In Passing: Nigel Page MAIBC

Nigel Page MAIBC passed away suddenly on January 21, 2010 at the age of 56. Born in London, England, Nigel began his architectural studies at the Architectural Association in London. He later moved to Canada and continued his studies at the University of British Columbia. For the past 30 years he practised in Vancouver, becoming an AIBC member in 1991. During that time he worked with such firms as Davidson Yuen, AA Robbins, Downs Archambault & Partners, InterPlan Architecture & Planning, Henriquez & Partners, and Paul Merrick Architects.

Nigel was known for his great sense of curiosity, and the delight and creativity that he brought to his love of architecture in addition to his many other varied interests. He is survived by sister Shelley (Billy), brother Jamie, and sons Johnny and Louis. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in Nigel’s memory may do so to the Western Canada Wilderness Committee (http://store.wildernesscommittee.org/Donate). Friends and colleagues are invited to share their respects and stories at a Celebration of the Life to be held on Monday, February 1 in the Hall of One Hundred Rivers at the Sun Yat-Sen Gardens, beginning at 5:30 p.m. This will be followed by a wake held at Nigel's home, 265 East 21st Avenue, Vancouver. All are welcome.

AIBC Council Nominations

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2010/11 AIBC Council. This is your opportunity to help shape the body responsible for the governance of the profession in this province. Your respective nomination form will soon arriving in the mail. All nominations must be received at the AIBC offices no later than 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 18, 2009. The election closes at the Annual Meeting on May 8, 2009.

Click on the following for the nomination forms:

• MAIBC
• Architectural Technologists
• Building Designer / Residential Designer
• Intern Architects
• Registered Interior Designer

Ministry Letter Disallowing AIBC Bylaw Proposals

The AIBC recently received a letter from the Honourable Moira Stilwell, Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development, offering the rationale for the ministry’s earlier decision to disallow the bylaw proposals brought forward by membership at the 2009 AIBC Annual Meeting. The proposed bylaws related to a requirement that AIBC Council publish to its membership any proposed changes to the Architects Act or enabling legislation, as well as carry out advance consultation with members who might be affected by any proposed new legislation. A summary of that rationale has been shared previously in eNews and on our web site. For those wishing to see the letter in its entirety, it is available online on the AIBC web site.

Questions Respecting Legislative Renewal

Recently, a letter with an accompanying legal opinion was sent to AIBC Council’s Lieutenant Governor appointees and circulated to a significant portion of the AIBC membership by a group of members. That correspondence raised several interesting questions about the legislative renewal process and its implications. It also endeavoured to convey information regarding the legal status of the institute’s legislative renewal efforts. AIBC Council subsequently responded to that letter (as well as the accompanying legal opinion), addressing the concerns expressed therein. In order to ensure that all members have the benefit of the institute’s response, including its own legal opinion, those responses are now available on the AIBC’s Legislative Renewal web page.

CES Audit

Starting next week, a random selection of members will be receiving letters calling for their participation in the Continuing Education Services audit for the seventh reporting period, which concluded on June 30, 2009. In keeping with AIBC Council policy, the AIBC is obligated to conduct an audit of self-reported submissions from up to 5% of its members after the conclusion of each reporting period. In turn, members are obliged to retain documentation of self-reported activities for one year beyond the end of the reporting period. Previously, the audit for the sixth reporting period revealed 100% compliance, confirming the high professional standards of AIBC members. Similar results are expected for this audit period. Should you have any questions regarding the audit process, please contact Director of Professional Service Maura Gatensby at mgatensby@aibc.ca.

AIBC Web Feature: Pram in the Hall

The AIBC is pleased to launch “Pram in the Hall”, an online feature developed by Stephanie Robb MAIBC that explores the impact of parenthood and family responsibilities on professional practice. Only 11% of architects registered in B.C. are women. This series of interviews with design professionals who are (or once were) also raising families reveals their personal experiences and lessons learned, and gets at the issue behind this disturbing trend. Web visitors are encouraged to share their own thoughts and feedback. Click here to go to Pram in the Hall.

2010 Annual Fees (Registrants and Firms)

Annual fees are due and payable on or before February 1, 2010. To pay fees online, simply go to http://aibc.memberpro.net and log on. Those registrants who have both a personal registration and a firm licence (certificate of practice) are reminded that you will need to access two different web pages.

• Click here for more information
• Click here to view Bulletin 01: 2010 Fees, Fines & Charges

To Be or Not to Be … In Good Standing

The Architects Act says that annual fees are payable on or before February 1 each year and that if a member, firm, licensee or associate does not pay those fees on or before February 1, they cease to be “in good standing”.

What exactly does it mean to be “not in good standing”?

• Click here for more information
• Click here to view Bulletin 01: 2010 Fees, Fines & Charges

Council Responses to 2009 Motions-from-the-floor

At its January 2010 meeting, AIBC Council completed its review and approved its responses to a series of four motions-from-the-floor (MFTF) that were supported at the 2009 Annual Meeting (the motions can be found in the draft June 27 Minutes of the Annual Meeting, under item 6.0). While noting that that any such motions are advisory and non-binding to Council, and that the specific motions had some specific wording challenges, Council reiterated its commitment to giving them due consideration with particular attention to the intents behind them. Council's responses are as follows:

Response to MFTF 6.1
Council policy now supports outcomes-based competency evaluation as one method of determining an individual’s capacity to meet registration criteria, and is actively doing that for candidates seeking to become architects.

