If you have any trouble viewing this page please click here

The 2009 BUILDEX Vancouver Conference & Exposition is now accepting early bird registration. AIBC registrants who sign up before January 29 will be entitled to free admission to the tradeshow and reduced rates for seminars. More...


January 16, 2009

AIBC Happenings

Member Renewals

New Legislation Workshops

AIBC Volunteer Recognition 2008-2009

In Passing: Stephen Slinn P.Eng

February 2009 Oral Reviews

City of Vancouver: Regulatory Review Survey

Industry News

New Provisions for Mid-rise Wood-frame Residential Construction

Changes to Vancouver Development Permits

Greenhouse Gas Initiative

New Assisted Living and Residential Care Resource

Consultation Opportunity: Construction Management Contracts

Homeowners Protection Office (HPO): New Home Registry

Exemplary Waste Diversion Projects Wanted

Vancouver Budget Consultations

Economic Summits

Where’s The Square?

Upcoming Events

Risk Management Workshop

Final Call for Papers: 2009 SSAC Conference

Digital Design Tournament

Alberta Consultant Selection Process Seminars

IDSWest

Kwantlen Polytechnic University Design Students' Grad Showcase

Building Sustainable Communities

BC Real Estate Convention

Awards

Final Call: Workplace Conservation Leadership Award

BC Wood WORKS!

City of Vancouver Heritage Awards

Upcoming AIBC Courses

Course Profile: BEEP Module I

Complete 2009 AIBC Course Listings

Courses by Registered Providers

BC Wood Specialties Group

AIBC Vancouver Island Chapter Meeting

Cascadia Region Green Building Council

Simon Fraser University City Program

MMPI Canada

Construction Specifications Canada

Light House Sustainable Building Centre

APEGBC Professional Development Seminars

University of Victoria Cultural Resource Management Program

Pacific Business and Law Institute (PBLI)

AIBC Gallery

Current Exhibit: David Marshall Sculptures

Media Scan

Bridge Called 'Lightning Rod'

AIA Develops Plan to Stimulate Economy and Create 1.6 Million Jobs in Building Sector

Looking Around the Corner and Seeing a Future

Simple Designs to Heal a City's Wounded Heart

Member Benefits

Smartweb Canada


» Member Renewals

A reminder to all registrants that the 2009 annual fee is due by February 1, 2009.

Please complete the forms provided in the 2009 Renewal Notice, which was mailed out in December. If you have not received the notice, or have questions about your registration, please contact Licensing Coordinator Kim Underwood, or Registration Coordinator Roisin O'Neill. The AIBC accepts payments by VISA, MasterCard, money order, or cheque drawn in Canadian funds from a Canadian bank. Fees may also be paid in person by debit card or cash at the AIBC office. Payments by phone will not be accepted.


» New Legislation Workshops

Please reserve the following dates and times for a series of information workshops on the proposed new Architectural Professions Act.

February 9 · March 9 · April 14 2009

4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
AIBC Offices
#100 – 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver

Each of these progressive sessions will focus on specific aspects of the proposed new legislation. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions and share comments.

All registrants are encouraged to attend each session in order to better understand what is being proposed and its impact on both practitioners and their profession, as well as to provide feedback to AIBC Council as it continues to draft new legislation for government’s consideration.

These workshops are part of AIBC Council’s commitment to ongoing consultation on this important initiative. There will also be a full-day Saturday session (May 9) at this year’s annual conference. Additional meetings, including regional presentations, are in the planning stage.

Please confirm your attendance for each of these workshops at communications@aibc.ca. We look forward to seeing you there.

» AIBC Volunteer Recognition 2008-2009

Nominations are now being accepted for the AIBC’s annual Volunteer Recognition Awards. There are three awards:

  • AIBC Honorary Membership - for significant and outstanding contributions by a non-registrant to increasing the awareness and appreciation of architecture. Click here for the nomination form.
  • AIBC Special Certificate of Recognition - for recent and general volunteer contributions demonstrating expertise and leadership in specific initiatives for the benefit or enhancement of the practice and profession of architecture by an individual registrant or firm. Click here for the nomination form.
  • The Barbara Dalrymple Memorial Award for Community Service - in recognition of lifetime or exceptional contributions by an individual registrant or firm. Click here for the nomination form.

The deadline for nominations is March 18, 2009.

Carla Brown-John
Director – Administration & Human Resources

» In Passing: Stephen Slinn P.Eng

Stephen Slinn passed away on January 5, 2009 at the age of 84. He is survived by his wife Sheila, daughters Sara, Mary and Teresa, and son John.

Stephen was an accomplished mechanical engineer who was well-known and respected in the architectural community, having served as a sessional lecturer at the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture from 1962 through 1985. There will be no service by request. Those wishing to share their memories of Stephen are invited to visit www.mem.com.

» February 2009 Oral Reviews

The next Oral Review session will be held on February 18 and 19, 2009. The application form is now available to download from the AIBC website. 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 Intern Architect Committee will be hosting an Oral Review Preparation Workshop on Wednesday, January, 28, 2009, 6:00 - 8:00 pm at the AIBC offices. Those candidates planning on take part in this round of Oral Reviews are invited.

