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AIBC registrants are invited to meet the winners of the FormShift Vancouver architectural design ideas competition and take part in a panel discussion. The event takes place on Wednesday, May 6, 7:30 p.m. at SFU Harbour Centre. More...
John Kay MRAIC, ARIBA, Process of IAA – Architecture, passed away on Thursday, April 9 at the age of 80. He is survived by his wife Gunilla and children Ron, Monica, Gradley and Amanda. Born in Sheffield, England and a product of the British Architectural Institute, John registered with the AIBC in 1967. He retired in 2008, having collected several awards for residential design along the way, and was granted the honourary title of “Life Member of the AIBC” in recognition of 30 or more years of continuous membership. A celebration of John’s life will be held from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 3 at Beecher Place, 12160 Beecher Street, Crescent Beach. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in John’s name may do so to the University of British Columbia architectural scholarship fund established with TD Bank.
AIBC registrants are invited to meet the winners of the recent FormShift Vancouver architectural design ideas competition, view the winning submissions, and take part in a panel discussion of the issues raised through the competition. FormShift Vancouver, co-sponsored by the AIBC and the City of Vancouver, challenged the design community to help give shape to Vancouver’s goals of greener and denser development while improving the city's overall livability. This public event will look at the results, including commentary from a panel moderated by Simon Fraser University City Program Director Gordon Price, and including architect Peter Busby, journalists Frances Bula and David Beers, City of Vancouver Planning Director Brent Toderian and developer Norm Shearing. It takes place on Wednesday, May 6, 7:30 p.m. at SFU Harbour Centre, 515 West Hastings Street. Admission is free; however, reservations are required. Contact cstudies@sfu.ca or call (778) 782-5100. FormShift Vancouver acknowledges the support Parklane Homes, Wall Financial Corporation, The PCI Group, Grosvenor, www.TheTyee.ca, and mcfarlane green biggar architecture + Design. For more information on FormShift, including images of the winning entries, visit www.formshiftvancouver.com.
1.5 Non-core LUs
Interested MAIBCs are invited to put forth their name to act as a scrutineer for the upcoming AIBC Council election.
It is the roll of the scrutineer to merely observe the ballot counting process to ensure accuracy and impartiality. The ballot counting will take place during the annual meeting on Saturday, May 9. Three volunteer scrutineers are sought.
All volunteer applications will be reviewed in advance. Once the voting period has been officially closed at the onset of the meeting, the Council President will identify the scrutineers.
In the interest of fairness and confidentiality, each scrutineer will be required to sign a confidentiality agreement, and must remain in the secured room used for the ballot counting for the duration of the counting process. As a result, he or she will not be able to take part in any of the discussions or voting that occurs during the annual meeting.
Those interested are asked to submit a letter of interest to the attention of Katherine Rau (krau@aibc.ca) no later than Wednesday, May 6, 2009.
The AIBC’s Architects in Schools (AIS) Program is looking for enthusiastic and energetic volunteers to:
The goal of the AIS program is to promote awareness, appreciation and interest in architecture via educational institutions throughout BC. AIS advocates for the inclusion of studies in architecture and the build environment as an essential part of the provincial curriculum, facilitates discussion of strategies that support better built environments and sustainable communities, and seeks to develop and maintain educational materials and projects to promote the teaching of architecture in the school system. Current projects include Canstruction Vancouver at the Vancouver Convention Centre, and the Austin Heights Design Charette with Centennial High School students in Coquitlam. If you are interested in serving on this committee, volunteering to work in classrooms and career fairs, or would like more information, please contact Carla Brown-John, Director - Administration and Human Resources, at (604) 683-8588, Ext. 317.
Online and fax registrations are now being accepted for the 2009 AIBC Annual Conference. Click here to visit the conference web site. Detailed session information, including a downloadable version of the conference program, is also available (click here).
The 2009 conference theme, Legacy Building, acknowledges the permanence and importance of architecture in developing our communities with a special nod to the province’s role as host of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Conference sessions address a wide range of timely topics including sustainability, science & technology, health, social responsibility, education, business, sport, cultural heritage and design.
For questions, please contact communications@aibc.ca.
The AIBC is honoured to have amongst its many talented presenters at the 2009 AIBC Annual Conference, a contingent representing the International Union of Architects (UIA) Sports and Leisure Group. In support of the conference theme of Legacy Building and the proximity to the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, it provides a rare and invaluable opportunity to hear from these world leaders in the realm of sport architecture.
Featured sessions include:
T3 Building a Legacy:
2014 Commonwealth Games – GlasgowPresenter: Ian McKenzie, Sportscotland Director, International Union of Architects (UIA) Sports and Leisure Group.
T9 Richmond Olympic Oval:
Legacy & Transformation of Third Generation Olympic FacilityPresenters: Robert Johnston MAIBC, International Union of Architects (UIA) Sports and Leisure Group; Larry Podhora MAIBC.
T12 Legacy of the 2010 Olympics Panel
Panelists: Ken Dobell, Board of Directors, Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC); Patrick Jarvis, Board of Directors – 2010 Legacies Now, International Paralympic Committee (IPC), VANOC and WinSport Canada; Ian McKenzie, Sportscotland Director, International Union of Architects (UIA) Sports and Leisure Group.