Council is sensitive to concerns of some architects about possible/perceived effects of an expanded regulatory sphere under a revised Architects Act. Council respects these concerns.  Council is of the opinion that the public interest will be best served if/when buildings of size/typology that currently can be designed and constructed under direction of people without proven competency and methods of accountability require competent and accountable professionals to design and review their construction. Future membership categories, if any, will be defined and limited by stringent competency standards commensurate with the complexity of work required under any scope of practice granted to that membership category.

Council is committed to an ongoing strategy of principled engagement/consultation with the membership; is not contemplating legislation-specific drafting in 2010; but remains open to the prospect of the Architects Act applying to a broader scope of building sizes/types/complexities than is now the case.

Response to MFTF 6.2
Prior drafts of a new statute are set aside. The provincial government is interested in receiving only essential components/directions/needs developed by the AIBC and Council arising from a demonstrated consultation process.

That process will elicit input, dialogue and support before any related submission to government, which will be shared with the membership.

Response to MFTF 6.3
The AIBC has a broad statutory mandate. Primarily a regulatory body, it also has the duty and capacity (under legislation and bylaws) to deliver programs and services to support the public interest by strengthening the profession (e.g.) in matters of practice, professional development and public/industry outreach and collaboration. 

The AIBC is, however, limited (in mandate, resources and priority attention) in the nature and extent to which it should/can address matters of advocacy purely on behalf of architects.

In order to address any advocacy gap, there already exist these two avenues:

• Architectural Foundation of BC (AFBC)
• Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC)

Members are encouraged to join one or more of the abovementioned groups. They both are necessarily at arms-length from, but are on amicable terms with, the AIBC. The AFBC is already an “independent society” within our profession. The RAIC recently established a BC chapter.

Council believes it is beyond the scope of the Architects Act to establish a committee to explore this avenue.

Response to MFTF 6.4
Council recognizes and acknowledges members’ interests in a process that is open, inclusive and engages the full range of stakeholder input and involvement.

To that end, Council has begun an engagement process, key components of which include:

• Face-to-face consultation
• Open forums with principled discussion
• Sharing clear information
• Canvassing informed thought and opinion
• Surveying/polling feedback (note: referendum is not available under the Act)

Council will listen carefully and utilize stakeholder feedback to inform its future directions and decisions consistent with its governance of the institute in the public interest. Council will continue forward on this basis.

Document 8C

We are pleased to announce that a new contract is now available: ‘AIBC Document 8C - 2010 Standard Short Form Contract Between Client and Consultant’. It supersedes ‘AIBC Document 8 Standard Short Form Agreement Between Client and Architect’. The new contract has been developed by the AIBC Contracts Committee (chaired by Monica Baillie MAIBC) in cooperation with, and endorsed by, the Consulting Engineers of BC.  It is designed to be used by both architects and professional engineers in situations where the more comprehensive forms of agreement are not required. It is also suitable for use as a stand-alone contract for small, simple projects or limited scopes of service, or as an interim agreement, permitting professional services to commence while a more appropriate and complete contract is being prepared.

A reminder to all that a written agreement is a requirement per Bylaw 28.0. Practitioners are encouraged to review this new client-consultant contract and its accompanying guide, as well as Bulletin 67, ‘Terms of Engagement’, which addresses obligations regarding client-architect agreements.

Click here to open AIBC Document 8C (with Guide)

Click here to open Bulletin 67

The contract is being delivered by means of an interactive .pdf form which is available for download at no charge. When the contract is ready for use with a client, an AIBC Authorization Seal is to be affixed (to each copy) without which it is not valid. The AIBC Authorization Seals are available for architects and professional engineers from the AIBC. They can be purchased in person or via mail for $10 each. Please contact the AIBC front desk to obtain your order form.

Maura Gatensby MAIBC
Director of Professional Services
mgatensby@aibc.ca

2009-2010 AIBC Volunteer Recognition Awards

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

• AIBC Honorary Membership - for significant and outstanding contributions by a non-registrant towards increasing 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.

You are encouraged to submit the names of individuals you believe are deserving of formal recognition for their volunteer contributions to the institute and the profession.

The deadline for nominations is Wednesday, February 3, 2010, 4:30 p.m.

Carla Brown-John
Director – Administration & Human Resources

Next Oral Review Session – March 2010

Due to the timing of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, the next oral review session will be held on March 23 and 24. The application form is available to download. Oral reviews are open to those Intern Architects who have both completed and logged at least 2800 hours, along with the required AIBC courses. Alternative Qualifications Candidates who are eligible to sit the oral review may also apply.

Those candidates planning on take part in this round of oral reviews are invited to attend an Oral Review Preparation Workshop on Wednesday, March 3, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the AIBC offices.

Online Course Registration is Up and Running

Those interested in registering for AIBC courses can now do so online. We do appreciate the patience shown while we’ve been working out various technical glitches.

MAIBCs, ATs, BDs and RDs: As participants in the AIBC’s Continuing Education System, you should have already acquired your Logon ID and Password. This is what you will need to register online for a course. Once you’ve accessed your file, click on “Events” to see the course schedule.

Intern Architects and Applicants: You should have received an e-mail in December about getting new logon instructions that will allow you to access your file. If you do not have your Logon ID and Password, please go to http://aibc.memberpro.net/main/body.cfm?menu=login and click on “forget your Logon ID or Password?” You will then receive an automated e-mail with the necessary instruction. Should you require additional information or support, please contact Aleta Cho at acho@aibc.ca or Catherine Bolter at cbolter@aibc.ca.

