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THis fall, Azure magazine offers special promotions to AIBC registrants. More...
October 1, 2010
In Passing: Roy Meiklejohn
Roy Wesley Meiklejohn, Retired Architect, passed away on Thursday, September 16, 2010 at the age of 87. Roy was born in 1923 in Provost, Alberta and grew up on the prairies. In 1942, he joined the Canadian Army, serving as quartermaster of Vernon Camp. It was during that time that he developed his love for the Okanagan and interest in becoming an architect. He, along with classmate and future wife Carol Strum, acquired a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Manitoba in 1951. In 1953 they opened their own firm in Penticton, the same year Roy became an AIBC member. Over the next 50 years, he teamed up to establish additional offices in Cranbrook, Kamloops, Kelowna and Vernon. Partnerships included Meiklejohn & Lamont Architects; Meiklejohn, Lamont & Gower Architects; Meiklejohn & Gower Architects; and Meiklejohn Bevanda Meiklejohn Architects. Always active in his community, Roy served as chairman of the Penticton Planning Commission and the Community Arts Council, and was one of the founders of Apex Mountain Ski Resort. He also founded the AIBC’s first Interior Chapter. Roy retired in 2001. He is survived by Carol, his wife of 59 years, brother Allan, sisters Gladys and Edith, and sons Duncan, Russ, Cal and Jim. Roy passed on his passion for architecture to his sons, three of whom chose a similar career path. Those wishing to make donations in Roy’s honour may do so to the Canadian Diabetic Association. A celebration of Roy’s life will be held on Saturday, October 16, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. at the Ramada Inn, 1050 Eckhart Avenue West, Penticton.
Pram in the Hall
The latest instalment of Pram in the Hall interviews is now available on the AIBC web site. The Pram in the Hall series offers personal perspectives on the challenges faced by architects in combining work life with parenting. More...
Mentor Roll Call
The AIBC is compiling a list of members how are interested and available to act as mentors for new Intern Architects and foreign-trained architects. This is an opportunity to serve as a professional resource and role model for future architects while enhancing your connection with the AIBC’s Intern Architect Program. Learning works both ways; as mentor to an IA, you are also eligible one self-reported, non-core learning unit per IA, per year under the Professional Service category. Please submit a registration form if you are interested in adding your name to the mentor roster. Your information will be included on a list and made available to interested IAs and foreign-trained architects. Should you change your mind, you may contact the AIBC at any time and have your name removed from the roster. For more information, contact Registration and Licensing Administration Assistant Emily Tyler at etyler@aibc.ca.
Oral Reviews
The AIBC will be hosting its next set of oral reviews on October 20 and 21, 2010. Oral reviews are open to those Intern Architects who have:
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completed and logged at least 2800 hours; and
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completed the required AIBC courses.
Eligibility will be confirmed by the Registration & Licensing department. Click here to view complete details and to download the application form. NOTE: application, letter from your employer and oral review application fee must be received by October 11, 2010. If you have any questions regarding the oral review process or the application for registration, please contact Registration & Licensing Administration Assistant Emily Tyler at etyler@aibc.ca.
Save the Date:
2011 AIBC / Architecture Canada Conference and Festival of Architecture
May 24 – 27, 2011
Vancouver Convention Centre
Save the date for next year’s AIBC Annual Conference, held in conjunction with Architecture Canada’s annual Festival of Architecture. Over four days, this event will bring together architects and allied professionals from across the province and around the country. The conference / festival theme, Architecture on the Edge, acknowledges the many ways in which west coast architects continue to push the boundaries in such areas as form and design, sustainability, community development and social awareness. Further information will be posted beginning this Fall; please check back regularly: www.aibc.ca.
Bulletin 61 (Second Edition): Seal of an Architect
The August 2010 revision to AIBC Bulletin 61 is now published and in effect (click here). This substantive revision provides comprehensive, practical advice and interpretation regarding the use of the architect’s seal, including specifying which instruments of service must be sealed, such as development permit drawings. The revision replaces the first (1994) edition of AIBC Bulletin 61 and Directors Chair 004 - An Architect’s Seal: Its Care & Control. The architect’s seal is a solemn confirmation and representation to the public that the architect who applied it not only takes responsibility for the document, but that the document was prepared by that architect under his/her direct supervision and control. The use of the seal is governed by the Architects Act, as supplemented by AIBC Bylaw and AIBC Council rulings found in the Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. For information and advice on the electronic seal option, consult AIBC Bulletin 60: Signature, Seal and Delivery of Electronic Documents. Feedback and questions are welcome to the attention of Professional Conduct Coordinator Gayle Roberts at groberts@aibc.ca.
Formal Responses to Questions and Concerns Expressed Publicly at the 2010 AIBC Annual Meeting
During the AIBC Annual Meeting on Saturday, May 8, 2010, some members raised questions and/or made assertions for which formal responses are in order. Those responses have now been formulated and provided to the originating parties. Given the nature of the questions and concerns raised before membership in a public venue, they are also being made available to all registrants, by clicking on the items below:
2010/2011 AIBC Council Priorities and Working Groups
Following an extensive planning session, the newly-elected AIBC Council has identified four main initiatives for the coming year. Each is of significance to the future directions of the institute and the well-being of the profession. More...
Alert: Mandatory Training Programs
Recently, the AIBC has heard from firms concerned about the marketing of certain occupational safety and health training or professional development offerings. In at least one case, high-pressure tactics were used to induce a firm into signing on, including untrue statements that the training was mandatory under provincial labour laws. The institute has followed up with WorkSafe BC, which has confirmed that one or more private sector service providers may be misleading businesses into signing up for training programs that are not mandated by law. The matter is now being investigated on a national level by occupational health and safety authorities.