T23 Abbotsford Entertainment and Sports Centre:
A Major Cultural, Leisure and Recreation InitiativePresenter: Conrad Boychuk MAIBC MRAIC UIA
F4 Design for Olympic Venues:
Lingotto Oval, Turin and Sochi 2014 Oval and Skating ArenaPresenter: Alessandro Zoppini, Architect, Principal Studio Zoppini, Milan, International Union of Architects (UIA).
Note: Space is limited. Register now.
Click here to view the complete online conference program, including detailed scheduling and session information. Click here to access the online registration page or simply fill out the registration form included in the conference program.
Now is the time to consider your sponsorship selection for the 2009 AIBC Annual Conference. Sponsorship provides a prime opportunity for organizations to strengthen brand recognition while accessing hundreds of potential clients, partners and colleagues. The AIBC offers four sponsorship tiers to choose from, each with a select range of benefits. Sponsors may choose to sponsor conference streams or individual sessions; meals; social events; professional recognition celebrations; and much more. With opportunities flexibly priced from $10,000 - $1,500, there’s something to fit every budget. Please contact AIBC Communications Specialist Lisa Toyne at ltoyne@aibc.ca for more information or to book your sponsorship.
A: No, they already have their own legislation. In fact, one of the main reasons for the Health Professions Act is the many health-related professions either with or demanding legislation, and competing for or claiming the right to engage in health-related practice activities.
The same conflict does not exist in our situation. Building designers and interior designers have each expressed their interest and desire to partner with the architects in creating a unified regulatory regime through the AIBC.
Click here to read more from the proposed new legislation web page.
For those registrants wishing to complete the AIBC’s Building Envelope Education Program (BEEP), now is your chance. Follow the link to our Professional Development web page and check out the scheduled dates as well as the course descriptions. These courses are only offered once a year, so don’t miss out. Send in your completed registration form as early as possible for each course. The next offering is: BEEP Module V: Extreme Environments—Advanced Envelope Design, Friday, June 5, 2009.
6 Core LUs
Building Science and the Building Envelope (Available Online)
Topics for Module I include:
The Outdoor and Indoor Environment
Conditions Within the Envelope
Materials and Their Moisture Content
Rain Penetration
Pressure Differences Due to Wind
Predicting Building Envelope Performance
For more information, please contact Professional Development Coordinator Catherine Bolter at cbolter@aibc.ca or at (604) 683-8588, extension 312.
18 Core LUs
The AIBC 2009 PD/CES Course Schedule and Registration Form are available online at www.aibc.ca/member_resources/professional_dev/index.html
Roofing Sustainability Seminar
Join a dynamic group of industry professionals for an eventful day of education, insight and discussion. It happens on Wednesday, May 20. Breakfast and registration begin at 7:45 a.m., with educational seminars running from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m..
This is a free event. For complete details, please read the online pdf.
5 Core LUs
Green Walls 101 - Introduction to Systems and Design
Through a series of case studies, this course aims to familiarize participants with exiting green wall technologies, their environmental benefits, and issues related to their design and construction. Green Walls 101 provides information that you can put to use immediately, including details and exercises on how to:
The course takes place on Tuesday, May 12 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the British Columbia Institute of Technology’s downtown Vancouver campus, 555 Seymour Street. For more information or to register, please visit http://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Info/Summary.aspx?e=a28daf9e-ff8a-49ff-9c5f-b3c756e42357.
7.5 Core LUs
The City of Vancouver’s “Historic Area Height Review” and “Heritage Rehabilitation and Transfer of Density Programs Review”: The Impact on “Old Vancouver”
Heritage Vancouver welcomes guest speakers Jessica Chen and Marco D’Agostini from the City of Vancouver for an evening of conversation about new planning initiatives that will impact the future of Vancouver’s historic areas. Chen, Central Area Senior Planner for the Downtown Eastside, will provide an update of the Historic Area Height Review Process. D’Agostini, a Senior Heritage Planner, will talk about the Heritage Building Rehabilitation Program for Gastown, Chinatown, Victory Square and the Hastings Corridor, as well as the city’s density transfer program. This will include consideration of future incentives for these areas as well as strategies to manage the creation of density and increase its absorption. Vancouver’s historic areas, which are listed on Heritage Vancouver’s “2009 Top Ten Endangered List”, are considered to be under threat due to a freeze on the transfer of density, the lack of other significant incentives, and the threat of over-height buildings. This presentation is an opportunity to find out what the city is proposing, and contribute ideas for city policies and heritage preservation. It all happens on Thursday, May 21, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Vancouver Museum, 1100 Chestnut Street. Admission is $5 (free to Heritage Vancouver members)
1.5 Core LUs
Old School – Courses for Building Conservation
Heritage 101 – Understanding Heritage Conservation
As the core offering for the Vancouver Heritage Foundation’s Certificate in Heritage Conservation, this unique one-day course is designed as a link between the theory and practice of heritage conservation. Using the Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada, it will move from “principles to practice” in three key areas: a values-based approach to heritage conservation; a discussion of the regulatory environment within local government; and the importance of planning prior to undertaking a heritage conservation project. Instructors: Marco D’Agostini, Senior Heritage Planner - City of Vancouver; Donald Luxton, Principal - Donald Luxton & Associates; and Judy Oberlander, Principal - Judy Oberlander and Associates Inc. It happens Saturday, May 2 from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. For more information or to register, please visit https://register.beanstream.com/scripts/registration.asp?form=161.
6.5 Core LUs
For additional information on the complete Old School Program, please visit http://www.vancouverheritagefoundation.org/oldschool.html.