» City of Vancouver: Regulatory Review Survey

The AIBC is pleased contribute to a consultation group brought together by the City of Vancouver’s Development Services Department as part of a regulatory review aimed at streamlining, updating and, where possible, eliminating outdated and/or conflicting local regulations. This includes the city’s Zoning & Development By-law, Official Development Plan By-laws, and Land Use Development Policies and Guidelines. The city’s permit processing is also under review.

AIBC members and associates are encouraged to contribute to the review process by completing a short survey. Note; in order to make it easier for you to share your concerns and ideas, an online version of the survey is now available. This is your chance to identify the regulations and processes that you find most difficult or unreasonable. Situational examples are invited. This is one of those rare opportunities for the profession to be heard, and to influence the regulatory process with which we deal on a daily basis. I hope that you will take a few minutes out of your day to complete the survey. The deadline is February 1, 2009.

To access the online survey, click here. To access the hard copy version, click here.

Michael A. Ernest MAIBC
Director of Professional Practice

» New Provisions for Mid-rise Wood-frame Residential Construction

The provincial government has announced new BC Building Code provisions that increase the maximum allowable building height for mid-rise wood-frame residential construction from four to six storeys. These new code provisions will take effect on April 6. An online public consultation on these changes closed on December 15, 2008. In finalizing the changes to the new code requirements, the province considered feedback received from various building industry stakeholders, including a detailed submission from the AIBC which identified several areas of concern, most notably respecting implementation strategy, timing and prerequisites. The AIBC will be reviewing and reporting on the final code provisions in light of the concerns previously identified. To view the new BC Building Code provisions, go to http://www.housing.gov.bc.ca/building/wood_frame/

Michael A. Ernest MAIBC
Director of Professional Practice

» Changes to Vancouver Development Permits

As of February 1, 2009, the wording for City of Vancouver Development Permit Conditions related to the provision of off-street parking, loading and bicycle spaces, as well as the provision of landscaping, will be amended. From that date, these requirements must be provided before issuance of required occupancy permits – there will no longer be a six-month grace period. Applicants for an occupancy permit must now demonstrate that spaces have been provided for parking, loading and bicycles, along with any required site landscaping, prior to the issuance of the permit. Where an applicant is unable to complete the landscaping requirements prior to final occupancy approval, the city may permit the work to be delayed provided the applicant submits a letter of credit guaranteeing the landscaping will be provided by an agreed-upon date. Note: developments permits issued prior to February 1 and containing the previous grace period wording will continue to be honoured at time of occupancy. For additional information, please contact Bill Boons, Assistant Director – Development Services, by phone (604-873-7678) or e-mail (bill.boons@vancouver.ca).

» Greenhouse Gas Initiative

The Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) and BC Hydro have launched a joint effort to improve the design, construction and operation of buildings. The intent is to help reduce the greenhouse gas emissions of buildings in British Columbia through energy conservation. “Buildings account for 30 per cent of Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions. There’s an opportunity to dramatically reduce these levels by improving the way we design, build, operate and occupy our buildings,” says Thomas Mueller, President and CEO of the CaGBC. “The key is a cross-sector commitment and collaboration.” The two organizations will work together to: develop customer-focused programs for energy conservation for buildings; increase the number and skill level of industry professionals focused on energy efficiency through joint training programs; create demonstration projects featuring sustainable communities and energy infrastructure; and look for opportunities to promote the LEED® green building rating system in conjunction with Power Smart. For more information, visit www.cagbc.org.

» New Assisted Living and Residential Care Resource

The Ministry of Healthy Living and Sport is please to announce the availability of a new publication, Assisted Living and Residential Care Fire and Life Safety. Appreciation goes to Scott Gordon MAIBC, who participated as a member of the advisory committee responsible for developing the resource. The intent of the publication is to provide insight regarding the requirements that apply to community care facilities and assisted living residences, as well as the roles and responsibilities of the various groups involved in their development, operation and regulation. It is available for download at http://www.health.gov.bc.ca/ccf/publications/index.html.

» Consultation Opportunity: Construction Management Contracts

Notwithstanding the increasing usage of certain forms of construction management delivery processes for both public and private sector projects of varying size, the fact remains that there is no industry-standard form of contract in place. This can, and does, lead to confusion, uncertainty, and incompatibility respecting a project’s complete suite of contracts. The AIBC is pleased to advise that the Canadian Construction Documents Committee (CCDC) has produced “consultation drafts” for two proposed industry-standard agreements in response to that gap and with express priority from our industry. Draft document CCDC- 5A (whereby the CM acts as the owner’s representative in a consulting role, sometimes referred to as CM-as-agent) and draft document CCDC-5B (whereby the CM acts as a contractor, providing work in addition to services, sometimes referred to as CM-at-risk) are now available for viewing and feedback.

As an active member of and contributor to the Public Construction Council of British Columbia and the CCDC, the AIBC encourages architects to review and comment upon these two consultation drafts. Please visit the AIBC web site (see ‘quick links’ at www.aibc.ca) to view the documents, then forward your comments to AIBC Coordinator of Professional Practice Erica Holt at eholt@aibc.ca no later than January 13, 2009. This will allow us to submit a comprehensive, coordinated response. The AIBC Contracts Committee, chaired by Monica Baillie MAIBC, along with our Practice Board, will also be engaged in this effort.