2010 AIBC Annual Conference

Community Building: The Social Impact of Architecture
2010 AIBC Annual Conference

May 6 - 8, 2010
Vancouver Convention Centre

Now more than ever, social challenges are beckoning change and transformation on a global scale. The theme for 2010, Community Building: The Social Impact of Architecture, celebrates the many ways in which today’s built environment defines our communities, and the critical role that architecture plays in articulating that definition. From simple homes and functional business space to state-of-the art hospitals and schools, from gritty streetscapes to iconic sport facilities, our communities are a true reflection of our complex society. Through vision, innovation, and social awareness, architects play an important part in shaping not only what our communities are, but what they can be. Through five learning streams, the 2010 AIBC Conference will explore architectural history, modern innovation, new challenges, best practices, and some of the innovative ways in which architects are responding to the social call for action. Detailed information can be found online at www.aibc.ca/conference2010.

Firm Updates Overdue
Outstanding Annual Updates Required Immediately

The Architects Act and AIBC bylaws require every firm to file an annual update with the AIBC. Firms that have not yet updated their profiles must do so immediately to ensure accurate publication in the 2010 AIBC Directory. Firm update information and instructions (including firm login identification and password information) were e-mailed to every firm on October 15, with an identified owner / administrator and e-mail address, and mailed to all other firms for which we have no email address. To complete your update, you must log on to your on-line firm profile (http://aibc.memberpro.net).

Free Practice Consultation Service Making a Positive Impression

Response to the AIBC’s Practice Consultation Service (formerly Practice Standards Consultation Service) continues to be overwhelmingly positive. Participating firms have provided excellent feedback respecting benefits to their firms and the informative nature of the process itself. As a result, firms of various sizes have been able to better standardize their project organization of projects and improve their processes. Here’s what some have to say about their PCS experience:

“This experience has been a smooth and cooperative process. The precise statements and the clear understanding created a great communication tool. My interview was neither threatening nor worrisome, but rather a helpful wake-up call on methods of practice where I should be using more standard check sheets rather than relying [solely] on my 39 years of practice!”
- Ben Levinson MAIBC

“We have found the process valuable to our firm. The methodical, step-by-step preparation process … has been an excellent opportunity for us to step back and review what we are doing right and what we can improve upon.”
– Hugh Cochlin MAIBC (Proscenium Architecture and Interiors Inc.)

The PCS is not a design review. Rather, it is a positive, educational, interactive process that allows members to consider their practices through external feedback from volunteer practice consultants — fellow architects who have stepped up to share their wealth of experience, understanding and knowledge. Their advice may pertain to any area where support is needed or wanted, and the visit can provide a good opportunity to chat about a variety of topics relating to a member’s practice. The process affords a closer look at how one’s firm manages itself and its projects, including organizational structure, contract management procedures and office administration.

The process is simple and straightforward. Members begin by filling out a Practice Self-Assessment Rating Form that serves as a starting point for self-evaluation and provides an introduction to the firm for the practice consultant. The next steps are to gather project documents and administrative records for three projects that are representative of the firm’s work, in preparation for the practice consultant’s visit and interview.

Consultation spots are available throughout 2010. For more information on how you can take advantage of this valuable resource, please contact Coordinator of Professional Practice Erica Holt by phone (604-683-8588; ext. 314) or e-mail (eholt@aibc.ca).

Update: Bulletin 01 (2010) – Fees, Fines and Charges

An updated edition of Bulletin 01 (2010) - Fees, Fines and Charges is now available online at http://www.aibc.ca/bulletins/Bulletin_01.pdf.

BEEP Module I:

Building Science and the Building Envelope (Available Online)

Topics for Module I include:

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

For more information, please contact Professional Development Coordinator Catherine Bolter at cbolter@aibc.ca or (604) 683-8588, extension 312.

18 Core LUs

The AIBC 2009 PD/CES Course Schedule and Registration Form are available online at www.aibc.ca/member_resources/professional_dev/index.html

British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) Centre for Architectural Ecology

GROW 0001 - Green Roofs - Concepts, Systems and Incentives

Participants will learn about the basics of green roofs, definitions of the different types of green roof systems and materials, appropriate vegetation for intensive, semi-intensive and extensive green roofs. Course content will provide knowledge of a benefit analysis of green roofs through case study. The format will be two hours of lecture and two hours of workshop. Participants will tour the dedicated Green Roof Research Facility at the Centre for Architectural Ecology to review products and mock up a green roof assembly. This interdisciplinary course would be of interest to planners, design professionals and others in the building industry. For more information please contact Jonathan Hays at BCIT Centre for Architectural Ecology by phone ((604) 456-1007) or e-mail (Jonathan_Hays@bcit.ca). It takes place March 25, 2010, 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. at the Centre for Architectural Ecology (BCIT Great Northern Way Campus, Vancouver). For details or to register, please visit http://www.bcit.ca/study/courses/grow0001.

4 Core LUs

Bradlee Distributors

Join Bradlee Distributors on Thursday, April 1 for an evening of extensive product training on one of the industry’s most luxurious kitchen brands, Sub-Zero and Wolf. Refreshments provided. The location is 13780 Bridgeport Road, Richmond. Please RSVP to Alexis at (604) 244-1744 or agavin@bradlee.net.

1.5 Non-Core LU

InterCoast Sales

3rd Annual Sustainable Architecture Symposium

You are invited to attend this intensive full-day workshop featuring recognized experts who will present the latest technologies for sustainable architectural design using advanced building envelope technologies.
Attendees will gain a better understanding of some the key design issues in designing sustainable buildings. This seminar will be of interest to design principals architects, engineers, building owners, municipal government officials and LEED®AP professionals. Registration is $219.00 (early bird rate of $189 prior to March 7). It takes place at the Empire Landmark Hotel, 1600 Robson Street, Vancouver on Thursday, March 18. For more information or to register, please visit www.intercoastsales.ca or contact Annette Riley by phone (1-877-866-3369) or e-mail (Annette@intercoastsales.ca).