Pacific Northwest Region Conference
In anticipation of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, the theme of the upcoming Pacific Northwest Region Conference is "Reaching for Gold.” It represents the efforts to achieve excellence in the planning and design of top quality educational facilities, and is reflected in the excellent keynote speakers, presentations, working sessions, and site tours that are offered. The conference takes place April 29 – May 2, 2009, at Marriott Pinnacle Hotel in Vancouver. For more information or to register, please visit http://www.cefpi.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3593.
5 Core LUs / 4 Non-core LUs
Construction Law – Getting Paid in Tough Times
Expert faculty will walk you through the lifecycle of a construction project and provide practical and immediate solutions to claw back money that is rightfully owed to you as well as ensure payment on future projects. Issues to be addressed include:
Methods of managing construction contract risks in current economic times;
Contract terms of which you need to be aware;
How to best protect your position after the contract is signed;
Proactive strategies you can implement to ensure payment;
Steps to take when you don’t get paid;
Issues involved in terminating a contract;
A practical look at litigation and other options;
The nuts and bolts of builders’ liens; and
Essential issues in insolvency - preventative measures and practical tactics.
It takes place June 10, 2009, at UBC Robson Square in Vancouver. For more information or to register, please visit www.pbli.com/787
5.5 Core LUs
Wednesday April 22 – Monday May 11, 2009
AIBC Gallery: #100 – 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver
Graduating students from Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s CIDA-accredited Bachelor of Interior Design program will be showcasing selected work from 11 comprehensive senior projects which have been developed from the programming phase through to design development. These adaptive reuse proposals encompass a wide variety of project types and include hospitality, residential, institutional, and health care. Each graduate has selected their project to address a specific societal need or opportunity and focuses upon sustainability. For more information on Kwantlen's Bachelor of Applied Design in Interior Design program, please visit http://www.kwantlen.ca/design/interior_design.html
Ellis Mortgages Canada, the official provider of a corporate mortgage discount program for the AIBC, is currently presenting a mortgage renewal contest. EMC provides mortgage renewals at significantly reduced rates. AIBC registrants who renew their mortgage with EMC will be automatically entered, with prizes increasing along with AIBC participation. The draw date has been extended to ensure everyone gets a chance to enter.
It is applicable to valid mortgages of any size. The contest closes on May 15, 2009. Click here or contact Ama Joppa at (604) 739-0320.
If you submit your renewal registration before May 31st, you not only get your name in the draw for fabulous prizes, but also a $5.00 Starbuck’s gift certificate.
The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) has disciplined eight Architect Registration Examination candidates for posting examination content on the internet. In doing so, NCARB affirmed that the disclosure of ARE content diminishes the reliability and defensibility of the exam, and ultimately undermines the integrity of the process, something it takes very seriously. NCARB - comprised of architectural registration boards of all 50 American states as well as those of the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands - assists its member boards in providing a certification program for individual architects. The ARE is designed to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public by providing a psychometrically justifiable and legally defensible process that measures the level of competence necessary to practice independently. ARE candidates are required to sign a confidentiality agreement, and examination guidelines spell out the consequences of cheating. All eight in questions have had their exam testing privileges suspended for periods ranging from three to five years. Five also had their exam scores cancelled. The disciplinary actions become part of each individual’s permanent NCARB record. Click here to see the related media release.
The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) is updating its Intern Development Program (IDP) requirements to more closely align with the current practice of architecture. The new program requirements, which will be rolled out as “IDP 2.0,” will help ensure that interns acquire the comprehensive training that is essential for competent practice, and will make reporting experience fundamentally easier. The first phase of the three-phase program introduction happens this July. Detailed information is available through the NCARB webs site: http://www.ncarb.org/.
The Creative City Network of Canada has released a special report on cultural infrastructure to assist Canadian municipalities plan for renovations and new building projects. The document, Cultural Infrastructure: An Integral Component of Canadian Communities, is based on international and national research. The Creative City Network of Canada, which provides professional development and research for cultural development administrators, will be is being distributing the report to municipalities across the country. For additional information, go to www.creativecity.ca.
The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada – BC Chapter invites you to attend “aRchitecture: futuRe possibilities: our enviRonment, ouR Responsibility". This presentation will be moderated by Dr. Ray Cole MRAIC, and will feature speakers Teresa Coady FRAIC, Veronica Gillies MRAIC and Eva Matsuzaki FRAIC. Tickets are $25 for MRAICs, $35 for non-MRAICs, and $10 for students. Admission for MRAIC student associates is free. It takes place May 26, 2009 at the University of British Columbia Robson Square, 800 Robson Street in Vancouver. Seating is limited so register early. Please r.s.v.p. to bc@raic.org, and visit http://members.raic.org/courses.php for payment.
The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada has developed a new document to support the profession. A Guide to Determining Appropriate Fees for the Services of an Architect is designed for both clients and architects, and meant to assist in establishing fees across Canada. RAIC members are requested to review the document, test the proposed percentage-based fees using actual projects, and submit any suggestions to practiceadvisor@raic.org before May 1, 2009. The document will be revised accordingly, then published to coincide with this June’s Festival of Architecture and Forum in Montréal. To access the document, click here.
The Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes (CCBFC) invites AIBC members — as stakeholders in the national construction codes — to take part in a special public review to deal with a single subject: the relocation of building design requirements from the 2005 National Fire Code of Canada (NFC) to the 2005 National Building Code of Canada (NBC), along with the addition of appropriate cross-referencing between the two documents. No new technical changes are being proposed; the proposed changes are aimed at drawing a clear line between the roles of the NFC and the NBC. The national building, fire and plumbing codes developed by the CCBFC are model codes that provinces and territories can adopt as is or with modifications as part of their building, fire and plumbing regulations. The public review is one of the main steps in the process for developing these national code documents, providing a nation-wide forum where anyone can comment on the changes proposed. This public review will run from April 6 until May 29, 2009 on the National Codes web site (www.nationalcodes.ca).
The Future of the Region Sustainability Dialogues and Sustainability Community Breakfasts are outreach components of Metro Vancouver’s Sustainable Region Initiative (SRI). They involve a series of high-profile debates and discussions intended to help decision makers shape the future of the region by presenting a range of views and stimulating fresh thought on regional issues such as housing, industry, labour and immigration, drugs and crime, regional economy, transportation, energy and agriculture. For more information, visit: http://www.metrovancouver.org/region/dialogues/Pages/default.aspx.
Sustainability Community BreakfastsTopic: Metro Vancouver 2040: Metro Vancouver’s Draft Regional Growth Strategy
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
7:00 – 9:30 a.m.
British Columbia Institute of Technology Downtown Vancouver Campus, 555 Seymour StreetThe Metro Vancouver region could grow by over 1.2 million people and 600,000 jobs over the next 30 years. Metro Vancouver 2040 proposes actions and strategies to accommodate this growth while continuing to advance the regions livability and sustainability. This special public consultation breakfast invites participants to learn about the goals, strategies and actions found within Metro Vancouver 2040, and to provide input on this plan for future growth of the region.
To register, go to http://apps2.metrovancouver.org/sustainability/Smailing_list/EventRegistration.asp?EventID=5.
SRI Public ConsultationsThroughout 2009, Metro Vancouver will be hosting public meetings this spring for lower mainland residents to discuss issues critical to the future of the region, specifically:
- reducing the garbage we produce;
- dealing with sewage; and
- managing growth in the region.
The focus of the Spring Series, which runs from April 1to May 27 in communities throughout the Lower Mainland, is on the Zero Waste Challenge, Liquid Waste Management and the Regional Growth Strategy. Both breakfast and evening sessions, along with regional forums, will be held. For a detailed list of meeting dates, times and locations, click here. Attend a session in your area, join the discussion and give your ideas. To secure a seat, pre-registration is encouraged. If you would like to provide feedback but are unable to attend a meeting, please send your comments to icentre@metrovancouver.org. The deadlines for feedback are: Zero Waste Challenge - May 1; Liquid Waste Management - May 15; Regional Growth Strategy - May 22.,For more information including copies of the draft plans, please visit www.metrovancouver.org or call (604) 432-6200.
Several works completed by Okanagan-area architects will be presented at the Penticton Art Gallery from May 15 – June 19. The exhibit features projects completed by architects working and living in a common Canadian landscape – a valley defined by its desert climate, bountiful lakes, pine forests and blue sky. Many of these projects have been recognized with Governor General and Lieutenant Governor awards. The exhibit aims to advance public knowledge of quality design, and to highlight the architect’s role in enhancing communities and improving lives. For more information, click here.
The B.C. Recreation and Parks Association invites you to take part in 2009 Move for Health Day on Sunday, May 10. Since 2002, the World Health Organization has promoted Move for Health Day as a global day of physical activity. Communities across the province will be holding a variety of fun, active events to celebrate the occasion. Last year, more than 68,000 British Columbians took part in active events; this year’s goal is 70,000. Reach out to members of your community and support them in getting out, getting active and having fun at your local events. Be sure to register you event and order your free BCRPA materials and giveaways online at http://www.bcrpa.bc.ca/mfhd/register.htm. Active Communities grant applications are also available.
The Homeowner Protection Office invites lower mainland AIBC registrants to attend two upcoming presentations of its Spring 2009 Building Smart seminar. Titled “Airtightness in Residential Construction”, this seminar will provide information on air barriers, the impact of airtightness on building performance, and its role in comfort, air quality and energy usage. The presentation will include step-by-step construction details in wood frame and other construction methods. Each participant will receive a presentation guide and certificate of completion. The cost is $35 (GST included). Sandwiches and light refreshments will be served. Participants must register and pay in advance, and a48-hour cancellation notice is required. Register at http://www.hpo.bc.ca/About/New.php.
Vancouver
Wednesday, May 13, 5:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Science World at TELUS World of Science, 1455 Quebec StreetSurrey
Thursday, May 21, 5:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Compass Point Inn, 9850 King George Highway
AIBC registrants are invited to attend the graduation show for the 2009 class from the British Columbia Institute of Technology’s Interior Design Program. It happens on Thursday, May 7, 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at 1038 Homer Street, Vancouver. The show will feature folios, drawings and other work from graduating students. Food and refreshments will also be provided. This event is open to architectural and design firms as well as suppliers and potential employers. Don’t miss this opportunity to view current work and meet potential hires.
The Creative City Network of Canada has issued a Call for Presentations for its upcoming conference in Fredericton, New Brunswick, September 9-11, 2009. Researchers, academics and practitioners are invited to submit an abstract detailing a research paper, case study or recent planning initiative on a topic relevant to CCNC conference delegates. Relevant topics include but are not limited to:
Abstracts are to be submitted by e-mail to: ccnc09@creativecity.ca by June 1, 2009. For details and a submission form, visit http://www.creativecity.ca/conference-events/index.html.