Michael A. Ernest MAIBC
Director of Professional Practice

» HPO New Home Registry

The Homeowner Protection Office (HPO), a provincial crown corporation responsible for licensing residential builders in and administering Owner Builder Authorizations in British Columbia, is pleased to launch its New Homes Registry. This online registry is a free resource for homebuyers, realtors, lawyers, local governments and others interested in quickly checking the status of a new home or new homes under construction. This convenient registry can be used to determine if a project has a policy of home warranty insurance policy or an exemption, including whether or not the home is permitted to be offered for sale. The registry includes single detached homes and multi-unit homes including duplexes. Visit the Homebuyers section of the HPO website at www.hpo.bc.ca.

» Exemplary Waste Diversion Projects Wanted

As part of Buildex Vancouver 2009 this coming February, Metro Vancouver’s BuildSmart program is preparing a seminar on the topic of waste reduction initiatives on construction and renovation sites. The purpose is to highlight exemplary waste reduction initiatives on construction projects by profiling two local projects that have achieved high waste diversion rates. The format of the session will be a panel discussion involving the building owner, architect, general contractors and waste hauler. AIBC members are invited to submit projects fitting this description to be profiled at the conference. It can be either a Metro Vancouver commercial construction or renovation project, ongoing or completed, that has achieved a waste diversion rate of at least 70% and targeting the recycling of all Metro Vancouver materials banned from disposal (visit http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solidwaste/disposal/Pages/bannedmaterials.aspx).

For further information or to make a submission, contact:

Valliant Tang
Project Engineer - Sustainable Business Services Division
Metro Vancouver's Policy and Planning Department
Phone: (778) 452-2616
E-mail: vaillant.tang@metrovancouver.org

» Vancouver Operating Budget Consultations

Each year, the City of Vancouver consults residents and businesses about important decisions. If you are interested in participating in the city’s 2009 Operating Budget consultation, please register on the City of Vancouver website here. Those who sign up will be registering for the budget consultation only, and any private information requested will only be used for contact purposes. For additional information regarding the city’s EcoDensity Charter and Initial Actions, please visit the EcoDensity website at www.vancouver.ca/ecodensity.

» Economic Summits

Those interested are invited to attend the Northern Economic Summit (January 22-23, 2009) and/or the British Columbia Economic Summit (February 3-4, 2009). These two forums will bring together business, government and community leaders to consider the choices, challenges and potential of the B.C. economy. A slate of prominent speakers will join Premier Gordon Campbell and provincial cabinet ministers at each two-day summit, providing a thoughtful interactive forum aimed at shaping the economic future of the province. For information on the Northern Economic Summit in Prince George, visit http://www.regonline.ca/Checkin.asp?EventId=679406. For details on the British Columbia Economic Summit at the Sheraton Wall Centre in Vancouver, go to http://www.regonline.ca/Checkin.asp?EventId=679459.


» Where’s The Square?

Public squares form the heart of many great cities around the world. When well-designed, they provide a central location for accessible, year-round activity. They are engines of cultural and local economy, as well as the spatial realization of democratic principles. Vancouver has a number of public squares scattered throughout the city but is missing the type of “grand public square” that could – and should - act as a centre point for civic life. With that in mind, the Vancouver Public Space Network has launched a public competition aimed at generating ideas about where such a square might be located in the city, and what it might look like. The official design brief and evaluation criteria was posted on November 15 with a submission deadline of March 15, 2009. A speaker series, panel discussions and public forums will be held during that time period. Note: This will be a competition for the best ideas, not necessarily the best drawings. For more information, visit http://vancouverpublicspace.ca/index.php/campaigns/urbandesign/index.php?page=wts
or e-mail info@vancouverpublicspace.ca.

» Risk Management Workshop

The University of British Columbia and the British Columbia Construction Roundtable are co-sponsoring a Risk Management Workshop for Capital Facilities.

The workshop is in response to the growing complexity of today’s capital facilities as well as the increasing array of procurement modes. It will focus on risk identification, quantification (likelihood and impacts), and risk response or mitigation. Unique to this workshop is a hands-on risk identification session in which attendees will develop a risk profile for an elevated transit guideway case study project. Also featured will be the viewpoints of seasoned professionals on cost, legal and insurance matters, including a 20-year+ risk management story line of the Confederation Bridge. The full-day workshop is suitable to anyone in the public or private sectors who is charged with identifying project risks, assessing their relative importance, and allocating them to the most appropriate project participant, including project management personnel, specialty consultants and contractors. It takes place March 19-20, 2009 at the University Golf Club in Vancouver. The registration fee is $995, with an early bird rate of $895 prior to February 14. Register online at http://www.bccr.net/upcoming_events.html. For information, contact Jeannie Bates at jeannie_bates@telus.net.