Members and firms are reminded to be wary of exaggerated claims made by any potential service provider, and to follow up with the proper authority or seek independent advice to confirm claims regarding mandatory training of any kind.
Fine-tuning Your Practice: The Practice Consultation Service Answered your Questions at This Year’s Annual Conference
The AIBC Practice Consultation Service has proven to be a great success, providing feedback to firms of all ages and size with respect to their standard office practices and addressing questions relating to a variety of firm management topics. In kind, participating firms have provided their own valuable reflections on the process itself. The PCS has afforded them with a unique opportunity to step back and examine “the bigger picture”, and to ask more detailed questions relating to everyday practice management concerns.
At this year’s AIBC Annual Conference, the Practice Consultation Service Committee addressed a number of these questions in an open forum that promoted dialogue between Practice Consultants and fellow architects. Roundtable discussions offered the opportunity for attendees to share their own knowledge of design firm management relating to Digital Media & Information Management; Management of Projects (Process & Resources); and RFPs and Client/Consultant Agreements.
The feedback from the sessions has been overwhelmingly positive, with members citing it as an excellent opportunity to engage consultants directly as well as listen to the experiences of other fellow colleagues.
As a useful introduction to some of the topics that may be covered during a practice consultation, please take a look at the Practice Self-Assessment Rating Form available for download on the AIBC web site:
http://aibc.ca/member_resources/practice/pdf/4.1_PCS_PSARF.pdf
To learn more about the PCS or to schedule a practice consultation, please contact Director of Professional Services Maura Gatensby MAIBC by phone (604-683-8588; ext. 334) or e-mail (mgatesnby@aibc.ca).
BEEP Module II Building Science: Theory, Design and Practice
Note: this two-day course has been rescheduled to October 14-15, 2010. For course description go to http://www.aibc.ca/member_resources/professional_dev/index.html and click on Building Envelope Education Program courses. To register, please fax or mail your completed registration form to Professional Development Coordinator Aleta Cho, #100 - 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 2N5, or e-mail to acho@aibc.ca. Please do not attempt to register on-line.
12 Core LUs
Building Envelope Education Program Course Registration
For those registrants wishing to complete the AIBC’s Building Envelope Education Program (BEEP), now is your chance. Follow the link http://www.aibc.ca/member_resources/professional_dev/index.html and check out the course descriptions and scheduled dates. You can also access it from the AIBC home page. Click on "Course Registration" under Quick Links and register online. These courses are only offered once a year, so don’t miss out.
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 2010 PD/CES Course Schedule and Registration Form are available online at www.aibc.ca/member_resources/professional_dev/index.html.
Cascadia Region Green Building Council
LEED® Canada Documentation
This one-day interactive workshop addresses the LEED® certification process and the tools in place to assist applicants in seeking CaGBC LEED® project certification for new construction. This workshop will address several of the more complex documentation requirements for the LEED® NC 1.0 + addendum as well as the following application guides:
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Multi-Unit Residential Buildings (MURB)
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Campus and Multiple Buildings (CMB)
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Core and Shell (CS)
Due to time constraints, not all documentation requirements will be discussed in detail. Please note that this workshop does not address the NC 2009 documentation process.
It takes place Thursday, October 28, 2010, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Granville Island Hotel, 1253 Johnston Street, Vancouver. For more information or to register, please visit http://cascadiagbc.org/events/2010/october/leed-canada-documentation-course-vancouver/view.
7 Core LUs
Transformational Lecture Series Featuring Sevag Pogharian
The Net Zero Energy Life in Canada
Montreal architect Sevag Pogharian is the principal and founder of Sevag Pogharian Design (SPD), a Montreal-based architectural and general contracting firm specializing in housing. Pogharian is also pushing the borders of net zero buildings by creating the Alstonvale Net Zero House, one of the winning projects in Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s EQuilibrium ™ Sustainable Housing Demonstration Initiative. The Alstonvale Net Zero Home strives to:
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generate all the energy required for the household’s domestic needs;
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generate all the energy required for the household’s local transportation needs; and
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integrate homescale agriculture in order to displace the industrial food system and enhance a household’s food energy balance.
Since its inception in 1990, SPD has evolved from being solely an architectural firm to a design/build firm bridging the domains of architecture and construction with the belief that being a builder makes for a better architect, and vice versa. This lecture will be held in both Kelowna and Vancouver.
Kelowna:
Wednesday, October 27, 2010, 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Rotary Centre for the Arts, Mary Irwin Theatre, 421 Cawston Avenue
For further information or to register, please visit http://cascadiagbc.org/events/2010/october/transformational-lecture-series-kelowna-featuring-sevag-pogharian/view.
Vancouver:
Thursday, October 28, 2010, 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Roundhouse Community Centre, 181 Roundhouse Mews
For further information or to register, please visit http://cascadiagbc.org/events/2010/october/transformational-lecture-series-featuring-sevag-pogharian-vancouver/view.
1.5 Non-core LUs
MMPI
Building Envelope Solutions Conference
Listen to leading experts and speak with exhibitors about building envelope solutions for your building retrofit or construction project. Topics at this one-day conference will include:
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Durable Building Enclosures
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Green, White and Other Sustainable Roofing Alternatives
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High Performance Building Envelopes
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When Building Envelopes Fail, How Can the Indoor Air Quality Be Affected?
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Designing for Envelope Durability and the LEED Durability Credit.
It takes place Wednesday, October 13, 2010 at the Fairmont Hotel, Saturna Island Room, 900 West Georgia Street, Vancouver. For more information or to register, please visit http://www.buildingenvelopeforum.com/pages/Program_Vancouver_2010.asp.