6 Core LUs

Cascadia Green Building Council

Transformation Lecture Series: Sustainable Stewardship- Greening Historic Building
Barbara Campagna, the Chief Architect for the US National Trust for Historic Preservation, will discuss the National Trust’s Sustainability Program and how the 29 historic sites of the National Trust are integrating historic preservation values with green building practices – from green housekeeping techniques to sustainability master plans to LEED certification for historic rehabilitations.

Victoria
Tuesday, March 9, 2010   
Legacy Gallery, 630 Yates Street
5:30 p.m.; $10

Kelowna
Wednesday, March 10, 2010  
Rotary Centre for the Arts, Pacific Board Room, 421 Cawston Avenue
5:30 p.m.; $10

Limited seating available; advance registration encouraged.

For more information or to register, please visit http://www.cascadiagbc.org/education/transformational-lecture-series#british-columbia-1

Simon Fraser University City Program

Climate Change: Using The New Local Government Powers (Victoria)

This course will examine new local government powers to deal with climate change (Bill 10 and Bill 27 of 2008), and equip planning practitioners to put them to use in their communities. The principal focus will be on development permit area designations for water and energy conservation and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The instructors will cover development permit area designations and justifications, and the preparation and application of development permit guidelines addressing these new planning objectives.
The course will also touch on local building regulations, development cost charges, and off-street parking requirements - all in relation to climate change. Those attending should have some basic familiarity with development permit systems under the British Columbia Local Government Act. Instructors: Bill Buholzer, lawyer - Young, Anderson; Marta Farevaag, principal - Phillips Farevaag Smallenberg. It happens Friday, March 5, 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. at the Ambrosia Conference & Event Centre, 638 Fisgard Street, Victoria. The cost is $295 (GST included).

6 Non-Core LUs

BC Wood

Wood Products R&D Tour: FPInnovations and the Centre for Advanced Wood Processing (CAWP)

You are invited to join BC Wood and partners FPInnovations (Canada's national wood products research institute) and CAWP (The University of British Columbia's Centre for Advanced Wood Processing) to learn what is new and innovative in wood developing products. FPInnovations and CAWP develop and test innovative wood developing products such as new building systems, engineered wood products, windows, doors, flooring and furniture. The session takes place Wednesday, February 3, 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (lunch provided) at FPInnovations, 2665 East Mall (UBC campus, near the stadium), Vancouver. Space is limited so please RSVP as soon as possible by calling Barbara Bell at barbara.bell@fpinnovations.ca or 604 803 1169.

3 Core LUs

IMAGINiT Technologies

Sustainable Design: Ecotect Analysis Fundamentals (Web-based Workshop)

Ecotect Analysis software is a comprehensive concept-to-detail sustainable design analysis tool, providing a wide range of simulation and analysis functionality. Users can interact with powerful 3D feedback to explore factors such as solar energy, shadows and reflections, and day lighting. Using Autodesk Ecotect Analysis, architects and designers can gain better insight into building performance early in the process, helping to achieve more sustainable designs, faster time to market, and lower project costs. For more information or to register, please contact Kam Seignarack by e-mail (kam.seignarack@rand.com) or phone (604-207-2114).

16 Core LUs

AEC Daily Online Learning

AEC Daily offers free online courses worth core learning units. For a list of offerings, please visit their online learning centre at http://www.aecdaily.com/en/236763?list=4

Current Exhibit: Okanagan Architecture Exhibit

January 6 – February 9, 2010
AIBC Gallery: #100 – 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver

Several works completed by Okanagan-area architects are being presented at the AIBC Gallery from January 6 – February 15, 2010. 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. This exhibit is sponsored by the B.C. Chapter of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada.

Upcoming Exhibit: BienVenue: 2010 Games Architecture

February 10 – March 1, 2010
AIBC Gallery: #100 – 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver
Opening Reception: Thursday, February 11, 2010, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

The Architectural Institute of British Columbia presents a unique exhibit from February 10 to March 1, 2010. Designed to coincide with the 2010 games, this exhibit will showcase the innovative work of B.C. architects and firms involved in designing competition and non-competition venues.

The AIBC Gallery is free and open to the public Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. An opening reception will be held Thursday, February 11. Advance reservations are required; please e-mail communications@aibc.ca to confirm your attendance.

Click here to preview a slideshow of current project submissions.

LetsGoForDinner.com

For your culinary needs this winter, take advantage of LetsGoForDinner.com, an online membership program that allows you save at your favorite restaurants. Mention your ClubAIBC affiliation, and save $25 on gift certificates redeemable at Water Street Cafe, Wild Rice, Century Restaurant, and a wide range of restaurants in Vancouver and Whistler. For more information, or to sign up, visit http://www.LetsGoForDinner.com.

ClubAIBC has added new partners to its corporate discount program. To find out more about ClubAIBC's new offerings, visit http://www.aibc.intrd.com

NYC Active Design Guidelines

The city of New York has developed a new document to encourage a healthier built environment. The Active Design Guidelines, developed through a partnership of the New York City departments of Design and Construction, Health and Mental Hygiene, Transportation, City Planning and the Office of Management and Budget, builds on the growing body of research that suggests evidence-based architectural and urban design strategies can increase regular physical activity and healthy eating. Active design is seen as a critical approach to addressing issues such as obesity while also supporting sustainability. The city’s new guidelines provide architects and urban designers with a manual of strategies for creating healthier buildings, streets and urban spaces, based on the latest academic research and best practices in the field. The manual is available online by visiting http://ddcftp.nyc.gov/adg/.