» Final Call for Papers: 2009 SSAC Conference

January 31, 2009 is the deadline for presentation paper submissions for the Society for the Study of Architecture in Canada’s 2009 Annual Conference, May 20-24 at Ryerson University in Toronto. This annual event provides a forum for the exchange of ideas and knowledge by members from all regions of the country and from the range of disciplines that make up the SSAC’s membership. The theme of this year’s conference is “From Theory into Practice: thinking critically about architecture, history and theory”. Ten sessions are planned, including an open session on current research, and already conference organizers have received a number of very interesting proposals for sessions and panels. Please consider submitting a paper proposal or abstract, or encourage a colleague, student, friend or member of the community whose work would be of interest to the society to participate. Details of the selected sessions can be found on the SSAC website at http://www.canada-architecture.org. Conference registration and details of events and activities will be available after March 1, 2009. For further information, please contact George Thomas Kapelos or Sharon Vattay, 2009 SSAC Conference Co-Chairs, at gkapelos@ryerson.ca or SSAC2009@ryerson.ca


» Digital Design Tournament

The entry deadline for the Cut&Paste 2009 Digital Design Tournament is fast approaching. North American designers have only until January 23, 2009 to submit their work. The tournament kicks off a 16-city tour in February. The event’s unique design-as-spectator-sport approach will involve fast-paced, 15-minute rounds playing out on massive screens in the competition hall. A grand prize winner will be chosen in each category in each competition city, with the recipient earning an expenses-paid trip to New York City to compete in the Global Championships in June. For more information or to enter, go to www.cutandpaste.com.

» Alberta Consultant Selection Process Seminars

Alberta Infrastructure, in collaborative with the Alberta Association of Architects and the Consulting Engineers of Alberta, has been working on a Trade, Investment and Labour Mobility Agreement (TILMA) compliant Architecture and Engineering consultant services selection process. This includes recommendations to ensure the process is aligned with the process in British Columbia. B.C. architects and firms who may be affected by the proposed new process are invited to attend either of two upcoming breakfast sessions. These orientation sessions will:

  • Update consultants providing A&E services on TILMA compliance requirements;
  • Outline the process and collaborative participation of AAA and CEA representatives in the preparation of the Alberta Infrastructure A&E consultant selection process;
  • Provide an overview of the proposed vendor registry system including its purpose and use by Alberta Infrastructure and the expected roles and responsibilities of consultants for information accuracy and updates;
  • Highlight the key elements of the A&E consultant selection process;
  • Solicit questions of clarity on the proposal for the A&E services consultant selection process from those attending the session; and
  • Describe ongoing collaborative roles of the AAA and CEA in communicating opportunities and evaluation of the process and system.

Calgary:     Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Radisson Hotel Calgary Airport, 2120 – 16 Avenue NE
7:00 - 10:00 a.m.

Edmonton:  Thursday, January 15, 2009

Greenwood Inn & Suites, 4485 Gateway Boulevard
7:00 - 10:00 a.m.

Those wishing to attend are asked to register in advance by visiting http://www.e-officepro.com/admin/contentx/default.cfm?PageId=7630.

» Interior Design Show West (IDSWest)

Planning is already underway for the next Interior Design Show West, September 17 - 20, 2009 at the Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre. As with the recently-concluded edition, this event will brings a host of new feature opportunities to architects, designers, suppliers, manufacturers and builders. IDSWest is more than just a trade show. It is a design experience featuring never-before-seen, provocative exhibits and installations highlighting the work of Canadian and International designers. 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, prebuilt structures.
  • Stories Behind Design – showcasing the lesser known stories that help shape many of the designs on display.

Contact Jason Heard (jheard@mmart.com) to learn more about how you can get involved.

» Kwantlen Polytechnic University Design Students' Grad Showcase

Save the date for the 2009 Kwantlen Polytechnic University Design Students' Grad Showcase: April 22, 2009 in the AIBC Gallery. For the complete invitation, click here.

» Building Sustainable Communities

The Fresh Outlook Foundation is hosting its third annual Building SustainAble Communities conference from February 24 to 26, 2009 at Kelowna's Delta Grand Okanagan Resort. More than 100 speakers from the public, private, non-profit and academic sectors will address a range of topics including sustainable agriculture, sustainable business, and community sustainability. To register online, click here. For more information, go to www.freshoutlookfoundation.org.

» B.C. Real Estate Convention

The 5th B.C. Real Estate Convention 2009 will take place February 26-27 at the Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre. This annual event is a unique Western Canada tradeshow created for the professionals and public alike who are interested or engaged in investing in residential or commercial real estate in British Columbia. It brings together a range of different professionals, organizations, associations, and businesses involved in the real estate industry. For interested exhibitors, display booths are sold on a first come-first serve basis. For additional up-to-date information, please visit http://www.bcrealestateconvention.com/.

» Final Call: Workplace Conservation Leadership Award

BC Hydro is still accepting nominations for the Workplace Conservation Leadership Award. This award is part of the annual Power Smart Excellence Awards, which recognize BC Hydro business customers and partners for their commitment to energy management and conservation. Individuals instrumental in developing and implementing an employee-based energy conservation plan within an organization are eligible for recognition. Simply submit a nomination form by January 23, 2009. Visit bchydro.com/awards to find out more.

» BC Wood WORKS!