6 Core LUs
Construction Law Primer: Strategies for 2010: Tendering, Risk Management, and Dispute Resolution
Join your colleagues in examining important issues in construction law and best practices to ensure businesses success today and in the future. Topics will include tendering practices and the Supreme Court’s ruling in the Tercon case; contractual details to watch for on your next BIM project; construction lien issues, liabilities; and contracts. A panel of recognized experts will share their knowledge and provide necessary information to prepare yourself for managing the legal complexities of any project; avoiding pitfalls, meeting your objectives, and increasing your profitability. It happens Thursday, October 14, 2010, at the Fairmont Hotel, 900 West Georgia Street, Vancouver. For details or to register, please visit http://constructionlawonline.ca/pages/Home.php.
6 Core LUs
SusainaBUILD Conference 2010
Over the past few years, indoor air quality, mould and moisture problems related to building envelope and ventilation systems have gained a reputation within the construction, design and building management communities as often difficult and complicated issues. There has been a rapid adoption of green building certification systems for new and existing buildings that claim to protect occupant health while achieving climate change objectives. But are all green buildings healthy buildings? This one-day conference will seek to provide answers to this pressing issue by addressing the myths and misconceptions surrounding sustainable green buildings and health in the context of the building envelope and ventilation. It happens Tuesday, November 23, 2010 at the Hyatt Regency Vancouver, 655 Burrard Street. For details or to register, please visit http://www.sustainabuild.com/vancouver/.
Core and Non-core LUs available
Vancouver Heritage Foundation
Old School: Courses for Building Conservation
This fall, the Vancouver Heritage Foundation presents an educational series that explores the strong connection between working with existing buildings and being “green”. These courses explore how repairing, re-using and recycling buildings and their materials can be the least invasive strategies in relation to environmental impact. Participants will also learn what related resources are available in B.C. For more information including a course listings, dates and fees please visit http://www.vancouverheritagefoundation.org/oldschool.html.
Core LUs Available.
Construction Specifications Canada
Principles of Construction Documentation
This ten-week stand alone course is also a prerequisite for the Technical Representative, Specification Writer and Construction Contract Administrator courses. This course is designed for individuals involved in the construction industry who, at any point in their careers, are required to produce, read, supply products for, or rely on, the project manual/specification. In other words, it is designed for anyone in construction, whether they work as a designer, consultant, specifier, contractor or supplier. It is an introductory course that will provide participants with a better understanding of construction documentation (specifications, drawings and schedules), products, bidding procedures and contracts. It is also pre-cursor to all other CSC education courses. Note: new start date of Monday, September 27, 7:00 (sharp) to 9:30 p.m. at the Vancouver Regional Construction Association Boardroom, 3636 East 4th Avenue, Vancouver (off Boundary behind McDonald’s Restaurant on Broadway/Lougheed). The cost is $750 + HST ($650 + HST for CSC members). For details, or to register, please visit http://www.csc-vancouver.ca/or email info@csc-vancouver.ca.
20 Core LUs
SFU City Program
Free Lecture Series: Stewart Brand and "Whole Earth Discipline" — the Eco-pragmatist's Manifesto
Whether you realize it or not, your awareness of the world has been influenced by Stewart Brand. In 1966, convinced an image of Earth might be a powerful symbol, he began campaigning to have NASA release a then-rumoured satellite image of the entire planet as seen from space. In 1968, a NASA astronaut made the photo public. Not coincidentally, Earth Day began to be celebrated in 1970. Today, Brand is on the board of the Santa Fe Institute, and maintains connections with the Electronic Frontier Foundation, Ecotrust, Wired magazine and Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Media Lab. Most recently, he authored Whole Earth Discipline, a provocative book that is likely to make one question the entire range of thinking on the state of the earth and how we should respond. Brand will be speaking at the Milton and Fei Wong Experimental Theatre, SFU Woodwards, 149 West Hastings Street, Vancouver on Monday, October 4, 2010, 7:00 p.m. While admission is free, reservations are required. For more details or to reserve your seat, please visit http://www.sfu.ca/city/fpl3popup.htm.
2 Non-Core LUs
Acting Local: Municipal Government Responses to Climate Change
In addition to development-permit powers, what can local government do to meet ambitious greenhouse-gas reduction targets? This course will use a “climate change” lens to review the broad range of existing local-government bylaws. For instance, do siting regulations prevent the positioning of a building to take maximum advantage of solar exposure? Is there still a bylaw on the books requiring the clearing of vegetation from vacant lots? Are there too many incentives in the zoning bylaw to demolish and replace existing buildings instead of adaptively re-using them? The course will also explore new types of bylaw provisions, describing their scope and potential application to energy or water conservation as well as greenhouse-gas reduction. Other subjects include providing core bylaw wording; identifying typical bylaw drafting and enforcement issues; and providing links to existing local government bylaws. It will also explore what other jurisdictions are doing, so that local government resources can focus on areas where they are uniquely positioned to achieve results. The course takes place Friday, October 22, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Ambrosia Conference and Event Centre, 638 Fisgard Street, Victoria. For more information or to register, please visit http://www.sfu.ca/city/course9popup.htm.
6 Non-core LUs
SFU and City of Surrey Transportation Lecture Program
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to transportation in Metro Vancouver with a particular focus on Surrey. Participants will learn about a wide range of transportation issues, from regional planning of development and land use through to the day-to-day operation and management of transportation systems. The Transportation Lecture Program, the first of its kind in B.C., is an opportunity to learn more about transportation and the role it plays in the shaping and development of a city. It will present a forum to discuss important regional and local transportation issues while providing representatives from the City of Surrey the chance to share their roles in transportation and related services as part of the larger transportation “jig-saw”. In turn, they will also have the opportunity to hear first-hand the issues and priorities that are important to local residents. Sessions take place October 6 to December 1, 2010. Wednesdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at SFU Surrey Campus (Surrey Central Mall). For more details or to register, please visit http://www.sfu.ca/city/course10popup.htm.
