgeoning green economy continue to thrive, and what sectors might benefit the most?
Featured speakers include:
- Chris Barrington-Leigh, Junior Fellow of the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research and postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Economics, University of British Columbia
- Marc Lee, Senior Economist - Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives
- Ken Peacock, Director of Economic Research - BC Business Council
- To register, go to http://www.metrovancouver.org/region/dialogues/Pages/RegistrationSouth.aspx.
Sustainability Community Breakfasts
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 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
CTM Exhibits Worldwide invites you to attend a special roundtable forum titled “Recession Proof your Exhibit Program”, which will examine how to utilizing trade shows and other effective marketing strategies in difficult economic times Presenter Fred Fox, founder of the Exhibitor Education Institute and a leader in exhibit marketing, will discuss the importance of maintaining exhibition and marketing budgets in a time of recession. It takes place Tuesday, April 7, 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon (location TBA). Those interested in attending are asked to r.s.v.p. by Thursday, April 2 to ssomers@ctmexhibits.com or call (604) 244-1740.
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 recently-established Architecture for Humanity Vancouver makes its public debut this Spring when it hosts a charity art auction. Auction 2009 takes place Friday, April 3 at Grace Gallery, 1898 Main Street. This event is open to the public. Up for bid will be a variety of works by local artists, sketches from renowned architects, and a feature piece from internationally acclaimed local artist Stan Douglas. In addition to a meet-and-greet with the artists, the auction will also serve as the official launch of AFH Vancouver’s first project, a laneway housing idea competition. AFH Vancouver is the new local chapter of the international body that creates opportunities for architects and designers to build a more sustainable future through design build programs, partnerships with community development groups, workshops, educational forums, and other activities. AFH Vancouver is a volunteer organization committed to bringing architectural solutions and design services to communities in need. Proceeds from this auction will go towards AFH Vancouver’s operational costs and ongoing projects, as well as the international body's worldwide humanitarian efforts. For additional information, contact Communications Director Rob Aoki by (778-881-8550) or e-mail (robertaoki@gmail.com).
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 in Whistler, B.C. from May 20-22, 2009. The 2009 program, with a theme of “A Better Future: Adapting to Change”, will feature content from a wide variety of fields including planning and land use, landscape architecture, land conservation, agriculture, real estate and land valuation, urban design, and more. It provides an ideal opportunity to learn how other professions view current and emerging land use issues, meet practitioners of other land use professions, develop interdisciplinary opportunities, create more productive working relationships. Visit http://www.bclandsummit.com/register/index.html for more information and to register. Register by March 31 to take advantage of early bird rates. For those interested in sponsoring a program, go to http://www.bclandsummit.com/sponsors/become.html or contact the offices of the British Columbia Society of Landscape Architects.
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.
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.
Clyde Grout MAIBC, along with Toronto-based glass artist Sarah Hall, has been chosen for the American Institute of Architects’ Design Merit Award for Sacred Landscapes. The two were chosen for their collaborative effort in creating an innovative wind tower for the new Theology Library at Regent College in Vancouver. Titled “True North / Lux Nova”, the 40-foot tower is the first permanent installation of photovoltaic glass art in North America, collecting energy during the day to light the tower at night. The prestigious award recognizes their work in creating an architectural landmark that combines art, spirituality, and ecology.
Norman Foster, Frank Gehry, Richard Rogers and Renzo Piano are architects, geniuses, stars - and old. They're children of the Depression, the last one and the current one, and are all well past 70, with Gehry having just turned 80. Happy Birthday, Frank! And welcome to the harsh new reality of the minimalist economy. For our newest city halls, opera houses, museums and galleries, for the airports and public parks, university buildings and bridges - for unleashing the art of architecture, we have the superstars to thank. It's hard to imagine a more scintillating version of urbanity than the one they delivered. More …
By Jack Diamond, Globe and Mail
Monday, March 23, 2009
Architecture is an expression of its time and place. It reflects the values, power and dominant elites of the prevailing social structure and the relevant position of nation states in the global context. It even demonstrates the attitudes of imperial powers to their subject peoples. The most obvious example is the pyramids of Egypt. In a hierarchical culture in which the disparity between pharaoh and fellaheen was immense, so was the difference in scale between royal monuments and the hovels of the poor. More …
By Sean Ruthen, re:Place Magazine
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Mark Twain once said that you should never let your schooling come between you and your education. Given our present age of economic uncertainty, one could add that you should never let your employment come between you and your livelihood. Already there has been much talk of a coming creative renaissance, a regeneration of the imagination, with the promise of such fantastic and revolutionary visions as those of Etienne Boullee and Sant’Elia, to name but two whose genius was born of an idle economy. Much has also been said about taxpayer’s money being used for new infrastructure, with the promise of government spending on public buildings and institutions not seen since the public works programs implemented during the Great Depression. And so, in the meantime, i.e. until this money promised by our government representatives begins to actually materialize as buildable projects, numerous architecture firms are being forced to downsize, as has happened since time immemorial, leaving a large and talented group of individuals to their own devices, in the hopes that they may discover an alternate means of pursuing their intellectual livelihoods. More …
Nine honoured for lifetime achievement
By Paul Gessell, Canwest News Service
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Architect Raymond Moriyama first constructed a building at age 12. It was a tree house in a British Columbia internment camp where Moriyama, his family and other Japanese-Canadians lived during the Second World War. The building met all of Moriyama's goals. It gave him a private place to dream and to listen to the sounds of the wind that so captivated him in the treetop environment. As well, the tree house blended so perfectly into its surroundings that the camp's RCMP guards never knew it existed. More …
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