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Via Architecture is celebrating its 25th anniversary with Vancouver Versus Seattle, a two-city debate scheduled for Tuesday, June 16, 2009. More...
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Via Architecture is celebrating its 25th anniversary with Vancouver Versus Seattle, a two-city debate scheduled for Tuesday, June 16, 2009. More...
With the passing of Arthur Erickson, who died May 20, 2009 at the age of 84, Canada has lost one of its treasures, and B.C.’s architectural community has lost a true leader. A memorial service will held in his honour on Sunday, June 14. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Arthur Erickson Fellowship for aspiring architects – details of which will be announced at the service. For more information and to view the complete obituary, please visit http://www.legacy.com/can-vancouver/Obituaries.asp?Page=LifeStory&PersonID=127582707. Please note, the time and location for the memorial service have changed to the following:
Sunday, June 14, 2:30 p.m.
Convocation Mall
Simon Fraser University
Burnaby, B.C.
The AIBC is pleased to announce the return of Maura Gatensby MAIBC to the position of Director of Professional Development effective May 5, 2009. She previously held this position from January 2006 to December 2007. Gatensby has been a practicing architect and an active member of the AIBC since 1991, including her recent involvement as a member of the AIBC Investigations Committee. She replaces Dr. Diane Archibald, who left the institute on April 30, 2009. During her tenure with the AIBC, Archibald made a substantial contribution to the annual conference including the addition of new elements to its program development process. The institute wishes her the very best in her future endeavours.
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
At its annual meeting on May 13, the Interior Design Institute of British Columbia announced Robert Ledingham RID IDC, of Ledingham Design Consultants, as its new president. He replaces Jim Toy RID IDC LEED® AP, who completed his two-year term during which he worked closely with the AIBC. Ledingham has long had a strong working relationship with the architectural community. It was also announced that Catherine Youngren RID, of Catherine Youngren Interior Designers Inc., will be the new IDIBC representative to the Joint Task Force for Legislative Change, replacing Keath Seeton RID. Of note: Ledingham, Youngren and Seeton were all members of the original IDIBC task force that initiated discussions with the AIBC in 2003.
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.
Each year, the AIBC annual conference comes to life through the generous support of its many sponsors. The AIBC gratefully acknowledges the firms and companies listed below for their support of a multitude of conference offerings including sessions, receptions, meals, and special events. In turn, these organizations form meaningful relationships with the AIBC, while strengthening brand recognition and reaching potential clients and partners. The AIBC is already pre-booking sponsorship opportunities for next year’s conference. To learn more, please contact AIBC Communications Specialist Lisa Toyne at ltoyne@aibc.ca.
2009 AIBC Annual Conference sponsors:
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.
At the institute’s annual meeting on Saturday, May 9, the agenda was not completed. As a result, a continuance is necessary. This will take place within the next two months. The date, time and location have not yet been confirmed; members will be notified once all the necessary arrangements have been made.
In the interim, members can review related annual meeting materials including the 2008 Annual Report, available online through the AIBC web site at http://www.aibc.ca/conference/annual_meeting.html. Approval of the annual report will be required at the forthcoming meeting.
New standards in sustainability and fresh takes on design carried the day at the annual AIBC Architectural Awards, announced Saturday, May 9, as part of the Architectural Institute of British Columbia conference. Eight awards were bestowed upon British Columbia’s architectural leaders, including two Lieutenant-Governor Award in Architecture medals, three Lieutenant-Governor Award in Architecture merit awards, an AIBC Innovation Award, and an AIBC Special Jury Award. In addition, the AIBC introduced a new award category for emerging architectural firms.
Top honours went to: The Arts & Social Sciences 1 and Blusson Hall at Simon Fraser University, a project by Busby Perkins+Will Architects; and Kensington Park, Robert Burnaby Park and Swalwell Park Washrooms, a series of washrooms by Bruce Carscadden Architect. Also honoured was Dockside Green – Synergy, the groundbreaking sustainable community by Busby Perkins+Will.