CHOP II – Hard Copy

The print version of the new Canadian Handbook of Practice, Second Edition can now be purchased online through the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada. The handbook has been completely updated and features extensive additions, and has been completely updated. The print version, encompassing three binders, includes a list of acronyms, index, checklists, charts, sample forms, and more than 600 pages of text. Note: As with the First Edition, CCDC contract documents are not included, and must be purchased separately. CD-ROM and PDF versions are also available. The CHOP is available at specially discounted prices for Canadian architects, intern architects, and students in a Master's program at an accredited Canadian school of architecture. For access to discounted prices, users must first register with the CHOP Order Centre. To register, order, of for information including prices, visit https://www.raic.org/chop/registration/index.cfm?CFID=12688804&CFTOKEN=38218247.

Seismic Slope Changes

New requirements for seismic slope stability have been added to the BC Building Code, effective February 1, 2010. Details on the new standards can be found online at http://www.housing.gov.bc.ca/building/bulletins/B10_01_seismic_slope_stability.pdf. For further information, please contact Steven Kuan, Seismic Engineer - Building and Safety Policy Branch - Ministry of Housing and Social Development, by phone (604-218-0296) or e-mail (Steven.Kuan@gov.bc.ca).

BC Safety Authority Directive - Elevators

The BC Safety Authority has issued a directive on ‘safety zones’ for elevating devices. This directive has a direct impact on the space planning of any building with an elevator, as it requires a specific unobstructed area for passengers entering or leaving an elevator.

Click here for the directive.

Canadian Architectural Practices Benchmark Study

Canadian Architect has released its 2009 Canadian Architectural Practices Benchmark Study. This national report provides a means of assessing industry norms such as how your firm's billings and growth compares to others, whether your management compensation is on par with others, and how much other firms are spending on information technology and marketing. To order a copy of the report, go to www.canadianarchitect.com/benchmark. To view a related video, visit www.canadianarchitect.com/video/benchmark.asp.

AFH Vancouver Fundraiser For Haiti

The Vancouver Chapter of Architecture for Humanity is hosting a special screening of “One Peace At A Time”. This inspiring documentary follows director Turk Pipkin’s five-continent, two-year search for a better way, and an answer to one basic question: Can we provide basic rights – water, nutrition, education, healthcare and a sustainable and peaceful environment – to every child on earth? It highlights solutions to some of the world’s most pressing problems, and features insights from global leaders such as Nobel Peace laureate Muhammad Yunus, Nobel physicist Steven Chu, and CARE international CEO Dr. Helene Gayle. The film is produced by the Nobelity Project, a non-profit working for a more peaceful and sustainable world. The screening takes place Saturday, February 6, 2010, 7:30 p.m. at the Empire Granville 7 Cinemas, 855 Granville Street, Vancouver. All proceeds will go towards Architecture for Humanity’s efforts to rebuild Haiti. To purchase advance tickets, visit http://onepeacevancouver.eventbrite.com/. Additional donations can be made at http://afh-vancouver.org/main/?page_id=514.

TownShift Competition Results

Adjudication has now been completed for “TownShift: Suburb into City”, an open international ideas competition that challenged architects and others to generate innovative ideas for the development of five town centres in Surrey. An exhibition of finalists will take place on Thursday, February 4, 2010, 6:00 p.m. at Simon Fraser University’s Surrey Central City Campus. This will be followed by an “Urbanizing the Suburbs” panel discussion at 7:00 p.m. featuring Bing Thom MAIBC and Globe and Mail architecture critic Lisa Rochon, and moderated by TownShift co-organizer Trevor Boddy. Winners of the competition will be announced on Wednesday, February 24, 2010, 11:00 a.m. at SFU Surrey Central City. A subsequent panel discussion, titled “Where Do We Go From Here”, will be held on Monday, March 29. For more details, visit www.townshift.ca.

Click here to download the TownShift poster.

Round Table on Italian Design

In conjunction with the upcoming Vancouver exhibition of the Farnesina Design Collection, AIBC members are invited to attend a round table discussion on Italian design. It takes place Tuesday, February 9, 6:00 p.m. at Emily Carr University of Arts + Design (Granville Island, Vancouver). Admission is free. The round table panel will include with the participation of the curators as well as some leading designers and academics from both Italy and Canada. Discussion will focus on the cultural value of design with particular focus on the issue of sustainability. The event is organized by the Istituto Italiano di Cultura and the Consulate General of Italy in Vancouver, in collaboration with the Embassy of Italy in Ottawa, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Italy, Alenia North America, ICE-Italian Trade Commission, and the Emily Carr University of Arts + Design. The Farnesina Design Collection comprises 15 different areas of design, including objects and drawings from designers the likes of Gaetano Pesce and Stefano Giovannoni, and companies such as Ducati and Venini. The public exhibition itself will be on display at the Roundhouse Community Centre from February 9-28, during the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. For more information, visit the web site at www.iicvancouver.esteri.it.

CCA Architecture Program Deadlines

Submissions are being accepted for the following CCA architecture programs. For these programs, “works of architecture” are defined as built works as well as works of critical or design research on architecture, landscape architecture or the urban environment including buildings, landscapes and places. Architecture and landscape architecture professionals are eligible to apply.