The Cultural Development Network and the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University are pleased to present "ReGenerating Community: Arts, Community and Governance National Conference" this coming September in Melbourne, Australia. This international conference will discuss local governments responses to creating new models of civic engagement. Submissions for conference papers and presentation are now being accepted. Conference themes include:
For additional information including the Call for Presentations
form, visit the conference web site at http://www.cdn-generations.net.au/conference.htm
The Vancouver International Film Centre invites AIBC registrants to a sneak preview of “Malls R Us”, a film that examines North America's most popular and profitable suburban destination: the enclosed shopping center. The documentary combines nostalgia, dazzling architecture, pop culture, economics and politics, including visits to some of the world's largest and most spectacular malls, and interviews with architects, mall developers, sales managers, environmentalists, labor activists and social critics, as well as mall shoppers themselves. “Malls R Us” discusses the psychological appeal of malls to consumers, how architects design their environments to combine consumerism with nature and spectacle, how suburban shopping centers impart social values, and how malls are transforming the traditional notions of community, social space and human interaction. Two advanced showings will take place on Wednesday, May 6 at 6:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. only at Vancity Theatre, 1181 Seymour Street, Vancouver. Adult tickets are $10, and can be purchased in advance on-line at www.vifc.org or in person 30 minutes before show time. As a registered non-profit society, the VIFC screens films that may not have been seen by the B.C. Film Classification Board. Under B.C. law, any person wishing to see these unclassified films must belong to the VIFC Society and be 18 years or older. A VIFC basic membership costs $2, and is valid for one year from the date of purchase. For more on “Malls R Us”, visit http://www.mallsrusmovie.com.
As part of the ongoing enhancement of programs to prepare graduates for successful careers as technologists, the Architectural and Building Engineering Technology Program (ABET) at the British Columbia Institute of Technology is conducting a curriculum review. As part of the process, it has prepared an on-line survey to collect program information from the employers who hire BCIT grads so that industry needs can be addressed in future ABET programming. Similar information will be collected from recent graduates using another on-line survey. AIBC members are respectfully requested to take a few moments to complete the survey in order to assist in meeting the objective. Here is a link that will take you to the survey: http://survey.bcit.ca/wsb.dll/s/8g95. To access the link, you may need to copy and paste the entire link into a new web browser window. Please submit your survey responses no later than May 15, 2009. Your participation in this process is very important and truly appreciated.
AIBC registrants are invited to participate in a unique workshop presented by B.C. Recreation and Parks Association and Green Communities Canada as part of the Canadian Walking Master Class 2009. A team of world walking leaders and local experts will host this one-day session in Metro Vancouver. Participants will learn about current practice internationally, nationally and locally, and participate in an examination of walking environments in Metro Vancouver. This workshop will be of benefit to professionals from a diversity of disciplines including architecture, planning, engineering, health, recreation, policing, education, tourism, business and community development. To find out more and to register, go to http://www.physicalactivitystrategy.ca/index.php/beat/events/
Are you interested in giving yourself and your company a highly visible presence at the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver? The Pacific Northwest Economic Region invites you to be part of the Pacific Northwest Regional Pavilion. The pavilion will be a virtual village of displays and interactive experiences, the premier vehicle for Pacific Northwest businesses and governments in reaching over 3 billion Olympic viewers worldwide, along with foot traffic of around 1.5 million people. While driving tourism and business investment, its overall theme is the support of sustainable development. It presents an unprecedented opportunity to showcase local innovation, sustainability practices, companies and people. Investment opportunities range from $50,000 to $150,000. For more information, visit www.2010pavilion.com.
The next event in the Summit magazine series of workshops on challenges in public procurement is being held in B.C. “Managing Construction and Other Major Projects is designed to help you deal with investment opportunities for rebuilding municipalities. Discussion leaders Steve Bauld (former city manager of the City of Hamilton and now VP of the Ontario General Contractors Association) and Kevin McGuinness, (a lawyer with Ontario's Attorney General) have strong backgrounds in public procurement and will share their expertise with practitioners at all levels of government. In addition, Manley McLachlan (President of the BC Construction Association) will also be a guest speaker. Topics for the day include:
This unique opportunity is presented in partnership between Summit magazine and the BC Institute of the Purchasing Management Association of Canada (PMAC). The workshop will be held on Monday, May 4, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. at the Ramada Guildford in Surrey. The cost for PMAC and BCCA Members is $475 + GST; Non-members' fee is $575 + GST. This includes lunch, conference materials, and two take-away books. Seating is limited seating, so please sign up early. Contact mcegalbreath@summitconnects.com or exec@bci-pmac.bc.ca for more information.
Mike Harcourt will speak on Working Towards a Sustainable Future” on June 2, 7:00 p.m. at Evergreen Cultural Centre, Coquitlam. For more information, go to http://www.coquitlam.ca/Residents/Recreation+and+Community/Coquitlam+Leadership+Speaker+Series.htm.