Student Catapult Design Competition

BC Wood WORKS! is accepting entries for its third annual Western Canadian Wood Catapult Competition. This unique event, open to registered college and university students, will be held on March 28, 2009 at the University of British Columbia’s Whit-Matthews Field. The purpose of the competition is to challenge students to design and build a wood siege engine capable of accurately hitting targets at 20, 30 and 50 meters using a cement ball. Teams consisting of students and one faculty member are required to submit a short report on their catapult design prior to the competition. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three teams as well as prizes for Best Presentation, Maximum Distance and Aesthetics/Spirit. The deadline for registration is January 16, 2009. For more information and to register, visit http://www.wood-works.org/BC%20Wood%20WORKS/Competitions/?Language=EN or contact Wood Catapult Competition Coordinator Linda Shauer (lshauer@wood-works.ca)


2009 Wood Design Awards

Wood WORKS! BC, a project of the Canadian Wood Council, is now accepting nominations for the 2009 Wood Design Awards. This competition honours excellence in wood-based projects and recognize the people and organizations that are pioneering and presenting the use of wood in British Columbia. Nominated projects will showcase the special qualities of wood such as strength, beauty, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. The award categories include Interior Wood Beauty – Residential; Residential’ Green Building; Multi-unit Residential; Commercial; Institutional Wood Design; Western Red Cedar Award – Residential; Western Red Cedar Award – Non- residential; Industry Leader; Architect; Engineer; Wood Champion; and a new category for Interior Wood Beauty – Commercial. The deadline for submissions is Friday, February 6, 2008. Projects commissioned after January 2006 will be accepted. For additional information and nomination forms, visit http://www.wood-works.org/BC%20Wood%20WORKS/BC%20Gala/?Language=EN or contact Event Coordinator Lorna Malone by e-mail (lmalone@wood-works.ca) or phone (1-877-929-9663, ext 4).

» Call for Nominations: 2009 City of Vancouver Heritage Awards

The City of Vancouver is currently accepting nominations for its annual Heritage Awards, which recognize individuals and organizations that have furthered the goal of heritage conservation in the city. The deadline for nominations is Friday, January 23, 2009 at 4:00 p.m. More information, including submission requirements and nomination forms, is available at: www.vancouver.ca/heritage or by calling Bonnie Eng at (604) 873-7141.

» BEEP Module I:

Building Science and the Building Envelope (Available Online)

Topics for Module I include:

  • The Outdoor and Indoor Environment
  • Conditions Within the Envelope
  • Materials and Their Moisture Content
  • Rain Penetration
  • Pressure Differences Due to Wind
  • Predicting Building Envelope Performance

For more information, please contact Professional Development Coordinator Catherine Bolter at cbolter@aibc.ca or 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

» BC Wood Specialties Group

Wine Cellar Seminar

The BC Wood Specialties Group invites AIBC registrants to attend an informative seminar on British Columbia’s value-added wood industry. It will focus on “How to Specify a Wine Cellar”, including:

  • How to build a wine cellar envelope
  • Insulation and r-values
  • Finishing products
  • Flooring types
  • Wine cellar lighting and cooling
  • Best BC wood species for wine cellar construction
  • Why “green” products are best suited to wine cellars

The event will be hosted by BC Wood and Vin de Garde Cellar Systems, and will include a wine-and-cheese reception. It takes place Wednesday, January 28, 2009, 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. at the Vin de Garde Wine Cellar Systems Showroom, Design Centre & Wine Tasting Room, 112 West 2nd Avenue, Vancouver. There is no charge for this event. However, space is limited so please r.s.v.p. in advance to Roy Manion at rmanion@bcwood.com.

1 Core LU

» AIBC Vancouver Island Chapter Meeting

The next meeting of the AIBC’s Vancouver Island Chapter takes place Wednesday, February 4, 2009 from 12:00 noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Ambrosia Centre, 638 Fisgard Street in Victoria. The guest speakers will be Barry Milner, Marketing Director, and Stuart Yanow, LEED® accredited Senior Engineer and Certified Geoexchange Designer (IGSHPA) with GeoTility Systems. They will provide an extensive PowerPoint presentation on geoexchange (geothermal heating and cooling) technology that will cover include:

  • variations on the design and installation of water-to-air and water-to-water heat pump configurations
  • mechanical system design features and applications
  • economic analysis
  • payback
  • return on investment
  • value added attachment
  • residential and commercial case studies
  • environmental impact analysis
  • utility service model applications – TerraSource, Corix and Terasen

There is no charge for this event. However, for catering purposes please confirm your attendance by February 2 to jmcoe@shaw.ca.

1.5 Core LUs


» Cascadia Region Green Building Council

Green Rehabilitation & Sustainability Forum

Participants will attend a two-day forum / workshop where they will examine the current state of the province for heritage and green buildings and sustainable communities in British Columbia in an effort to contribute to the green building and heritage/existing building initiatives (e.g. LEED NC for New Construction and Major Renovation, LEED EBOM for Existing Buildings Operations and Maintenance, LEED CI for Commercial Interiors, the Building Codes and the Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada). Participants will receive 14 AIBC core credits for this workshop.

Monday & Tuesday, January 19-20, 8:30am-5:00pm
Segal Graduate School of Business, 500 Granville St, Vancouver

For more information, or to register, please visit http://www.cascadiagbc.org/events/2008/september/green-rehabilitation-and-sustainability-forum-vancouver

14 Core LUs


LEED Canada Workshop NC 1.1

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 intensive, one-day workshop provides a technical overview of the LEED Canada-NC 1.1. Gain the knowledge needed to enhance project performance, achieve certification and prepare for the LEED Canada Professional Accreditation Exam.