• Professional Prix de Rome in Architecture – awarded annually to a young practitioner of architecture or an architectural firm who has completed its first built works and demonstrated exceptional artistic potential. The prize encourages the development of artistic excellence in contemporary architectural practice by supporting the laureates to travel around the world to hone their skills, develop their creative practice and strengthen their position in an international architectural milieu. Prize amount: $50,000. Deadline: March 1, 2010.
• Ronald J. Thom Award for Early Design Achievement - awarded to either a practitioner of architecture or an architectural firm who is in the early stages of his or her career and who demonstrates both outstanding creative talent and exceptional potential in architectural design. The successful candidate must demonstrate sensitivity to architecture’s allied arts, crafts and professions within the context of an integrated built environment, which includes landscape architecture, interior design, furniture design, graphic design and decorative arts. Award amount: $10,000. Deadline: March 1, 2010.
• Assistance to Practitioners Critics and Curators of Architecture - supporting architecture professionals and architectural firms in the production of special projects that promote contemporary Canadian works of architecture to a broad and diverse public. Projects must lead to the production of a book, exhibition, film and video, television program, radio program, multimedia program, series of articles or lectures, or other public event. This program also provides funding to professional competition advisors to develop material related to an architectural competition. Maximum grant amount: $20,000. Deadline: March 1, 2010.
• Travel Grants to Professionals in the Visual Arts in support of visual and fine craft artists, independent critics and curators, and architecture professionals for travel to attend or participate in activities important to their practice. Maximum grant amount: $2,500. Deadline: March 1, 2010.

Notice: The Professional Prix de Rome, Ronald J. Thom Award, and assistance programs are currently undergoing minor revisions. Updated guidelines and application forms will available through the CCA website in early February. For further questions, please contact Architecture Officer Sarah Gelbard (e-mail: sarah.gelbard@canadacouncil.ca; phone: 1(800) 263-5588).

UBC Grad Exhibition

The Winter 2010 graduating class from the Architecture program at the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture invites you to attend its thesis exhibition, February 5-7 at the 221A Artist Run Centre, 221a East Georgia, Vancouver. An opening reception will be held on Friday, February 5, beginning at 5:00 p.m.

Metro Vancouver Regional Growth Strategy

Metro Vancouver is consulting local residents and other stakeholders on the latest draft of its regional growth strategy, Metro Vancouver 2040: Shaping our future. This draft incorporates feedback gathered from municipalities and members of the public in the spring of 2009. The draft will now be shared and discussed at a series of public meetings throughout January, which you are invited to attend. For dates, locations and to register, as well as detailed information on the draft plan, visit www.metrovancouver.org/planning/development/strategy.

Public Meetings

White Rock:

Tuesday, February 2, 2010, 7:00 – 9:00 p.m., City Council Chambers, 15322 Buena Vista Avenue

To pre-register and for more information including details on the draft plan, the consultation history and process, and more ways to join the conversation, visit the website at: www.metrovancouver.org/planning/development/strategy.

High Performance Design Exhibition

The Charles H. Scott Gallery at Vancouver’s Emily Carr University of Art + Design features a design exhibition from January 20 to March 7, 2010. Titled High Performance, it showcases a selection of products from the field of sports and recreation that showcase the innovative work of Canadian designers. With rugged landscapes, vast distances, and harsh winters, the Canadian environment has challenged designers and inspired the development of products that enable individuals to pursue activities in the Canadian landscape. Many products, such as kayaks and snowshoes, have evolved from their traditional designs into modern pieces through the use of high-tech materials, advanced manufacturing processes and new design strategies. Featured works include GV Snowshoes, G3 Genuine Guide Gear, Homegrown Skateboards, Gatt Sled, Hennessey Hammock, Feathercraft Products, BIXI Public Bike System, Knolly Bikes, Toby’s Cycle Works, Islander Reels, Arc’teryx, Cervélo Cycles, Boblbee, Dakine and the Original Maple Bat Corporation. The exhibition, with a unifying theme of “high performance”, is curated by Greg Bellerby and designed by Campos Leckie and Oliver Neumann in collaboration with the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture and the University of Toronto Faculty of Architecture, Landscape and Design, and presented with support of the Vancouver 2010 Cultural Olympiad. For more information, please visit http://chscott.ecuad.ca/exhibitions/201001_high_performance.html.

Call for Entries: World Sustainable Building Conference

Canadian firms are invited to take part in the Sustainable Building Challenge, an international co-operative process to develop understanding of performance assessment tools and highlight innovative sustainable building design techniques. The challenge will form a key part of the Seventh World Sustainable Building Conference (SB11) in Helsinki, Finland, October 18-21, 2011. Held every three years, the event provides the opportunity for the world’s leading technical experts and researchers to advance their knowledge by focusing on technical developments and case studies. The 2009 conference in Melbourne, Australia, attracted more than 2,000 delegates and showcased projects from 60 countries. Canadian designers - particularly architects, engineers, commercial developers and building owners - are encouraged to submit their projects for consideration. Commercial, institutional and multi-unit residential building types from either the public or private sector will all be considered; eligibility is restricted to projects that demonstrate potential exemplary and balanced sustainability performance objectives as part of the design process. All projects must be under construction or completed prior to June 1, 2010. The iiSBE Canada SB11 Team will select three building projects from those submitted. Up to five additional projects will be selected and presented in poster format. The closing date for entries is Friday, April 30, 2010. Further information and application forms, go to http://www.iisbe.org/sbc11/canada/call.

Laurie Olin on Landscape Architecture

H.J. Webb and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture & Landscape Architecture are pleased to present as pat of the 2009-2010 lecture series, “Civic Delight” with Laurie Olin FASLA RLA. Olin, a Professor of Landscape Architecture at the University of Pennsylvania, is also a successful author and highly-regarded landscape architect. His portfolio of award-winning projects includes Bryant Park in New York and the J. Paul Getty Centre in Los Angeles. In 2008, his Philadelphia-based firm received the 2008 Landscape Design Award from the Smithsonian’s Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum for excellence in landscape design and dedication to sustainability. This free lecture takes place on Tuesday, February 2, 2010, 6:30 p.m. at the UBC Forest Science Centre.