To see the list of all the winners, click here to read the AIBC media release.
Appreciation goes out from Read Jones Christoffersen Ltd. to the many generous delegates who attended the Saturday lunch at the annual conference. Approximately $2500 was donated on the spot to support “Team RJC – Ride for Rick”, part of the BC Cancer Foundation’s “Ride to Conquer Cancer” taking place this June. The team of cyclists is participating in honour of Rick Banman, an RJC associate who recently succumbed to his battle with cancer. A donation of $2500 has been made to RJC sponsor representative and team rider Douglas Watts in the name of AIBC Annual Conference attendees. Watts and his RJC colleagues extend their sincere gratitude for the remarkable display of support. For those of you would also like to support the ride, please visit www.rideforrick.ca.
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
The True Costs of Living Buildings
Jason F. McLennan, CEO of Cascadia Green Building Council, will be presenting a the results of a recent case study on the true costs of lving buildings. A subsequent endeavor to the widely distributed Packard Sustainability Matrix, published by the David and Lucile Packard Foundation in 1999, the purpose of Cascadia’s Financial Study is to investigate the economic obstacles to creating living buildings, as well as their variation based on building type and location. Using a RFP process, Cascadia contracted with a multi-disciplinary team including SERA Architects, Gerding / Edlen Development, Skanska Construction, Interface Engineering, and New Buildings Institute. The presentation takes place June 3, 2009, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at University Club, University of Victoria. Tickets are $20 per person, including lunch. For more information, or to RSVP, please visit http://truecostvictoria.eventbrite.com/
2 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
VIA Architecture Anniversary Debate
Via Architecture is celebrating its 25th anniversary. As part of the celebration, a two-city debate between Vancouver and Seattle has been organized - with each city hosting an event. Titled Vancouver Versus Seattle, this great urban debate features Gordon Price (from Vancouver, arguing for Seattle) and Peter Steinbrueck from Seattle, arguing for Vancouver).
The Vancouver debate, moderated by Lance Berelowitz, takes place Tuesday, June 16 at Simon Fraser University's Harbour Centre. The event is co-sponsored by the Simon Fraser University City Program and is free to attend. However, reservations are required. Call (778) 782-5100 or email cstudies@sfu.ca. For more information, click here.
Vancouver Debate
Tuesday, June 16
Debate: 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Reception: 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.
SFU Harbour Centre
515 West Hastings Street, Vancouver
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 CertificateSFU 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
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
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.
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 who renew their mortgage with EMC will be automatically entered, with prizes increasing along with AIBC participation. The draw date has been extended to ensure everyone gets a chance to enter. It is applicable to valid mortgages of any size. If you submit your renewal registration before May 31st, you not only get your name in the draw for fabulous prizes, but also a $5.00 Starbuck’s gift certificate. Click here or contact Ama Joppa at (604) 739-0320.
AIBC members are invited to sign up for The Challenge Series, the story of Vancouver's Olympic Village at Southeast False Creek. Intended as a resource to educate and inspire communities, professionals, owners and builders, the publication will trace the Millennium Water project through its full development cycle and document the various building systems that make up this unique contribution to stainable community building. The series will also celebrate the contributions of those who have worked on the project throughout the past two decades. Free, downloadable print packages, eight in total, will be available online at www.thechallengeseries.ca. Those subscribing to the e-bulletin will receive notification of each new monthly chapter release. Chapter One – The History and Policy of Southeast False Creek - was issued May 20. The entire series can also be ordered directly through the web site.
Architectural firms registered in British Columbia are hereby invited to submit Expressions of Interest and Qualification for architectural services respecting a new Ronald McDonald House British Columbia. Ronald McDonald House BC, which has been serving the province for more than 25 years, is preparing to build a new, 40,000 sq. ft. facility. Please contact Ronald McDonald House BC Executive Director Richard Pass at rpass@rmhbc.ca for the documentation necessary to inform your submission. That documentation has had preliminary review by the AIBC.