Tuesday, February 3, 8:30am-5:00pm
SFU Harbour Centre, 515 W. Hastings St, Vancouver

For more information, or to register, please click here.

7.5 Core LUs

» Simon Fraser University City Program

Leading Edge Solutions to House Everyone

Many people are increasingly unable to afford to live in the community where they work. This course explores how to increase housing density and affordability, and focuses on particular challenges such as medium to high-density housing for families with children, existing and emerging housing alternatives, and a range of both market and non-market strategies to achieve results on the ground. There will be walking tours of best practices in existing neighbourhoods and case studies for greenfield, greyfield and brownfield sites.

February 13-14, 2009, 9am-5:30 pm
For more information, or to register, please visit http://www.sfu.ca/city/course2popup.htm

14 Non-Core LUs

Making Change Happen – Building Commitment to Create Sustainability

This course will enhance your capacity as an effective sustainability champion, whether newcomer, social-change enthusiast or old-hand sustainability change agent. Instructors: Vanessa Timmer and Dagmar Timmer. Guest speakers include: Amanda Carr - The Ethical Funds Company; Ann McAfee; Bob Purdy - Fraser Basin Council; and Esther Speck - Mountain Equipment Co-op. For course details or to register, please visit http://www.sfu.ca/city/courses.htm. For a complete list of SFU City Program courses and free lectures, go to http://www.sfu.ca/city.

Friday and Saturday, January 23-24, 2009, 9:00 a.m. -5:30 p.m.
SFU Harbour Centre, Vancouver
Fee: $600

7 Non-core LUs

» MMPI Canada

Early Registration for 2009 BUILDEX Vancouver

The early bird registrations deadline for the 2009 BUILDEX Vancouver Conference & Exposition is Thursday, January 29. AIBC registrants who sign up before then will receive free admission to the BUILDEX tradeshow as well as reduced seminar rates. BUILDEX Vancouver is Western Canada’s largest conference and exhibition for real estate, property management, interior design, architecture, renovation and construction professionals. This event takes place February 11-12 at the Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre. It includes Design Northwest, the BC Construction Show and the Homebuilder & Renovator Expo. The conference portion will feature more than 45 sessions and 100 presenters. Workshops have been organized in three distinct seminar streams for construction, design, and property management. Program highlights include an keynote panel on “Architecture and Community Development -- Shaping our Communities for the Future”, moderated by AIBC President David Wilkinson MAIBC and including Alan Boniface MAIBC, Michael Heeney MAIBC, Norm Hotson MAIBC and Sean McEwen MAIBC. Bruce Haden MAIBC will present a case study on the award-winning Nk'Mip Desert Cultural Centre. There will also be an Interior Design Keynote Panel, moderated by Interior Designers Institute of British Columbia President Jim Toy, to discuss “Design for Change”. Explore the tradeshow floor for the latest products and services. An additional feature, the annual Industry Reception, takes place Wednesday, February 11, 5:00 – 6:30 p.m. and will bring together close to 600 professionals for prime networking opportunities. BUILDEX Vancouver is of interest to architects, designers, property managers, real estate professionals, building owners, contractors, builders, developers, and anyone else in the design and construction industry. For detailed information and to register, visit www.buildexvancouver.com.

Core and Non-Core LUs Available

» Construction Specifications Canada

Construction Contract Administration

This course is designed for those individuals involved in construction administration, including contract administrators, property managers, architects, engineers, interior designers, specification consultants, building authorities, and bonding and insurance agencies. It begins on January 12, 2009. To register, please fax in the registration form.

13 Core LUs

 

Technical Representative

The Technical Representative course (formerly CTR Level 2) will provide a better understanding of contract documents and bidding procedures, product representation, professionalism, and ethics. It will also afford a new depth of understanding and explanation of concepts beyond what was previously introduced. The course begins on January 12, 2009. To register, please fax in the registration form.

13 Core LUs

 

CSC January Breakfast Meeting

Topic: The Future of Transportation in Metro Vancouver or How to Spend $15 Billion

Presented by Gary Vlieg, M.Sc., P. Eng., Manager, Road and Infrastructure Planning. Translink is the agency responsible for planning, funding and building the road and transit network for Metro Vancouver. As one of the major gateways between Asia and North America, it is critical that the region’s transportation infrastructure maintains and enhances economic competitiveness on the world market. The recently announced Provincial Transit Plan, as well as provincial initiatives on Green House Gas reductions, have given an even greater impetus to the work that TransLink does. This presentation will cover current projects as well as discuss those on the horizon. This includes SkyTrain expansion, Rapid Bus BC, rehabilitation and expansion of Expo Line stations, Pattullo Bridge, the Roberts Bank Rail Corridor grade separations and the North Fraser Perimeter Road. For details or to register, please visit http://www.csc-vancouver.ca/meeting_schedule.htm.