27 Non-core LUs
For a complete list of SFU City Program course offerings, please visit http://www.sfu.ca/city/courses.htm.
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)
Annual Housing Outlook Conference
Housing experts will discuss the key factors that impact housing supply and demand, offer up a 2011 forecast for the B.C. economy and Metro Vancouver markets, and examine trends in new home, rental and resale markets that are influencing developers and consumers. Bob Rennie, a leader in the local real estate community, will share his insights into Vancouver's changing condominium market and the integration of sustainable building practices. Participants will also find out about the tools and resources available from CMHC to help build affordable housing. This one-day conference promises important business information to help stay abreast of housing trends and make knowledgeable business decisions for the upcoming year. It takes place Wednesday, November 10, 2010 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Vancouver. CMHC will also be hosting a similar conference in Victoria at the Delta Ocean Pointe Resort and Spa on November 22, 2010. Register by October 13 for a special early bird rate of $230 per person (plus HST). Special group table rates are also available. This event sells out every year so be sure to register early. Go on-line to www.cmhc.ca/conferenceregistration or call 1-800-668-2642.
3 Non-core LUs
Lighthouse Sustainable Building Centre
RETScreen Clean Energy Project Analysis Software Workshop
October 21-22 9.00AM – 5.00PM
Instructor: Doug Horn, Asct CEA LEED AP, Principle, Efficient Resource Solutions
This two-day course provides intermediate training for RETScreen, a software program for clean-energy project analysis. Intended for professionals and university students, this course will help participants to better analyze the technical and financial viability of renewable-energy and energy-efficient technologies. Modules include energy efficiency, renewable energy, and whole building in-depth analysis. Participants will acquire practical project experience through modeling and case studies, and take part in hands-on exercises. No prior experience with RETScreen software is required. Register online at http://retscreenoct21-22.eventbrite.com/ or contact Helen Carruthers at (604) 909-9560 or helenc@sustainablebuildingcentre.com to pay by cash or cheque.
13 Core LUs
BC Hydro Power Smart Forum
BC Hydro’s annual Power Smart Forum takes place October 25-27 at the Vancouver Convention Centre. The theme of this year’s forum, B.C.’s leading energy conservation conference, is Building the Green Economy. New to this year’s program is the opportunity to also attend BC Hydro’s Power Smart Excellence Awards on the evening of October 25. This year, the forum will feature internationally renowned speaker Dr. Thomas Homer-Dixon as well as prominent B.C. business leaders including Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts, BC Business Council CEO Virginia Greene, and Jonathan Rhone, President and CEO of Nexterra Systems. As in previous years, AIBC members have the opportunity to earn learning units for attending sessions. Please visit www.bchydro.com/forum for more information.
Non-core and Core LUs Available
Canadian Wood Council / Wood WORKS! BC
Webinar: The Wood First Act in B.C.
Do you have questions about the new Wood First Act in B.C.? The act, which
received royal assent on October 29, 2009, requires provincially-funded
projects to use wood as the primary construction material where appropriate
and within the BC Building Code. Wood WORKS! BC has been asked to assist
communities with the Wood First Act's “build with wood” requirements,
and is pleased to present this webinar designed to provide answers and
practical information. It features Werner Hofstatter, Wood WORKS! BC
Wood First Advisor who recently served as the Director of the Ministry
of Forest & Range's Wood First Initiative, along with Wood WORKS!
BC technical advisors Peter Moonen and Bill Billups. The webinar is available
online beginning Tuesday, June 15 at 9:30 a.m. Go to www.WoodFirstAct.Info.
1 Core LU
IMAGINiT Technologies
Revit Architecture 2011 BIM Management
Revit Architecture is a powerful Building Information Modeling (BIM) program
that supports the ability to coordinate, update, and share design data
with team members throughout the design, construction, and management
phases. The objective of the Revit Architecture 2011 BIM Management course
is to enable students who have worked with Revit to expand their knowledge
in setting up office standards. Specific topics include setting up templates
with annotation styles, preset views, sheets and schedules, as well as
custom element types and families. By creating standard templates and
custom elements, a key component in the BIM process is to establish a
company foundation for different types of projects. Doing so ensures
that new projects flow smoothly and efficiently. The length of this training
session is one day. Please contact Kam Seignarack of IMAGINiT Technologies
for more information at 604-207-2114 or by e-mail kseignarack@rand.com.
6.5 Core LUs
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: Twenty + Change
Featuring Emerging Canadian Design Practices
Until October 29, 2010
AIBC Gallery: #100 – 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver
Twenty + Change: Emerging Canadian Design Practices features twenty-one emerging firms from across Canada working in architecture, landscape architecture and urban design. These projects rethink urban infrastructure, propose new models for public space and housing, and examine the unique relationship between single-family homes and their landscapes. Featured design practices include 5468796 Architecture Inc., AGATHOM Co., Altius Architecture Inc., Campos Leckie, D’Arcy Jones Design Inc., Dubbeldam Design Architects, Gow Hastings Architects Inc., Lapointe Architects, Lateral Office, Marko Simcic Architect, mcfarlane | green | biggar Architecture + Design, _naturehumaine (architecture+design), NIPpaysage, North Design Office, Paul Raff Studio, RVTR, spmb, Susan Fitzgerald Architecture, The Acre Collective, Urban Republic arts society / ph5 architecture Inc. Design firms were selected by a curatorial team consisting of Joost Bakker, Ian Chodikoff, Anne Cormier, Christine Macy and Chris Pommer.