The Ministry of Small Business, Technology and Economic Development is providing the following information regarding the H1N1 influenza outbreak. Canada is among a number of countries that have officially reported cases of influenza H1N1 (human swine influenza). The U.S. Centre for Disease Control has determined that the virus is spreading from human to human, though it has not determined how easily the virus spreads between people. Information on standard health precautionary measures are available through a number of sources, including the following:
It is believed that industry, business and commerce have an important role to play in informing staff about influenza, ensuring there are measures in place to help safeguard staff health, and preparing for business continuity in the event of widespread illness. For this reason, the ministry is encouraging all businesses to have a business continuity plan in place. If you would like more information on this topic or if you have questions, please contact Executive Coordinator Nancy Murray by e-mail (Nancy.T.Murray@gov.bc.ca) or phone (250-952-0104).
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 National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) has disciplined eight Architect Registration Examination candidates for posting examination content on the internet. In doing so, NCARB affirmed that the disclosure of ARE content diminishes the reliability and defensibility of the exam, and ultimately undermines the integrity of the process, something it takes very seriously. NCARB - comprised of architectural registration boards of all 50 American states as well as those of the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands - assists its member boards in providing a certification program for individual architects. The ARE is designed to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public by providing a psychometrically justifiable and legally defensible process that measures the level of competence necessary to practice independently. ARE candidates are required to sign a confidentiality agreement, and examination guidelines spell out the consequences of cheating. All eight in questions have had their exam testing privileges suspended for periods ranging from three to five years. Five also had their exam scores cancelled. The disciplinary actions become part of each individual’s permanent NCARB record. Click here to see the related media release.
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 Creative City Network of Canada has released a special report on cultural infrastructure to assist Canadian municipalities plan for renovations and new building projects. The document, Cultural Infrastructure: An Integral Component of Canadian Communities, is based on international and national research. The Creative City Network of Canada, which provides professional development and research for cultural development administrators, will be is being distributing the report to municipalities across the country. For additional information, go to www.creativecity.ca.
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 Canadian Society for Marketing Professional Services (CSMPS) invites you to attend its 2009 Marketing Awards of Excellence. Now in its second year, this awards program was created to acknowledge outstanding marketing achievements and inspire innovation. Enjoy a fun evening of socializing and networking, and celebrate the best in professional marketing. It all happens on Wednesday, June 3, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Pacific Palisades Hotel, 1277 Robson Street, Vancouver. For more information and to register, go to www.csmps.com or contact Wendy Thompson at (604) 818-6614.
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.
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.
The Vancouver Foundation has announced its grant application process for 2009. Funding is available for a wide variety of charitable programs and projects in areas ranging from arts and culture and education to environment, animal welfare, and children, youth and families. Due to the economic downturn and subsequent decline in the foundation’s endowment, there will only be one grant cycle this year, with the total amount of funds available for grants at approximately half the amount of previous years. Applications should be for projects that will start in 2010. Final decisions on projects receiving grants will take place in December 2009, with successful applicants being notified shortly thereafter. For detailed information , including funding guidelines and application process, visit http://www.vancouverfoundation.ca/grants/index.htm.
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 Creative City Network of Canada has issued a Call for Presentations for its upcoming conference in Fredericton, New Brunswick, September 9-11, 2009. Researchers, academics and practitioners are invited to submit an abstract detailing a research paper, case study or recent planning initiative on a topic relevant to CCNC conference delegates. Relevant topics include but are not limited to:
Abstracts are to be submitted by e-mail to: ccnc09@creativecity.ca by June 1, 2009. For details and a submission form, visit http://www.creativecity.ca/conference-events/index.html.