1.5 Non-core LUs

 

» Lighthouse Sustainable Building Centre

Green Building Market Forum

This forum, for the fourth quarter of 2008, will focus on commercial real estate and responses to the economic downturn. Topics include the latest trends in demand for green real estate and high performance homes, commentary on emerging policy and legislation, updates on the most recent education and training opportunities relevant to your profession, and details on the hottest new products and emerging building-related technologies. The keynote speaker is Tom Douglas, Director - Leasing and Development for Discovery Parks Trust. Panel members will include: Norm Taylor, Assistant Vice President, Client Representation Group for Colliers International; Bill Tucker, Managing Partner of Omicron and past president of NAIOP; and Gordon Wylie, Director of Development with Ivanhoe Cambridge. These industry leaders will share insights and analysis of the latest realities facing the commercial real estate sector. Light House’s successful Market Insights program, now in its third year, is regularly attended by architects, builders, design consultants, developers, property managers, municipal and government staff, building owners, realtors, product manufacturers and suppliers, and representatives of industry associations. To register, please visit http://marketinsightsq42008.eventbrite.com, call (604) 682-5960 or e-mail amanda@sustainablebuildingcentre.com.

Tuesday, January 20, 2009, 7:30 - 11:00 a.m.
HSBC Hall, University of British Columbia Robson Square, 800 Robson Street, Vancouver
Cost: $62.50 ($42.50 for students and non-profits)

3 Non-core LUs

» APEGBC Professional Development Seminars

Time Management
Are you feeling caught between a clock and a hard place? We are now in the "value era", a hyper-competitive world where clients are demanding more from companies and, in turn, companies are demanding more from their people. This is a proven, practical and principle-based workshop in which the participants develop time management strategies and systems that are right for their personality types and job functions. It takes place February 5, 2009 in Victoria. For more information or to register, please visit http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/timemgmt_victoria_09.html.

Fee: $460.95

7 Non-core LUs

 

IStructE Examination Preparation Seminar & Workshop

This two-day session will provide an opportunity to learn the ins and outs of the IStructE examination, allowing participants to determine whether or not this is the route they wish to pursue. For those already signed up to challenge the exam, this seminar and workshop will provide insight into the contents as well as tips for success. It will be presented by past candidates who have successfully completed the exam. Sessions take place February 6 - 7, 2009 in Vancouver, BC. The fee for both seminar and workshop is $555.45; seminar or workshop only is $299.25. For more information or to register, please visit http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/istructe.html.

12.5 Non-core LUs

 

Introduction to Business Writing: The Importance of Written Words in Proposals

Learn to write clearly and concisely in a business context. Understand the key elements of a well-written proposal. This seminar is designed to help develop the confidence necessary to excel in ones proposal writing - writing that is both direct and proficient. It takes place February 10, 2009 in Vancouver. The session fee is $450.45. For more information or to register, please visit http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/intro_business_writing.html.

6 Non-core LUs

 

Advanced Business Writing: The Importance of Written Words in Proposals

Interested in learning to write a compelling proposal that clearly and concisely articulates the core benefits for a client? Curious to know what to look for in a Request for Proposals? Through this series of hands-on workshops, gain feedback on your writing and develop the confidence necessary for RFP success. The fee is $450.45. For the February 11 2009 workshop in Vancouver, register at http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/adv_business_writing.html. For the April 21, 2009 workshop in Burnaby, go to http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/adv_business_writing_bby.html.

6 Non-core LUs

 

Practical Intellectual Property Strategies

This seminar will give participants an overview of intellectual property concepts while explaining, comparing and contrasting legal protection for trade secrets, copyright, trademarks and patents. The session fee is $242.74. It takes place February 13, 2009 in Vancouver. You can also participate via webcast. For more information and to register, please visit http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/intellectual_property.html.

3.25 Non-core LUs

 

Expert Witness

At some point in your professional career you may be called upon to write an expert report or testify in a trial. Are you fully aware of what will be expected? This seminar will discuss the factors to consider before agreeing to deliver expert witness testimony, as well as the benefits and risks of doing so. It takes place February 26, 2009 in Vancouver. You can also participate via webcast. The session fee is $219.45. For more information, or to register, please visit http://www.apeg.bc.ca/prodev/events/expert_witness_dec08.html.

3 Non-core LUs

» University of Victoria Cultural Resource Management Program

Downtown Revitalization through Heritage Conservation, On-Campus Offering

Historic urban districts provide a valuable resource for sustainable urban and community renewal as well as economic and tourism development while contributing to our “sense of place.” Through an analysis of approaches to revitalization as well as case studies and applied site visits, participants will build their understanding of the issues facing Victoria’s historic downtown and neighbourhood commercial districts, and also develop innovative strategies that meet sustainable heritage conservation goals while realizing community and social benefits. This course runs from February 23 – 28, 2009. Please register by January 26, 2009 (late registrations will only be accepted if space permits). For detailed course information or to register, please visit http://www.uvcs.uvic.ca/crmp/courses/ha489a-downtown.aspx. For a complete list of upcoming courses offered through the University of Victoria’s Cultural Resource Management Program, please visit http://www.uvcs.uvic.ca/crmp/upcoming.aspx.