Whistler Blackcomb - PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola
AIBC registrants can enjoy a $5.00 discount per person at the Whistler PEAK 2 PEAK gondola. For more information on this and other Club AIBC offerings, please visit http://www.aibc.intrd.com.
Equestrian Facilities Expertise Wanted
Equine Sports Magazine is looking to connect with B.C. architects and architectural firms that have experience in designing and/or planning equestrian centres and ot6her horse-based facilities (e.g. stables, race tracks, etc.). If you have such expertise, please send an e-mail to communications@aibc.ca along with a brief overview of related project history.
Azure Promotion
This fall, Azure magazine offers special print & digital package promotions to AIBC registrants. Receive a year of Azure magazine (eight print issues) for $20.00 or receive the print & digital edition for $30.00. To access the registration form, click here.
2012 Venice Biennale in Architecture
The Canada Council for the Arts is now accepting submissions proposing the Canadian representation at the 2012 Venice Biennale in Architecture. The proposed presentation should communicate excellence, innovation, and currency in contemporary Canadian architecture including buildings, landscapes and places, or in works of critical and (or) design research on architecture, landscape architecture or the urban environment. The successful applicant will have responsibilities in all aspects of the Canadian presentation, including:
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conception, design and production of the exhibition;
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shipping, insurance, installation and dismantling of the exhibition;
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opening, closing, operation and staffing of the Canada Pavilion;
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coordination with the National Gallery of Canada, the administration of the Venice Biennale and the Canadian Embassy in Italy;
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promotion and media relations; and
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opening ceremonies
The selected applicant will be responsible for delivering the proposed project, without substantial alteration, while assuming responsibility for expenses incurred by the project beyond the envelope provided by the Canada Council. Note: a new structure is being developed to assist, and potentially take on some of the responsibilities currently assigned to the successful applicant. However, the nature and extent of this structure will only be known at a later date. The selected team may be invited to take part in the conception and implementation of this structure.
The nominal applicant must be an incorporated Canadian organization, institution, or registered business, and the project team must include professional expertise and experience in contemporary Canadian architecture. Submissions will be assessed by a committee composed of experienced professionals chosen for their specialized knowledge in contemporary Canadian architecture, landscape architecture, the urban environment, and public exhibitions. Selection will be made according to the following criteria:
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the architectural merit of the works to be represented;
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the capacity of the project to capture the attention of visitors, convey the presentation’s key ideas and promote contemporary Canadian works of architecture to a broad and diverse public;
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the feasibility of the project, including the likelihood that the proposal will be realized in its integrity, with a special focus on anticipated costs and realism of fundraising expectations; and
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the demonstrated capacity of the applicant to complete projects of this nature in an expedient, responsible, and professional manner.
Interested parties are invited to contact the Program Officer Brigitte Desrochers (e-mail: brigitte.desrochers@canadacouncil.ca; phone: 1-800-263-5588) to receive an information package and discuss the specific challenges of this event. The deadline for submissions is December 6, 2010.
Stirling Lecture Prize Winner
The Canadian Centre for Architecture, in collaboration with the Cities Programme of the London School of Economics and Political Science, has announced Professor Gerald Frug as the recipient of the Stirling Lecture Prize. Professor Frug is a Professor of Law at Harvard Law School and a leading expert on the legal structure of urban governance in the United States. He was chosen for his project entitled “The Architecture of Governance”, which will analyze problems facing the organization of cities around the world and will attempt to describe the design of the governance system in a way that makes it recognizable to architects and other designers. His emphasis on design will bring a familiar architectural focus to a different kind of structure. The bi-annual James Stirling Memorial Lectures on the City competition is a forum for the advancement of new critical perspectives on the role of urban design and urban architecture in the development of cities worldwide. This year’s jury decided unanimously to award Professor Frug on the basis of the excellence of his research and writings on urban governance and the relevance of his proposed lecture to the current debate on the future of the city in the 21st Century. He will be speaking in Montreal in October and London, England later in the fall. Details can be found at www.cca.qc.ca/stirling.
Prince Rupert Architecture
The City of Prince Rupert’s Heritage Advisory Committee has published Heritage Walking Tours, a guide book for walking tours through the northern community. The project, which came about largely through the diligence of Alora Griffin MAIBC MRAIC LEED AP, profiles various heritage buildings in celebration of the city’s 100th anniversary. The 64-page book includes images and overviews that touch upon the wide range of architectural styles found in Prince Rupert. The cost is $15, with proceeds going towards the restoration of the Pillsbury House, the first residence built in Prince. For more information or to purchase a copy, contact Alora at architect@citytel.net.
BC Building Code: Important Changes to Letters of Assurance
The BC Building Code 2006 has been amended to clarify the roles and accountabilities of registered professionals who sign letters of assurance. These changes, referred to as Revision 10, are effective September 1, 2010. Members are strongly advised to carefully review these code changes, the newly revised Guide to Letters of Assurance in the BC Building Code 2006 and the AIBC's newly-issued Practice Note 16: Professional Design and Field Review by Supporting Registered Professionals before issuing any letters of assurance. Maura Gatensby MAIBC |
NOTE: A new dynamic PDF of AIBC Practice Note 16 is now available on the AIBC web site. Click here. |
Funding for Facilitating Foreign-trained Architects
The federal government has announced $1.6 million in funding to facilitate the licensing of foreign-trained architects. The funding will be directed to Architecture Canada (formerly the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada) for its Integration of Broadly Experienced Foreign Architects in Canada project. The goal of the project is to establish a fair, efficient and timely pan-Canadian system for evaluating and licensing architects with international education and work experience, making it easier for internationally-trained architects arriving in Canada to find work in their field. Architecture Canada will be working with Athabasca University to develop bridge-to-work programs and language training courses through its new Centre of Architecture. The initiative is part of the federal Pan-Canadian Framework for the Assessment and Recognition of Foreign Qualifications, under which recognition of foreign credentials and experience will be streamlined for eight priority occupations including architects. As a result, foreign-trained workers who apply to be licensed or registered will be advised within one year whether or not their qualifications will be recognized, or any additional requirements.