Vancouver Heritage Foundation Old School Courses
for Building Conservation
Whether you already work with existing buildings or would like to increase your knowledge about heritage conservation, this program offers certification, learning credits and invaluable content specific to older buildings. It is especially relevant to: architects, designers, engineers, contractors, renovators, trades people, realtors, planners, appraisers, building managers, inspectors, do-it-yourselfers and Homeowners. The next course - Heritage 101: Understanding Heritage Conservation - takes place on Saturday, May 2, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. The cost is $100. Visit http://www.vancouverheritagefoundation.org/oldschool.html for details
The Canadian Federation of University Women - West Vancouver is hosting a special presentation on The B.C. Binning House and Gardens: A National Historic Site. Designed and built in 191 by artist B.C. Binning, this home is considered to be a leading example of West Coast modernism. This event happens on Sunday, May 3 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Speakers include Darrin Morrison, Curator - West Vancouver Museum, Abraham Rogatnick and architectural writer Adele Weder. Tickets are $75 with proceeds going to the land Conservancy of B.C. - Binning House Endowment Fund and the CFUW - WV Educational Trust Architecture or Design Student Award program. It includes refreshments and entertainment. For more information call (604) 925-8445 or e-mail cfuw.westvan@gmail.com
The University Women's Club of Vancouver - Hycroft is holding an open house on Tuesday, June 9 at 5:30 p.m. This event will highlight Hycroft, a magnificent Italianate mansion built in 1909 at a cost of $10,000. Hycroft was constructed of concrete with 30 rooms on three floors, 13 bathrooms, a magnificent ballroom, a mirrored bar, and a wine cellar able to hold 2000 bottles. Thomas Hooper, the original architect, incorporated into the house many elements of classical Renaissance style along with some beaux-arts details. Charles Marega did the ornamental plaster-work on the ceiling and the friezes in the drawing room. Many other highlights will be featured as part of the house tour. To register, please contact Administrative Assistant Rosie On by phone (604-731- 4661) or e-mail (rosie@uwcvancouver.ca). Additional information is available online at www.uwcvancouver.ca.
The Society for the Study of Architecture in Canada is holding its 36th Annual Conference at Toronto's Ryerson University from May 20-24, 2009. Titled From Theory into Practice: Thinking Critically About Architecture, History and Theory, its goal is to stimulate debate and discussion on the role of history and theory in the making of architecture in Canada. The theme also presents a challenge for participants to consider the study of architecture from a number of different perspectives. For more information and to register, visit http://www.canada-architecture.org/conference09.php
The National Research Council has obtained funding for several initiatives on indoor air quality under the federal government's Clean Air Agenda. The ultimate outcome of the Indoor Air Initiative will be to reduce the effects of inadequate indoor air on the health of Canadians. One of the key activities has been the establishment of the Canadian Committee on Indoor Air Quality and Buildings (CCIAQB). Its mandate includes reviewing relevant information, identifying gaps and issues, sharing information, and developing best practices. Because the primary focus of the committee is indoor air quality as it relates to the design and operations of buildings and buildings systems, it was deemed critical to seek the participation of primary stakeholders in those areas - namely designers and operators of buildings and systems - as well as those directly affected by issues related to health and buildings. Although a specific format for participation has not yet been identified, the committee has envisaged that it could include attending meetings as observers, presentations from interested professionals, responding to questionnaires on particular issues, and providing feedback on committee discussions, papers and reports, possibly through an interactive website. As such, the committee is looking for expressions of interest from stakeholders interested in joining this extended network of collaborators. Please submit your EOI and a point of contact by May 15, 2009. For more information, please contact Luc Saint-Martin by e-mail (Luc.Saint-Martin@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca) or phone (613-993-7844). To access the committee minutes, including a list of current members, go to ftp://contact.irc.nrc.ca/outgoing/CCIAQB%20Documentation/. For more information on the NRC's Indoor Air Initiative, please visit http://irc.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/ie/iaq/initiative_e.html
The Society of Graphic Designers of Canada (GDC), BC Industrial Designer’s Association and the Association of Canadian Industrial Designers invite you to the Vancouver premier of Gary Hustwit’s documentary film, “Objectified. This feature-length documentary examines our complex relationship with manufactured objects and, by extension, the people who design them. It looks at the creativity at work behind everything from toothbrushes to tech gadgets. It is about the designers who re-examine, re-evaluate and re-invent our manufactured environment on a daily basis. It's also about personal expression, identity, consumerism, and sustainability. Through vérité footage and in-depth conversations, the film documents the creative processes of some of the world's most influential product designers, and looks at how the things they make impact our lives. This showing takes place Tuesday, May 5, at the Rio Theatre, 1660 East Broadway. The scheduled 6:30 p.m. showing has sold out so a second 9:30 p.m. showing has been added. Hustwit will be part of a post-film discussion. Tickets are $20 and available through the film's web site: http://www.objectifiedfilm.com/special-screening-in-vancouver/
May 11-17, 2009.The third annual spring Bike to Work Week, a seven-day celebration of commuter cycling organized by the Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition. The benefits are obvious: it’s part of a healthy lifestyle, easy on the pocketbook, efficient in the city, and provides a wake-up call that coffee can’t rival. Get your workplace involved by registering a team and recruiting co-workers for the online competition. There are prizes for the teams that log the most kilometres, commutes, and participation, as well as daily prize draws. There is also a wrap-up barbeque on Friday, May 15, with free food, entertainment, and the chance to meet and greet thousands of city cyclists. It takes place from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the TELUS World of Science. Make the switch towards a cleaner, more sustainable form of transportation. To get more information and sign up , visit http://vacc.bc.ca/bike/bike.php?pageID=25.