36 Non-core LUs


Resource Management

Defining the heritage value or significance of historic places and resource is the foundation on which any heritage conservation process is built. Determining Significance of Historic Resources is a distance learning course that begins with an exploration of the range of historical, aesthetic, social, and scientific values that establish the character-defining elements of historic resources. This includes buildings, structures, historic districts, and cultural landscapes. The course will address various methods of inventory and evaluation, from numerical scoring systems to systems that establish historical contexts of thematic studies, along with their roles in guiding subsequent conservation planning and decision-making. The course runs from January 12 to April 19, 2009. The registration deadline is December 10, 2008 (though late registrations may be accepted if space permits). For detailed course information and to register, go to http://www.uvcs.uvic.ca/crmp/courses/ha489c-2.aspx. For additional information on upcoming courses offered through the University of Victoria’s Cultural Resource Management Program, please visit http://www.uvcs.uvic.ca/crmp/upcoming.aspx.

36 Non-core LUs

» Pacific Business and Law Institute (PBLI)

Construction Contracts: Practical Guidelines to Prevent Costly Mistakes

In today’s market, there is no room for error in construction contracts. A small contractual oversight can end up costing a significant amount of money in litigation at a later stage. From identifying the critical issues in a construction contract to resolving construction disputes, you need to be informed and prepared. This event will provide you with current, practical advice for addressing challenges at all stages of the contractual process. It takes place on January 27, 2009, at the Renaissance Vancouver Hotel Harbourside, Vancouver. For more information or to register, please visit http://www.pbli.com/744/ or download the full brochure at http://pbli.com/conferences/conferences/744/documents/ConstructionBrochure.pdf

7 Core LUs

» Current Exhibit: David Marshall Sculptures

January 7 – February 19, 2009
AIBC Gallery: #100 – 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver

This exhibit features the work of Vancouver sculptor David Marshall (1928 – 2006). The installation consists of 17 of Marshall’s most meticulously crafted sculptures in stone, bronze and wood - including three bronzes never before displayed. Marshall’s remarkable legacy has received limited public exhibition and exposure. While largely unrecognized in his home country, his work has been exhibited and installed in Europe, Mexico and the United States. The exhibition will be held jointly with the launch of a new book, The Life and Art of David Marshall, by Monika Ullmann.

» Bridge Called 'Lightning Rod'

“Where's that confounded bridge?" - Led Zeppelin

By Bill Kaufmann, Calgary Sun
Friday, January 9, 2008

Ald. Joe Connelly is convinced it's a bridge that will long confound its supporters. Recently, his stint manning Salvation Army red kettles attracted far more than spare change. “Everyone who engaged me in conversation brought up the bridge - every one of them,” says Connelly. But surely the tempest over a $25-million pedestrian bridge over the Bow River west of Prince's Island won't extend beyond voters' limited attention span. More …

» AIA Develops Plan to Stimulate Economy and Create 1.6 Million Jobs in Building Sector

PR Newswire
Wednesday, January 14, 2009

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) semi-annual Consensus Construction Forecast projects an 11 percent decline in design and construction activity in 2009. To revitalize the building sector, which accounts for about one in every ten dollars of the United States GDP, the AIA developed the Rebuild and Renew Plan, which details its recommendations for the allocation of funds in President-elect Obama's economic recovery plan. The AIA is calling on the new administration and Congress to create policies that ensure these monies are spent on the planning, design and construction of energy efficient, sustainable buildings and healthy communities that are advantageous for both the environment and economy. If implemented correctly, the nearly $100 billion plan would create 1.6 million jobs throughout the design and construction industry. More …

» Looking Around the Corner and Seeing a Future

By James P. Cramer, DesignIntelligence
Friday, January 9, 2009

The tumultuous economy has us all on pins and needles. What’s next? Seven questions every firm needs to answer. What is the economy telling us? Are we heading further into a prolonged bad economic state? What are the short- and longer-term impacts on both an individual’s professional life and a firm’s prospects? More …

» Simple Designs to Heal a City's Wounded Heart

Low-rise buildings proposed for downtown sites follow a modest recipe

By John Bentley Mays, Globe and Mail
Friday, January 16, 2009

Of all the arts, architecture is the most public, and the one that exerts the most subtle, pervasive influence on the way we live our lives. It's an art that occasionally brings forth masterpieces. But making standout gems is not what architecture is finally about. Rather, it's about creating livable cities, doing infill and repair, fashioning good urban textures and attractive streets — the everyday contexts that sustain the multifarious business of living. More …


» SmartWeb Canada

SmartWeb Canada Inc. is proud to be the newest member of the Architectural Institute of British Columbia’s member benefit program. As a leading provider to Canadian businesses, SmartWeb Canada is eager to assist architecture firms and practitioners in B.C. to create a web marketing strategy that will allow you to establish and maintain a distinctive web presence, vital to success in today’s world of global competition. SmartWeb Canada Inc. is a leading website provider in Canada, specializing in do-it-yourself websites, customized website design, graphic and logo design, search engine optimization, and domain names services for small- to medium-sized businesses. Click here to visit the website and find out more about SmartWeb Canada.


Architectural Institute of British Columbia
100 - 440 Cambie Street
Vancouver, BC V6B 2N5
Tel: (604) 683-8588 toll free in BC 1-800-667-0753
Fax: (604) 683-8568 or toll free in BC 1-800-661-2955

info@aibc.ca
for staff contacts click here