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
AIBC registrants are invited to participate in a unique workshop presented by B.C. Recreation and Parks Association and Green Communities Canada as part of the Canadian Walking Master Class 2009. A team of world walking leaders and local experts will host this one-day session in Metro Vancouver. Participants will learn about current practice internationally, nationally and locally, and participate in an examination of walking environments in Metro Vancouver. This workshop will be of benefit to professionals from a diversity of disciplines including architecture, planning, engineering, health, recreation, policing, education, tourism, business and community development. To find out more and to register, go to http://www.physicalactivitystrategy.ca/index.php/beat/events/
Mike Harcourt will speak on Working Towards a Sustainable Future” on June 2, 7:00 p.m. at Evergreen Cultural Centre, Coquitlam. For more information, go to http://www.coquitlam.ca/Residents/Recreation+and+Community/Coquitlam+Leadership+Speaker+Series.htm.
The University Women's Club of Vancouver - Hycroft is holding an open house on Tuesday, June 9 at 5:30 p.m. This event will highlight Hycroft, a magnificent Italianate mansion built in 1909 at a cost of $10,000. Hycroft was constructed of concrete with 30 rooms on three floors, 13 bathrooms, a magnificent ballroom, a mirrored bar, and a wine cellar able to hold 2000 bottles. Thomas Hooper, the original architect, incorporated into the house many elements of classical Renaissance style along with some beaux-arts details. Charles Marega did the ornamental plaster-work on the ceiling and the friezes in the drawing room. Many other highlights will be featured as part of the house tour. To register, please contact Administrative Assistant Rosie On by phone (604-731- 4661) or e-mail (rosie@uwcvancouver.ca). Additional information is available online at www.uwcvancouver.ca.
The Vancouver Art Gallery is pleased to present an exhibition by renowned German photographer Andreas Gursky. The VAG will be the only North American museum to present Andreas Gursky: Werke/Works 80-08, the largest and most comprehensive exhibition of his remarkable career. Gursky’s photographs are celebrated as some of the most compelling images of our modern world, emphasizing the individual human’s insignificance relative to the built and natural environment. This 130-work exhibition will be on view from May 30 to September 20, 2009.
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. The deadline for early bird registration is May 1. 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.
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
Recommendations are now being accepted for the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. This awards program, established in 1977 by His Highness the Aga Khan, recognizes architectural excellence that encompass contemporary design, social housing, community improvement and development, restoration, re-use, and area conservation, as well as landscaping and environmental issues. The award embraces all types of building projects that affect today’s environments, ranging from modest small-scale interventions to major complexes and urban or regional design. Recommendations for nomination may include initiatives for housing, community and neighbourhood projects, and those that focus on urban areas and issues. Projects may also address infrastructure, transportation, industry, offices and commercial facilities, and educational and health facilities. Eligible projects must be designed for or used by Muslim communities, in part or in whole, wherever they are located. Submissions are especially encouraged in three under-represented categories: rural development, industry and places of work, and public spaces (small and large). This award cycle will focus on projects completed during the six-year period from 2003 through 2008. Eligible projects must have been completed and in use for at least one full year between January 1, 2003 and December 31, 2008. Projects that are not yet fully completed – such as urban design, area conservation, and community upgrading schemes – are also eligible so long as a tangible portion has been completed and the potential success of the project can be demonstrated.” Architects and other project personnel may submit their own projects for consideration. This is an international program; individuals everywhere are encouraged to submit recommendations. For detailed information, visit http://www.akdn.org/akaa.asp.
By Robert Everett-Green, The Globe and Mail
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
This is a day of beginnings and endings for l'Orchestre symphonique de Montréal, which will play its final concert of the season just hours after Quebec's ministry of culture unveils an architect's model of a $110-million symphony hall planned for a narrow site adjacent to Place des Arts in downtown Montreal. Three years after Quebec Premier Jean Charest pledged that his government would build a concert home for the OSM on the 15,000-square metre plot of land on the Centre's northeast corner, the Premier will present a scale model of Toronto architect Jack Diamond's design for a 1,900-seat, shoebox-shaped hall. More…
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