The Vancouver Art Gallery is pleased to present an exhibition by renowned German photographer Andreas Gursky. The VAG will be the only North American museum to present Andreas Gursky: Werke/Works 80-08, the largest and most comprehensive exhibition of his remarkable career. Gursky’s photographs are celebrated as some of the most compelling images of our modern world, emphasizing the individual human’s insignificance relative to the built and natural environment. This 130-work exhibition will be on view from May 30 to September 20, 2009.
Sign up now for EPIC: The Vancouver Sun Sustainable Living Expo taking place May 8-10, 2009 at the new Vancouver Convention Centre. This event, Western Canada's only green living expo and eco-marketplace, is designed to educate and inspire consumers to live healthier, support green businesses, and do their part to save the planet. More than 80% of exhibit space has already been sold. Go to www.epicvancouver.com
The 26th Passive and Low Energy Conference (PLEA) will be held June 21-24, 2009 at Laval University’s School of Architecture, in Québec City. In the current context of important technological developments in the fields of alternative materials and energy, the aim of this year’s conference is to position users’ behavior as a key “active” determinant of energy performance in “passive” design through adaptive opportunities. PLEA2009 particularly addresses the applicability of passive design strategies in extreme climates, improving occupants’ satisfaction and encouraging environmental diversity whilst minimizing environmental impacts. Acclaimed keynote speakers and more than 160 presentations will offer the most recent thoughts and researches in the rapidly evolving world of low energy architecture. Experience three days of animated talks and debates about the Challenges, Strategies and Integration from the occupant’s perspective as it relates to truly low energy architecture and community planning. The deadline for early bird registration is May 1. For more information, go to http://www.plea2009.arc.ulaval.ca/E/program.html
Discover how Autodesk® 2010 software can turn your "what if" design scenarios into a reality. This information-packed event will address how to:
Participate in several informative sessions, including Take Design Further: Lynn Allen's AutoCAD 2010 Tips & Techniques, and learn how AutoCAD 2010 delivers groundbreaking new capabilities to tackle the most challenging design problems with ease. In addition, participants will see a range of solutions in action through various industry sessions, including design and intelligent modeling solutions from Autodesk® Inventor® software, Revit® software, AutoCAD® Map 3D software and Autodesk® 3ds Max® software. These presentations are ideally suited for architects, CAD managers, civil engineers, drafters, electrical controls engineers, government agencies, MEP engineers, mechanical engineers, product designers and design engineers. The Vancouver event takes place on Thursday, May 7. Registration is free, but space is limited. Go to www.autodesk.com/live
The Homeowners Protection Office invites you to attend its upcoming “Building Smart” workshop. Building Smart #11: Airtightness in Residential Construction will address changes in homeowner expectations relating to energy efficiency and the environment, and that will influence the houses are designed and built. Residential buildings are complex structures that integrate many building systems to produce a safe and comfortable space, and the air barrier is one of the most complex of these building systems. This seminar will provide information on air barriers, the impact of airtightness on building performance, and its role in comfort, air quality and energy usage. Presenter Murray Frank of Constructive Home Solutions Inc. is an industry expert who is also a college instructor in building science. His 2.5 hour presentation, which will include step-by-step construction details in wood frame and other methods of construction, will be of interest to builders, designers and building professionals in general. Each participant will receive a presentation guide and a certificate of completion. Workshops are scheduled for:
May 12 Langford
May 20 Kamloops
May 11 Victoria
May 21 Surrey
May 13 Vancouver
May 25 Cranbrook
May 14 Terrace
May 26 Castlegar
May 19 Kelowna
May 27 Penticton
The recent incursion of the Ontario provincial government into regulatory bodies raises questions about Canadian bodies’ right to self-regulate. Are these incursions a potential threat to this right? How can bodies preserve self-regulation while complying with government mandates? The Professional Associations Research Network (PARN), an international network of professional bodies, is hosting a workshop in Toronto on Tuesday June 23, 2009. It will include presentations and discussion that will focus on how regulatory colleges can preserve self-regulation, and the perceived threats to self-regulation. It will also look at self-regulation from an international perspective with discussion of preliminary results from the Professional Associations Research Network (PARN) Professional Bodies International Benchmark Survey. The second part of the program will raise the issues of volunteer management, understanding volunteers and maximizing volunteer contributions. Topic areas will include: using volunteers as “experts” and for specific projects or task forces; the most effective induction and training for volunteers; and the issues in relations between volunteers and staff. Speakers include:
For detailed information and to register, go to http://clients.enablermail.com/el/files/54/toronto%20program%20design%202.pdf
The annual symposium of the British Columbia Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA) will take place on May 27 – 29, 2009, at the Telus Conference Centre in Whistler, B.C. In keeping with the BCRPA’s mandate of promoting sustainability and healthy lifestyles, this year’s theme is “Strength in CommUNITY”. The symposium will feature educational sessions, speaker presentations, tradeshow opportunities, and social events. The annual conference draws more than 500 delegates whose professional backgrounds include government officials, city planners, program directors, and recreation enthusiasts. Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are still available. Please visit www.bcrpa.bc.ca for more details or to register.
