2011 AIBC / Architecture Canada | RAIC Conference &
Festival of Architecture: Call for Presenters
The Architectural Institute of British Columbia and Architecture Canada | RAIC invite submissions for presentations at the 2011 AIBC / Architecture Canada | RAIC Conference & Festival of Architecture, May 24 to 27, 2011 in Vancouver. This year’s theme is “Architecture on the Edge˝ - a nod to architectural innovation and excellence on the West Coast. Presentations that address this theme are encouraged, along with those on other topics directly related to architecture and architectural practice. For more information and to submit a proposal, go to: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Vancouver_2011_Call_for_Presenters. Related questions can be directed to Director of Professional Services Maura Gatensby MAIBC (mgatensby@aibc.ca).
The deadline for submissions is October 27, 2010.

Attention all Firm Owners / Administrators: Firm Updates
The Architects Act and AIBC bylaws require every firm to file an annual update with the AIBC. A firm update notification (with information and instructions) was e-mailed to all firm administrators/owners earlier this week. Those firms for which we do not have an identified contact person and/or valid e-mail address will receive their information and instructions via regular mail shortly. Regardless of whether you receive your information by e-mail or a posted mail, you must log on to your on-line firm profile (http://aibc.memberpro.net) and complete the firm update process on or before November 1, 2010. Please direct any questions to Manager – Registration & Licensing Roisin O’Neill (roneill@aibc.ca).

ARE Preparation: Structures Seminar (Three-day)
Professor David Thaddeus AIA NCARB is coming to Vancouver to present his ARE Structures Seminar. This seminar offers three full days of workshops, mock exams and questions & answers that will focus on preparing Intern Architects for the Structural Systems division of the ARE 4.0. These workshops present techniques, strategies and skills that are invaluable to any IA preparing for these exams. The course will be held November 12-14 at the AIBC offices. Registration is open online. Please send any questions to the attention of AIBC Registration & Licensing Administration Assistant Emily Tyler by e-mail (etyler@aibc.ca) or phone (604) 683.8588 ext 324. The seminar fee includes the course workbook as well as morning and afternoon coffee/tea & snacks. Note: the deadline for registration is Friday, November 5, 2010.

Save the Date:
2011 AIBC / Architecture Canada | RAIC Conference& 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.

Pram in the Hall
The latest installment 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 & Licensing Administration Assistant Emily Tyler at etyler@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.

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...

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).


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.


Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)
Annual Housing Outlook Conference
This conference will feature housing experts who will discuss the key factors that impact housing supply and demand. Speakers will also offer up a 2011 forecast for the B.C. economy and Metro Vancouver markets while examining 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 learn the tools and resources available from the CMHC that help in building affordable housing. This one-day conference promises important business information to help stay abreast of housing trends and will help attendees make knowledgeable business decisions for the upcoming year. It takes place Wednesday, November 10 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Vancouver. Special group table rates are available. This event sells out every year so be sure to register early. Please visit www.cmhc.ca/conferenceregistration or call 1-800-668-2642.
3 Non-core LUs
Housing Outlook Conference – Victoria
Join CMHC in Victoria as housing experts present the housing and economic forecast that can inform your business strategy for 2011. CMHC representatives will examine the key factors that impact housing demand and supply; provide a forecast for the BC economy and Victoria CMA markets for 2011; and highlight the trends in new home, rental and resale markets that are influencing developers and consumers. Tony Gioventu, from the Condominium Home Owners’ Association, will examine how new and existing strata legislation impacts the housing industry as well as discuss the sustainability of condominiums. The conference also highlights the tools and resources available from the CMHC that help in building affordable housing. It takes place on Monday, November 22 at Victoria's Delta Ocean Pointe Resort and Spa. The cost is $85 plus HST. For more information, visit www.cmhc.ca/conferenceregistration or call 1-800-668-2642.
3 Non-core LUs