HBBH Now Part of DIALOG
Vancouver-based Hotson Bakker Boniface Haden architects + urbanistes has merged with three other Canadian businesses to form a new business entity known as DIALOG. It includes the former Cohos Evamy in Calgary, Toronto designers Mole White & Associates, and the Office for Urbanism, an urban planning and design group also based in Toronto. The move is intended to create a vital national professional practice built upon a multidisciplinary approach committed to collaborative design.
Green Dream Home Demonstration
The Green Dream Home, an energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly home in Kamloops, has reached the demonstration phase. The project is the first of two Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation EQuilibrium™ Housing Initiative demonstration homes in B.C. to be completed and opened for public tours, and the eighth to open across Canada. The Kamloops home, which combines state-of-the-art energy-efficient design and construction techniques with renewable energy production, was designed by Dale Parkes MAIBC and built by Canadian Home Builders’ Association Central Interior and Thompson Rivers University as part of an initiative to encourage builders and developers to build the next generation of sustainable housing. For more information, visit http://www.greendreamhome.ca/default.htm.
Sustainable Region Initiative
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/breakfasts/Pages/default.aspx.
Sustainability Community Breakfast
Topic: From Farm to Table - Local Food Challenges and Opportunities
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
7:30 – 9:00 a.m.
British Columbia Institute of Technology Downtown Vancouver Campus, 555 Seymour Street
Metro Vancouver is developing a Regional Food System Strategy as a first step towards creating a sustainable, resilient and healthy food system that enhances the economic prosperity of the region and conserves natural systems while improving the health of all residents. Similarly, local businesses are exploring innovative approaches to shift towards a more sustainable food system. Learn more about the regional strategy and the challenges that lie ahead as new models emerge for our regional food system. Speakers include Chris Bodnar of Glen Valley Organic Farm; Dominic or Suzanne Fielden, co-founders of Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co.; and Ann Rowan, Senior Policy Analyst - Policy and Planning, Metro Vancouver. To register, go to http://apps2.metrovancouver.org/sustainability/Smailing_list/EventRegistration.asp?EventID=135
Joint Water Use Plan Public Meeting
Should water from the Capilano and Seymour watersheds be used to generate green renewable energy? Metro Vancouver is developing a water use plan to explore whether and how hydropower generation from existing reservoirs can be accommodated within Metro Vancouver's commitment to sustainable management by:
continuing to supply clean, safe drinking water
protecting fish habitat
adapting to climate variability and climate change
Learn more and discuss your water use interests and priorities.
Date: Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Time: 6:30 - 7:00 p.m. – registration; 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. - presentation and open house
Location: Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier, 138 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver
For more information, please visit the Metro Vancouver website or call (604) 432-6200. To provide feedback, send your comments by October 29, 2010 to Metro Vancouver Public Involvement Division (e-mail: icentre@metrovancouver.org).
SALA / SCARP Design Team Announcement
The University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture and School of Community and Regional Planning will be hosting a public reception to introduce the design team selected to create a new facility for the two schools. The reception takes place public at the Museum of Vancouver, 1100 Chestnut Street, on Wednesday, October 20, 2010, 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. The proposed new facility will house both SALA and SCARP in one location on the UBC Vancouver (Point Grey) campus. The estimated $26 million venue will support integrated education and research in planning and design. The creation of a state-of-the-art sustainable building will provide a visible demonstration of the very best in design excellence and environmentally responsible practice. The reception will also be an opportunity for the School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture will also introduce its new director, Professor Leslie Van Duzer. All members of the design and planning community, alumni and the general public are invited to join in celebrating these exciting milestones for the architecture, landscape architecture and planning community.
World Expo Presentation
On Wednesday, October 20, the Themed Attraction Association of Canada will present author and World Expo expert Gordon Linden AIA AICP. Mr. Linden will explore facets of World Expo planning and execution principles gained over his four decades of experience, and highlight opportunities for architects, designers, planners and builders. The presentation will also touch upon the current Shanghai 2010 event as well as Edmonton's bid for Expo 2017. It takes place from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. at the Creekside Community Centre, 1 Athletes Way, Vancouver. Tickets are $52 ($42 for TAA members, associate members and spouses) and include a reception and no-host bar. Click here to access the registration form.
CEBC Health Authorities Event
The Consulting Engineers of British Columbia invite you to attend a health authorities presentation and mixer. This event will be of particular interest to those members and associates who work in the health care sector. Presentations will outline the capital plans, organizational structure and upcoming major projects of BC's health authorities. Featured speakers include Mauricio Acosta, Director - Energy & Environmental Sustainability, Facilities Management for the Fraser Health Authority, Providence Health Care, Provincial Health Services Authority and Vancouver Coastal Health Authority; Marco Buccini MAIBC, Executive Director - Facilities Planning & Real Estate, Fraser Health Authority; and Dave Mackintosh, Director - Capital Projects, Facilities Management - Capital Implementation for the Fraser Health Authority, Providence Health Care, Provincial Health Services Authority and Vancouver Coastal Health Authority. It takes place Tuesday, October 5 at the Fairmont Waterfront in Vancouver. For more information and to register, visit http://www.cebc.org/subcalendar/event.php?event_id=37 or contact Ms. Alla Samusevich at (604) 687-2811.