The 2009 BC Land Summit takes place May 20-22, 2009, in Whistler. It also serves at the annual conference for the British Columbia Lnadscape Architects Association. With an overall theme of A Better Future: Adapting to Change, this year’s event features four broad sub-themes: Changing Place & Space; Changing Environments; A World of Change; and Change in Motion. There will be four plenary sessions, four roundtables, nearly a dozen mobile workshop tours, and more than 60 concurrent sessions. Featured speakers include environmental activist Robert Kennedy, Jr., urban design and public space consultant Sherry Kafka Wagner, and former British Columbia Supreme Court Justice Thomas Berger, OC, QC, OBC. For detailed program information and to register, go to http://www.bclandsummit.com
AIBC registrants are invited to sign up for the Executing Social Media Masterclass 2009, which will be offered in both Vancouver (May 4-5) and Victoria (May 7-8). As today's communication landscape continues to morph, this unique series of social media courses will focus on how organizations can leverage social media to achieve business goals. Learn more about new and innovative social media and eCommunication tools, techniques, and technologies, including their impact on traditional advertising and marketing, the mainstream media, and employee communications. Discover how to utilize social media with employees, customers, colleagues and competitors to sell services, build relationships, engage employees, and strengthen your brand. These informal, intimate and highly interactive classes offer a valuable opportunity to hear perspectives, share experiences, and identify best practices. For more information or to register, call (416) 238-2751. Click here to download the program and registration form.
The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, Ordre des architectes du Québec and Association of Architects in Private Practice of Quebec are pleased to announce the launch of the website for the 2009 Festival of Architecture and Forum, June 17-20 in Montreal. The theme of this year’s festival is “Vision and Commitment,” acknowledging the unique and significant contribution the profession makes to solving the environmental and economic problems faced in this century. For a sneak peak at the keynote speakers, events, and other conference-related opportunities prior to registration in March, visit the site at http://festival2009.raic.org/index_e.htm.
The IDSWest web site (www.idswest.com)
is now live and will be constantly updated with features, speakers, design
news and happenings from a West Coast perspective. Planning is well underway
for the event, which takes place September 17 - 20, 2009 at the Vancouver
Convention & Exhibition Centre. The 2009 show will introduce a variety
of space concepts and feature areas focusing on pushing the boundaries
of local and international design and architecture. Special sections include:
Designers on the Block – dedicated space for up-and-coming designers, providing an opportunity to get their feet wet by displaying in small, pre-built structures.
Stories Behind Design – showcasing the lesser known stories that help shape many of the designs on display.
Exhibition space at this prestigious trade show is also available.
Contact Jason Heard (jheard@mmart.com) to secure your preferred location and take advantage of promotional benefits.
Do you know someone whose work and dedication in preserving and promoting Canada's rich architectural heritage merits recognition? Nominations are currently being accepted for the Heritage Canada Foundation Awards. These include:
The nomination deadline is May 8, 2009. For information on nomination procedures, please contact Carolyn Quinn at cquinn@heritagecanada.org or visit the Heritage Canada Foundation website at http://www.heritagecanada.org/eng/services/awards.html.
Recommendations are now being accepted for the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. This awards program, established in 1977 by His Highness the Aga Khan, recognizes architectural excellence that encompass contemporary design, social housing, community improvement and development, restoration, re-use, and area conservation, as well as landscaping and environmental issues. The award embraces all types of building projects that affect today’s environments, ranging from modest small-scale interventions to major complexes and urban or regional design. Recommendations for nomination may include initiatives for housing, community and neighbourhood projects, and those that focus on urban areas and issues. Projects may also address infrastructure, transportation, industry, offices and commercial facilities, and educational and health facilities. Eligible projects must be designed for or used by Muslim communities, in part or in whole, wherever they are located. Submissions are especially encouraged in three under-represented categories: rural development, industry and places of work, and public spaces (small and large). This award cycle will focus on projects completed during the six-year period from 2003 through 2008. Eligible projects must have been completed and in use for at least one full year between January 1, 2003 and December 31, 2008. Projects that are not yet fully completed – such as urban design, area conservation, and community upgrading schemes – are also eligible so long as a tangible portion has been completed and the potential success of the project can be demonstrated.” Architects and other project personnel may submit their own projects for consideration. This is an international program; individuals everywhere are encouraged to submit recommendations. For detailed information, visit http://www.akdn.org/akaa.asp.
The Toronto Society of Architects, in association with the Canada Green Building Council – Greater Toronto Chapter (CaGBC-GTC) and the Design Industry Advisory Committee (DIAC), invites submissions for its 2009 Green Poster Design Competition. The purpose of the competition is to produce an image that draws attention to the value of green design, and that illustrates how design can enhance economic, social, and ecological sustainability. The competition is open to everyone, including students and professional artists. Participants must register by May 1, 2009, and submissions (electronic only) are due by May 15, 2009. Posters must be A1 size (594 x 841 mm / 23.4 x 33.1 inches), and designs may use any form of photography, illustration, collage, or typography, provided no copyrights are violated in the design. Cash prizes will be awarded to the three top winners. Judging is scheduled for May 22, 2009. For full details, including a copy of the competition brief, visit the TSA website at http://www.torontosocietyofarchitects.ca/?q=node/94.
If buildings sprang up suddenly out of the ground like mushrooms, their rooftops would be covered with a layer of soil and plants. That's not how humans build, of course. Instead we scrape away the earth, erect the structure itself, and cap it with a rainproof, presumably forgettable, roof. It's tempting to say that the roofscape of every city on this planet is a man-made desert, except that a desert is a living habitat. The truth is harsher. The urban roofscape is a little like hell—a lifeless place of bituminous surfaces, violent temperature contrasts, bitter winds, and an antipathy to water. More …
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