SFU
City Program
VIA Architecture Urban Design Lectures
Next Generation Urbanism
Recessions are deadly for urban development activity - but fertile times for re-thinking and re-positioning, for looking around and looking ahead. What are the new horizons for North American metros as we look to and beyond recovery? What urban design debates in the schools are informing the next generation? Ellen Dunham-Jones will draw on both her own research into retrofitting suburbia for a more sustainable future as well as the work of leading new urbanists, bankers, and policy makers to speculate on how shifting demographics, new technologies, economic and natural resource challenges are informing new directions in the design of cities. Ellen Dunham-Jones, Professor, School of Architecture, Georgia Institute of Technology. Professor Dunham-Jones is a Visiting Fellow in Urban Sustainable Development, supported by an endowment made possible by the Real Estate Foundation of British Columbia and Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. It takes place
October 26 at 7:00 p.m. at
SFU Harbour Centre, 515 West Hastings Street, Vancouver.
Admission is free, but reservations are required. Reserve at www.sfu.ca/reserve
2 Non-core LUs
Ellen Dunham-Jones: Retrofitting Suburbia
How can ghostboxes, dead malls, aging office parks, out-dated edge cities and blighted commercial strips be retrofitted into more sustainable places? Co-author of the award winning book, "Retrofitting Suburbia: Urban Design Solutions for Redesigning Suburbs", Ellen Dunham-Jones will explain the drivers behind successful built suburban retrofits in North America and illustrate the three principal strategies: re-inhabitation, redevelopment and re-greening. Ellen Dunham-Jones is a Visiting Fellow in Urban Sustainable Development, supported by an endowment made possible by the Real Estate Foundation of British Columbia and Fraser Valley Real Estate Board. It takes place October 28 at 7:00 p.m. at the SFU Surrey campus (250–13450 102 Avenue, Room 2600).
Admission is free, but reservations are required. To register, go to: www.sfu.ca/reserve.
2 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.

CWC/Wood WORKS!
Wood Design Luncheon Conferences: BC's Wood First Act - What it Means to You
This series of seminars, offered through the Canadian Wood Council and sponsored by Forestry Innovation Investment under the Wood WORKS! BC project, will provide essential information on the Wood First Act, among other wood-related topics. Learn about the rationale, the legislation, the implementation and the benefits for your community. These events include informative seminars on wood design and construction; the latest information about wood products; and
exhibits devoted to wood products. The following dates and locations are available:
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Kelowna: Wednesday, November 24
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Kamloops: Thursday, November 25
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Victoria: Tuesday, November 30
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Nanaimo: Wednesday, December 1
Free admission and complimentary luncheon is provided for all pre-registered guests. For details, or to register, visit www.wood-works.org or contact Lorna Malone at lmalone@wood-works.ca
3 Core LUs

Xero Flor Canada Ltd.
Green Roof Technology Workshop
Xero Flor, a recognized pioneer in the green roof industry, invites you to attend a one-day green roof technology workshop being held in Vancouver on Monday, November 29, 2010 at the Plaza 500 Hotel. Keynote presenter Karen Liu PhD, along with Chris Eichhorn ILD, Bob Thurston of Siplast and Sasha Aguilera from Xero Flor Canada, will cover all pertinent issues such as various green roof systems; benefits and scientific data; roofing assemblies; load capacity; fire and wind uplift considerations; LEED® credits; leak detection; and maintenance. The registration fee of $135 (HST included) covers meals, binder and certificate of attendance. Registration and breakfast starts at 8.30 a.m., and the workshop concludes at 4:00 p.m. To register online and for more information, please go to http://www.xeroflor.ca/workshops.html.
6 Core LUs

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:
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

Terrazzo, Tile & Marble Association of Canada (TTMAC)
8th Annual 2010 Tech Expo
Join TTMAC for its annual exposition including educational seminars, tabletop displays and demonstrations. This year’s seminar topics include:
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Pools, Decks, and Porcelain Tile
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Terrazzo
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Specifications: Facts, Myths, and Tools
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TCNA LEED/Green Tile
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Spanish Slim Tile: New Technologies
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North American Tile: Designs and Trends
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Panel Discussion: Design, Function, and Economics
It takes place Friday, October 29, 2010 at Simon Fraser University Harbour Centre, 515 West Hastings Street, Vancouver. For details or to register, please click here.
Each one- hour seminar qualifies for 1 Core LU

MMPI
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.