Save the Date: Building SustainABLE Communities

The Fresh Outlook Foundation is hosting its fourth Building SustainABLE Communities conference in Kelowna, BC from November 16 to 18, 2010. Speakers include:

• Terry Tamminen: Climate action advisor to California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and BC Premier Gordon Campbell. Author of Lives Per Gallon: The True Cost of Our Energy Addiction. 
• Dr. Reginald Bibby: Sociologist at the University of Lethbridge and Canada's premier tracker and interpreter of social trends.
• Michael Kinsley: A senior consultant with the Rocky Mountain Institute who has helped build sustainable economies and environments since 1983.

For more information, please visit www.freshoutlookfoundation.org.

City of Vancouver Olympic Service Levels

Staff from many City of Vancouver departments will be providing support to the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. As a result, some services levels will be affected for the period of the games, February 11-28, 2010. This includes Development Services, Planning, Licences and Inspections as well as the Engineering Services Group (Crossroads location). New applications, fully completed, will be accepted for trades, tenant improvements, laneway housing, renovations to conditional one- and two-family dwellings, new “outright” one- and two-family dwellings, tree removal, signs and “over the counter” development and building permits. Enquiries only will be accepted for project facilitation, rezonings, subdivision and strata approvals, and larger development and building permits. Inspections, building licences, occupancy permits, property research and copies of building plans will be processed on a limited basis. Those who anticipate requiring any such services during the Olympics are encouraged to contact the city in advance. Additional information can be found online at http://vancouver.ca/commsvcs/developmentservices/

Call for Papers: Heritage Challenges Conference

École de design and Institut du patrimoine of Université du Québec à Montréal are organizing a conference entitled “Preserving Modern Architecture in Québec, Canada, and Elsewhere: Heritage Challenges and the Mobilization of Knowledge”. It will be held in Montréal from October 14 - 17, 2010. Submissions are currently being accepted for conference presenters. For detailed information, including the Call for Papers, visit the conference web site (available in January) at http://www.ip.uqam.ca/

2010 BC Real Estate Convention

The 6th Annual BC Real Estate Convention takes place April 8-9, 2010 at the Vancouver Convention Centre. This annual event, which brings together developers, realtors, municipalities, financial institutions, insurance agencies, associations and many other involved in the real estate industry, will be of interest to anyone involved with residential or commercial real estate. It features highly informative speakers, seminars, exhibitions, networking and investment opportunities. Admission is free with pre-registration. Go to http://www.bcrealestateconvention.com/bcrec/main/frame.php?main=22.

Globe 2010

Globe 2010, the Biennial Conference and Trade Fair for Business and the Environment, will take place March 24 – 26 at the Vancouver Convention Centre. This is the largest and longest-running event dedicated to the business of the environment in North America. The conference themes for 2010 include corporate sustainability innovation, climate change & carbon management, the future of energy, financing the low carbon economy, and the urban infrastructure revolution. Additional topics such as water and clean technology will be covered. For more information, or to register, visit www.globe2010.com.

Venice Biennale in Architecture

"Hylozoic Ground," a project by Philip Beesley Architect Inc. in collaboration with the University of Waterloo’s School of Architecture, has been selected to represent Canada at the 2010 Venice Biennale in Architecture. The chosen project is a uniquely Canadian experimental architecture that explores qualities of contemporary wilderness, and promises to transform the Canadian Pavilion with an immersive environment composed of interactive mechanical fronds, filters and whiskers that senses and responds to its human occupants. It was selected through a juried national competition held by the Canada Council for the Arts. The CCA will be partnering with the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada to assist with this year’s biennale, which takes place in Venice, Italy, from September to November 2010.

Wood Design Awards

Entries are now being accepted for the sixth annual Wood Design Awards. This year’s event will feature two new award categories: The Premier’s Wood Champion Award and the Innovation Award. The Premier’s Wood Champion Award will honour an individual or organization demonstrating advocacy in the use of wood in construction in B.C. or abroad, or contributing significantly to the selection of wood in projects that demonstrate innovation of design with wood or the use of wood as a sustainable, climate-friendly building project. The Innovation Award will recognize creative and innovative approaches in the use of wood in building design, product design and/or processes. Other categories include: Residential; Green Building; Multi-unit Residential; Commercial; Institutional < $10 M; Institutional > $10 M; Western Red Cedar; Interior Beauty Design; Architect; and Engineer. The awards gala, March 29 at the Fairmont Waterfront in Vancouver, celebrates excellence in structural and architectural uses of wood and provides an opportunity for architects, engineers, building designers, builders and project owners to showcase their projects. The call for nominations closes on Thursday, February 11. For more information and nomination forms, visit www.wood-works.ca.

A Fresh Look at 20th Century Architectural Heritage

The International Union of Architects has launched an international competition that invites participants to share their own expression of 20th Century architecture using today’s design tools. Architecture students from around the world are invited to create image models of significant architectural creativity realised during the last century. All phases of the competition will be conducted on-line, and all image models must be based on digital photographs created using Autodesk® ImageModeler™ and Autodesk® Stitcher™ Unlimited software (the software will be made available to competitors free of charge for the duration of the competition.) Working as teams or individuals, students are free to choose the structure they wish to represent, from a major landmark to an unknown building, with the condition that it was built between 1901 and 2000. Registration is open until April 26, 2010. For full information, visit www.archi.fr/3D_20th.