Healing Cities Conference
The 2010 Healing Cities Conference, part of the larger Gaining Ground urban sustainability conference, takes place this October in Vancouver (see below). This integrative event will bring together architects, planners, developers, engineers, transportation professionals, massage therapists, physicians, counsellors, energy healers, spiritual leaders, and others interested in exploring how cities can be healed, and also be healing places for all of us to inhabit. Join practitioners, professionals, advocates and leaders from a variety of fields who are unified in their desire to advance the state of practice in urban sustainability. Build relationships and share ideas; your input is needed as this one-day conference explores new ways to approach the task of healing cities. For more information and to register, visit www.gaininggroundsummit.com/program.htm.
Preserving Modern Architecture
Architects, engineers, urban planners, landscape architects, designers, historians and others involved with the built environment are invited to attend a national conference on heritage preservation from October 14-17, 2010 at the Université du Québec à Montréal. Titled “Preserving Modern Architecture in Quebec, Canada and Elsewhere: Heritage Challenges and the Mobilization of Knowledge”, the goal of this conference is to provide an update on the conservation of the modern built heritage in Quebec and the rest of Canada, a heritage characterized by its abundance, unfamiliarity, fragility, and obsolescence. The patrimonialization of a built environment born of the modernist values of newness and universalism is no easy task, given its often negative associations with traditions and heritage preservation measured against the yardsticks of identity, and with the goals of sustainable development, one of the central societal challenges of this century. This event will delve deeper into the theoretical, methodological, and technical problems and the cultural and political issues raised by modern heritage conservation by focusing on two themes: the heritage challenges posed by modern buildings, civil engineering works, urban ensembles, and landscapes; and the mobilization of knowledge. For more information, please visit http://canada.icomos.org/documents/CallForPapers_EN.pdf.
Registration is now open for GreenLink 2010, a conference that aims to set realistic methods in sustainable thinking, development and action. This event will provide an arena to showcase innovative projects in green investment, clean technology and government policy. This year’s conference will also host several internationally-acclaimed speakers, including David Suzuki and Paul Harken. It takes place from October 5-6, 2010 at the Renaissance Harbourside Hotel, Vancouver. For more information or to register, visit http://www.rebootconference.com/greenlink2010/index.php.
Gaining Ground Urban Sustainability Conference
The 2010 Gaining Ground urban sustainability conference, titled Eco Logical: The Power of Green Cities to Shape the Future, takes place October 4-7 in Vancouver. This three-day conference is themed around three crucial subjects: policy and industry buy-in; green economy; and complete community design and human health and well-being. It will focus on urban sustainability accomplishments and challenges, bringing together a wide network of urban sustainability practitioners who are playing key roles in numerous fields of professional and community practice. Featured speakers include Jared Blumenfeld, Director of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 9 (California, the Southwest and Hawaii); Michael Dichand, CEO of Gussing Renewable Energy; and Jeff Tumlin, Urban Transportation Planner, City of San Francisco. For additional information and registration, visit the conference web site at www.gaininggroundsummit.com.
Building SustainABLE Communities Conference
The Building SustainABLE Communities Conference, hosted by The Fresh Outlook Foundation, takes place at the Delta Grand Resort & Conference Centre in Kelowna from November 15 to 18, 2010. The Fresh Outlook Foundation is a non-profit organization that applies community-based social marketing (CBSM) strategies to encourage sustainable behaviour. With more than 100 speakers, this year’s conference provides a wide range of topics in Sustainability Planning, Pollution Prevention & Mitigation, Green Economic Development, and Community Sustainability. The program has recently been expanded and Speakers' Bios & Abstracts are now available online. For more information, including program and registration details, please visit www.freshoutlookfoundation.org.
Ride-Share Week 2010
The fourth annual Ride-Share Week takes place October 4-8, 2010. For the first time, this annual week of promotion and participation in ridesharing will be expanding province-wide. Organized by the Jack Bell Ride-Share Foundation, this event is designed to promote and raise awareness for active, sustainable transportation. Using the Jack Bell Ride-Share database (https://online.ride-share.com/en/my/), individuals and businesses can sign up to match journeys and start enjoying greener commutes. RSW Coordinators will receive a “Green Zebra Guide”, a local savings book for sustainable living. Promotional materials will be provided in mid-August, and prizes will be awarded to ride sharers, including a round trip for two to Edmonton on Via Rail’s *The Canadian*. For more information, contact Rae-Anne LaPlante at rae-anne@ride-share.com or (604) 879-RIDE (7433).
IDSwest 2010
Mark your calendars for the next Interior Design Show West, October 14-17, 2010 at the Vancouver Convention Centre. IDSwest is Western Canada’s premiere annual residential design show featuring 200 exhibitors showcasing quality products and services to an audience of architects, designers, industry professionals, consumers and media. New program highlights this year include Future Masters, a showcase of young design talents and local design institutions; and Spare the Change, a design challenge with a $2 budget. For detailed information including speakers, exhibitors and schedule, keep an eye on the event web site at http://www.idswest.com/index.php.
BC Electrical Association Awards
The BC Electrical Association invites nominations for its Project Excellence program. The purpose of this award is to recognize projects that have demonstrated design and/or construction excellence, energy efficient buildings, or new uses of technology. It is not intended that the project size (financial or dimensional) be a significant criteria for selection of the award winner. The governing criteria for award selection should emphasize design excellence and innovation as well as innovative techniques for the project. Team submissions are encouraged. To download the nomination form, click here. Nomination forms must be received by the BCEA no later than October 15, 2010.