BC Hydro Power Smart Forum
The Power Smart Forum is BC’s leading energy conservation conference, attracting delegates, speakers and industry experts from across North America. This year, both the 2010 Power Smart Excellence Awards & Forum will be held at the award-winning Vancouver Convention Centre. The Excellence Awards reception and dinner will take place on the evening of October 25, 2010 with the forum plenary, breakout and workshop sessions on October 25 – 27, 2010. To view the complete program, please visit http://wwe12.bchydro.com/businessevents/forum/program/. To register, go to http://wwe12.bchydro.com/businessevents/forum/registration/.
Core and Non-core LUs available

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.


Upcoming Exhibit: BCIT Architectural Science Degree
2010 Graduating Projects
November 2010
AIBC Gallery: #100 – 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver
Make plans to attend the annual grad show for the British Columbia Institute of Technology’s Bachelor of Technology in Architectural Science program. This four-year baccalaureate degree program provides the architectural and engineering communities with graduates while also allowing students to ladder to a professional degree such as a Master of Architecture. This year’s graduating projects include Aural SFU (a music school); Centre for Ceramics; and a Community College for White Rock. For further information about the exhibit or program, contact Program Head Peter Levar MAIBC MRAIC at plevar@bcit.ca.

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.

Pre-season Lift Tickets
This year, Club AIBC offers a range of discounted prices on pre-season lift tickets and rentals. Included in the offerings are:
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Whistler Blackcomb: Save 25% on lift tickets and up to 47% on rentals
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Sun Peaks Resort: Save 15% on lift tickets
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Silver Star Resort: Save 15% on lift tickets
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Big White Ski Resort: Save 15% on lift tickets.
Order by November 19 to take advantage of these offers.
For more information on this and other Club AIBC offerings, please visit http://www.aibc.intrd.com.


Invitation to Participate National Energy Code Review
The Province of British Columbia and the Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes (CCBFC) invite you to participate in a public review of proposed changes for the 2011 National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings (NECB). The public review, one of the main steps in the process for developing model national code documents, provides a nation-wide forum for review and comment on the changes proposed. The 2011 NECB is a model code developed by the CCBFC in partnership with the provinces/ territories and the National Research Council of Canada. B.C. is considering the adoption of this model code into provincial building regulations. The fall 2010 public review, which takes place from October 4 to November 26, is seeking comments on a new objective, new functional statements, and proposed technical changes. To participate, visit the National Codes web site at http://www.nationalcodes.ca/eng/public_review/2010/introduction.shtml.

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 sign up, 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.

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.
Click here for more.
Maura Gatensby MAIBC
Director of Professional Services |
NOTE: A new dynamic PDF of AIBC Practice Note 16 is now available on the AIBC web site. Click here. |


Visions for Surrey
You are invited to take part in important conversations that will examine future visions for Surrey and its various communities. Earlier this year, the TownShift Ideas Competition invited people to imagine what architecture and urban design could look like in each of five town centres in Surrey. The competition attracted 137 submissions from designers in 21 countries. As follow-up to the competition and the intriguing ideas that have come to the fore, a series of evening events has been scheduled in order to facilitate public discussion:
Cloverdale |
Thursday, November 18
Kwantlen Polytechnic University
5500 180 Street (access off Highway 10)
Room 1853, Boardroom |
Fleetwood |
Tuesday, November 23
Surrey Sport and Leisure Complex
16555 Fraser Highway
Multi-purpose Room #3 |
|
Guildford |
Thursday, November 25
Guildford Recreation Centre
15105 – 105 Avenue
Multi-purpose Room, Level 2 |
Semiahmoo |
Tuesday, November 30
Sunnyside Hall
1845 – 154 Street |
| Newton |
Thursday, December 2
Newton Community Hall
13730 – 72 Avenue (enter via wave pool)
Multi-purpose Room #3 |
While each event is different (focusing on the specific town centre), they will share the same agenda:
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6:00 p.m. Open house display of selected competition panels, meet the designers and organizers (refreshments served)
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7:00 p.m. Visual presentation outlining key design ideas for that town centre
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8:00 p.m. Community dialogue: public comments, queries and suggestions to move TownShift’s ideas forward
All five evenings are free and open to anyone. Please note: the first 50 attendees each night will receive a special 32-page, colour booklet illustrating and interpreting selected TownShift ideas for that town centre. Public feedback will be collected in a sixth, summary booklet to be published in early 2011. For further information, and to preview the five TownShift publications online, go to www.townshift.ca.