Recent CCA Recipients

The following are recently-announced recipients of grants and awards through the Canada Council for the Arts architecture program:

• J.B.C. Watkins Award - Fall 2009: Troy Therrien, enrolled at the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London, UK. The $5,000 J.B.C. Watkins Award is given to Canadian architectural graduates pursuing further studies at a foreign institution.
• Assistance for the Promotion of Architecture - 2009

Recipients for this program, which supports the production of special projects that promote contemporary Canadian works of architecture to a broad and diverse public, include:

• Centre de design de UQAM (Montreal, Quebec): Autour de LaTourelle - “A series of events around the theme of colour, space and models, offering new insights on the installation by Rodney LaTourelle”; Penser tout haut – Faire l’architecture - “An intimate look at twenty international and six Canadian architecture offices and a lexicon of the tools of the profession.”
• Centre d’exposition de Val d’Or (Val d’Or, Quebec): Paysages urbains de la Vallée-de-l’Or: De l’anarchie à la cohérence – “An exhibition and series of activities on the built heritage and the social role of modern architecture in the Vallée-de-l’Or.”
• Fondation des Jardins de Métis (Grand-Métis Quebec): 11th International Garden Festival - “Twenty conceptual gardens created by landscape architects of international renown to be presented at the Jardins de Métis."
• Harbourfront Centre (Toronto, Ontario): Architecture at Harbourfront Centre - “A public series of exhibitions which challenge and question the thoughts and ideas that form contemporary architecture.”
• McGill-Queen’s University Press (Montreal, Quebec): Topographies: The Architecture and Urbanism of Arthur Erickson - “A thoroughly illustrated and elegantly designed book repositioning Erickson as on of the protagonists of global modernist architecture.”
• Mendel Art Gallery (Saskatoon, Saskatchewan): 41 to 66 Regional Responses to Sustainable Architecture in Canada – “Bringing 41 to 66 to the Mendel, opening in conjunction with the 2010 RAIC Festival of Architecture.”
• Spo7ez Cultural Centre / Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre (Whistler, BC): Celebrating Culture and a Commitment to Environmental Responsibility - “An exhibition showcasing the design of the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre at Canada House in Trafalgar Square, London.”
• Vancouver Museum Society (Vancouver, BC): This is not an architectural speaker series - “A multidisciplinary lecture/speaker series that will invite public exploration of Vancouver’s unique architecture and related design themes.”

Wilkinson Named Associate Principal

Cannon Design has announced the appointment of David Wilkinson MAIBC, AAA, MRAIC as Associate Principal. Wilkinson, past president of the AIBC, has more than 25 years of practice experience. He has been responsible for the business development, operations and management of major projects in Cannon Design’s western Canadian region, with a focus on health, education and wellness.

 

Tendering Process Increasingly Bypassing Architects

By Jean Sorensen, Daily Commercial News
December 17, 2009

Metro Vancouver architects, who have designed municipal buildings or structures, are increasingly being cut out of the municipal tendering process. The reason, said some municipalities, isn’t to save a few dollars, but litigation fears in what is becoming a highly competitive arena with accountability and transparency as key issues. More …

Moshe Safdie

By Sarah Williams Goldhagen, Design Observer
January 25, 2010

Even though Moshe Safdie made his name in Montreal, as the 26-year-old architect of a model prefabricated housing project called Habitat that became the unexpected star of the Expo ’67 hit parade, the city that has been the most frequent metropolitan object of his musings, teachings, writings and practice over the subsequent decades is Jerusalem. More …

Games Architecture Exhibition Celebrates Winning Design

Re:place Magazine
January 26, 2010

This February, the Architectural Institute of British Columbia will feature a special gallery exhibit that showcases the involvement of British Columbia architects in bringing the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games to life. The exhibit, titled BienVenue: 2010 Games Architecture, will offer a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse of the design process involved in creating games-related venues. More …

Builders Dream of a Better Haiti
A group of architects, engineers and urban planners has met every day since the devastating quake, discussing not how to rebuild but how to start anew.

By Mitchell Landsberg, Los Angeles Times
January 26, 2010

next day, 50 people showed up at a house in the hillside suburb of Petionville and went to work. They have met every day since, gathering around a table in a courtyard under the shade of a spreading almond tree. Their goal is simple. It is also audacious. They want to plan a new Haiti. More …

Council Votes to Protect Spectacular Views
Three of four building proposals deemed too tall and sent back to the drawing board

By Neal Hall, Vancouver Sun
January 27, 2010

Vancouver council voted Tuesday to stand behind its policy to protect the city's world-renowned water, mountain and skyline views, sending three of four proposals for extra-tall buildings back to the drawing board. Coun. Raymond Louie said council had received a strong message that Vancouver residents want to keep their spectacular views. "Council listened to the people, who gave us a clear message they want to retain view corridors," Louie said. "We're not making any relaxation of existing policy." More …

Olympic Games Canada Pavilion Called 'Shameful'
'A kit building'; U.S. firm put in charge of $9.2M project

By Adam McDowell, National Post
January 28, 2010

Architects are panning the Canada Pavilion for the 2010 Olympic Games, designed by a U.S. firm and unveiled yesterday in Vancouver, saying it is the latest of a string of dowdy pavilions erected to represent Canada at international events. Heritage Minister James Moore unveiled the temporary interactive hub, designed to boast about Canada's sporting achievements and serve as a gathering place to watch events. Architects said they felt let down by a design they condemned as an ugly, unimaginative embarrassment. More …

The Eighth Wonder of the World
Architecture used to be a point of pride for many cities. The AGA brings that pride back to Edmonton

By Jessica Earle, See Magazine
January 28, 2010

I invite you to take a tour. Make a round of Churchill Square — the proverbial meeting place of the people — and juxtapose the new building on the block to other prominent Edmonton structures in the area. It’s my hope giggles will escape as you compare the rolling lines and mercurial colours of the new Art Gallery of Alberta (AGA) to the staid bricks of the neighbouring law courts or the precise angles of City Hall. More …

 

 

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