2011 Architecture Canada Award Submissions
Architecture Canada is now accepting submissions for its 2011 Awards of Excellence as well as the annual Governor General's Medals in Architecture, Architectural Firm Award, Young Architect Award and Prix du XXE siècle. Under the Awards of Excellence Program, awards are given every two years in the categories of Advocate for Architecture, Allied Arts Medal, Green Building, and Innovation in Architecture. For detailed information on the various award categories and submission process, please visit www.raic.org. The deadline for submissions to the Awards of Excellence Program is December 9, 2010. The deadline for the other 2011 awards is January 13, 2011.
Call for Nominations:
UBC Margolese National Design for
Living Prize
The University of British Columbia Faculty of Applied Science is proud to announce the inaugural call for nominations for the UBC Margolese National Design for Living Prize. The $50,000 prize will be awarded annually to a Canadian who has made outstanding contributions to the development or improvement of living environments for Canadians from all economic classes. You are invited to nominate your most distinguished and accomplished colleagues. The Faculty of Applied Science is confirming a prestigious committee of nationally and internationally recognized experts from academia and the design profession who will assist in selecting the first recipient of the UBC Margolese National Design for Living Prize, to be announced early in 2011. This year’s nomination deadline is October 22, 2010. For detailed information about how to submit a nomination, please visit: www.apsc.ubc.ca/awards/margolese.
Quito Pan-American Biennale of Architecture
The Quito Pan-American Biennale of Architecture is now accepting entries from registered architects from the Americas. Held since 1978, the biennale is organized by the Colegio de Arquitectos del Ecuador (Association of Architects of Ecuador) Pichincha Province, and has grown to become a major international event. Academic lectures, exhibitions, and cultural events will also be held. Submissions are due by Friday, October 29, 2010. To download the application form, click here. Click here for more information. The event takes place from November 15 - 19, 2010 in Quito, Ecuador.
3rd International Holcim Awards
Entries are now being accepted for the 3rd International Holcim Awards. This competition, organized by the Holcim Foundation, celebrates innovative, future-oriented projects that contribute towards a more sustainable built environment. It recognizes sustainable practices in engineering, landscape and urban design, infrastructure, and materials and construction technologies. The main category is open to working professionals including architects, engineers, planners, builders and construction firms whose projects have reached an advanced stage in design with construction to take place no earlier than July 1, 2010. There is also a "Next Generation" category for students enrolled in the final year of a bachelor program, or in graduate or post-graduate programs. Entries must be submitted online by March 23, 2011. Go to www.holcimawards.org.
Omicron Whistler Transit Facility Wins Design-Build
Award of Excellence
The Canadian Design-Build Institute has recently presented its annual Design-Build Award of Excellence to Omicron's Whistler Transit Facility project. The project was recognized for the integrated design-build approach, overseen by Ommicron, that resulted in a $2 million reduction in project cost; the creation of successful partnerships among all project stakeholders; and resourceful scheduling methods utilized to deliver the project six weeks ahead of schedule.
Bevanda Architecture Merges With CEI
CEI Architecture Planning Interiors has signed an agreement that will see Bevanda Architecture of Penticton join its team. The combined firm will have more than 100 professional staff with expertise in master planning, architecture and interior design. Staff from Bevanda Architecture will become part of CEI’s Kelowna office. The firm also has offices in Vancouver, Victoria and Los Angeles.
Architecture And Our Duty to Beauty
We all have a responsibility to make the best of our surroundings. Yet the political classes are reluctant to be arbiters of taste. That has to change.
By Julian Baggini, The Independent
September 20, 2010
The seaside town of Folkestone sits between shore and hill, looking out over the English Channel, against the backdrop of the North Downs. It's a great natural advantage, but one which can be cheaply treated. I remember once, when I was a kid, how almost overnight, in a then largely undeveloped area of the town at the foot of the hills, a huge, bright blue DIY warehouse store appeared. A view that thousands of people took for granted everyday had suddenly been, not quite destroyed, but indelibly stained. More …
'LEED is a Laggard, Rather Than a Leader': SFI CEO
By Monte Paulsen, TheTyee.ca
September 23, 2010
The green building standard by which the City of Vancouver and hundreds of other municipalities measure the environmental performance of new construction is falling behind rival green building standards in the way it rates wood, according to the CEO of the world’s largest forest certification program. “The vast majority of rating tools around the world do recognize multiple forestry certification standards, do look at multiple attributes where wood gets its fair share,” Kathy Abusow, President and CEO of the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), told the U.S.-based group’s annual conference in Vancouver on Wednesday. More …
Does Minimalism Matter?
It has been the defining style of our era, but now it’s in retreat.
By Stephen Bayley, Intelligent Life Magazine
Autumn 2010
Last June I shared a cab with Grayson Perry, one of Britain’s best-known artists. He had just returned from the Basel art fair, where he had been struck by something. “Everything is now happening all at once,” he told me with a roll of the eyes. There was no longer a ruling style or taste, no common agreement on what is avant-garde and what is retrograde. Today the happening thing is just what is happening. We have reached the end of “isms”. More …
BIM to Become Part of Public Procurement Process
By Anna Winston, bdonline.co.uk
October 1, 2010
The government’s chief construction adviser Paul Morell has indicated that Building Information Modelling (BIM) will become a key part of the procurement of public buildings. Speaking at Autodesk’s BIM Conference yesterday, Morrell indicated that bidders and contractors on future public building projects would be asked to use BIM. More …