CCDC Seminars
This November, the Canadian Construction Documents Committee will be hosting a series of seminars pertaining to the release of its new new contract forms. CCDC members will explain the key provisions and philosophies behind these contract forms. Topics will include the schedule of services that are considered necessary for Construction Manager projects; important considerations that apply if a Construction Manager is required to perform part or all construction work; construction estimates; administration of trade contracts; and insurance requirements. This is an opportunity to learn directly from the authors of these new contract forms. The Vancouver seminar takes place November 2 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Speakers include Pierre Gallant, Terry Brown and Mark Mulholland. For more information and to register, click here: http://www.ccdc.org/events/.
Core LUs are available, but must be self-reported.

Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions
The Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions, Simon Fraser University and the University of British Columbia invite you to a free public lecture entitled "Threatening Seas: Sea-Level Rise, Coastal Flooding and Erosion." Presenters include Dr. John Clague and Dr. Hadi Dowlatabadi. This lecture will include an overview of sea-level rising, coastal flooding and erosion. It takes place Wednesday, October 27 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the SFU Harbour Centre's Segal Centre Rooms (515 West Hastings Street, Vancouver). Registration is encouraged but not required. To register, go to: www.picspubliclecture.eventbrite.com. A live web stream will also be available at: www.pics.uvic.ca/events.php.

Youth Gearing Up – Architecture
Designed for secondary students, this unique introductory architecture program at West Vancouver Museum provides insight and understanding of the art and practice of architecture. Taught in collaboration with professional architects, the eight-session series exposes students to the basic skills leading to the design and presentation of a small building project. It runs from October 16 to December 4, 2010. Register online or by phone: (604) 925-7270). For more information about this program, visit the WVM website.

Some Powers of Ten
The 221A Artist Run Centre is pleased to present Some Powers of Ten. Drawing from the 1968 Eames film “Powers of Ten”, this exhibition addresses the multiple and nested scales at which we perceive and interact with the built environment. Co-opting the language of architecture, construction and cartography, five emerging artists and designers negotiate the representation of an urban context, exposing the ways in which perception is augmented by zooming in or out. Curated by Laura Kozak, it features work by Sarah Hay, Josh Jordan, Dallas Spiller and Ellen Ziegler. The exhibition will run from October 16 to November 14, 2010. The 221A Artist Run Centre is located at 221 East Georgia Street, Vancouver.

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.


2011 Lulu Awards
The City of Richmond is now taking submissions for its annual Urban Design Award Program, known as the Lulu Awards. This program is intended to recognize, celebrate and inspire excellence in urban design in the city of Richmond. This year’s jury includes James Cheng MAIBC; Joe Erceg, Richmond’s General Manager of Planning & Development; Brian Jackson, Richmond’s Director of Development; Don Vaughan ASLA; and Jay Wollenberg CIP. The deadline for submissions is November 15, 2010. For detailed information and to enter, visit www.richmond.ca.

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.

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.


Architects Should Lead Urban Growth
W. Stephen Boulton MRAIC, Daily Commercial News and Construction Record
October 14, 2010
Why aren’t architects leading the pack when it comes to urban redevelopment? Should the architect’s role be simply as service provider; is there value in expanding our sphere of influence? Architects are uniquely positioned through education and professional training to help guide good urban growth. We have the understanding and knowledge of how the minute details fit into and affect neighbourhood evolution and neighbourhood redevelopment. The nature of our profession requires the capacity to think holistically, not simply building envelopes and details but an ability to consider the urban scale. More …

USGBC, LEED Targeted by Class-Action Suit
By Tristan Roberts, BuildingGreen.com
October 14, 2010
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and its founders have been named as defendants in a class action lawsuit filed in federal court. Filed on behalf of mechanical systems designer Henry Gifford, owner of Gifford Fuel Saving, the lawsuit was stamped on October 8, 2010 at the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. Among other allegations, the suit argues that USGBC is fraudulently misleading consumers and fraudulently misrepresenting energy performance of buildings certified under its LEED rating systems, and that LEED is harming the environment by leading consumers away from using proven energy-saving strategies. More …
