In Passing: B. James Wensley

B. James “Jim” Wensley (Formerly Registered Architect, MAAA, FRAIC) passed away in Vancouver on Thursday, October 15, 2009 at the age of 79, following a brief battle with cancer.

Wensley was born in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan on October 5, 1930. In 1952, he graduated from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering. He then went on to the study architecture at the University of British Columbia, graduating in 1956.

Following his studies, he worked at Thompson Berwick & Pratt, Koyander & Wright, and W.R. Ussner. He then established a small North Vancouver-based practice working primarily in custom residential design.

From 1962 to 1989, Wensley managed a successful practice in Edmonton, Alberta which was responsible for the design of such landmark buildings as Edmonton Convention Centre.  In 1990, he returned to Vancouver, establishing B. James Wensley Architect Ltd., followed by Wensley Architecture Ltd in 2001. He remained a member of the AIBC until 2007.

Wensley’s professional accolades included numerous architectural design awards, such as a 1982 Governor General’s Medal for the Coquitlam Shopping Centre. To colleagues and friends, he was greatly admired for his talent, sincerity and love of life.

He is survived by his wife Joyce; sister Carol Gilfillan; children Chris, Blair and Adam; and stepchildren Randy, Brian, Spencer, Susan, Andrea and Cathy.

A celebration of life will be held on Monday, October 26, 3:00 p.m. at the Sutton Place Hotel, 845 Burrard Street, Vancouver. All are welcome. A second celebration of life will be held in Edmonton, Alberta on Monday, November 16, 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. at the Shaw Convention Centre, 9797 Jasper Avenue.

New Roles at the AIBC

The AIBC has introduced two changes to its staffing structure. Jerome Marburg LL.B has taken on the new position of Deputy Executive Director while continuing to serve as the institute’s General Counsel. Róisín O’Neill has been appointed Manager of Registration and Licensing. She will manage the AIBC’s membership records and admissions processes and will continue to provide support for the AIBC Registration and Licensing Board and its committees. She will also continue to serve as liaison and advisor for intern architects, architectural technologists, intern architectural technologists, and students. These new designations are effective immediately.

Update: Bulletin 01 – Fees, Fines and Charges

An updated version of Bulletin 01 - Fees, Fines and Charges is now available online at http://www.aibc.ca/bulletins/Bulletin_01_2009.pdf. This new version incorporates changes to address the AIBC’s newly-established Alternative Qualifications Assessment process for Architectural Technologists, along with minor syntax adjustments and modified sequencing for improved clarity and transparency.

New Bulletin: Bulletin 60 – Signature, Seal and Delivery of Electronic Documents

Bulletin 60 - Signature, Seal and Delivery of Electronic Documents has been approved and formally adopted by resolution of the AIBC Council. It contains guidance and council rulings on the use of electronic certificate technology to sign/seal and deliver documents. The new bulletin is posted on the AIBC website, and can be downloaded here. Members are encouraged to provide feedback on this bulletin to Deputy Executive Director Jerome Marburg (jmarburg@aibc.ca).

Hot Corner #70

Michael Ernest MAIBC, Executive Director
October 23, 2009

My dad bought his architectural student son a simple, wooden drafting table for about $25, in part so the lad could work at home instead of spending all-nighters at McGill. Sure. More...

2010 AIBC Annual Conference: Call for Presentations

The Architectural Institute of British Columbia invites proposals for presentations at its annual conference to be held May 6 to 8, 2010 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. The theme of the 2010 conference is “Community Building: The Social Impact of Architecture”. Proposals related to this theme are encouraged, as well as other topic areas in architecture and architectural practice.

All AIBC registrants are invited to make submissions. National and international participation is also welcomed. An online form will be available on the AIBC Annual Conference web site in the coming week. Please contact Director of Professional Services Maura Gatensby MAIBC if you have any questions.

Save the Date: AIBC Annual Conference
May 6 – May 8, 2010
Vancouver Convention Centre

This year's theme: "Community Building: The Social Impact of Architecture"

Course descriptions and event details will be posted here as soon as they are finalized.

Attention all Firm Owners / Administrators
Firm Updates

The Architects Act and AIBC bylaws require every firm to file an annual update with the AIBC.  In the past, update forms were mailed out to each firm by the AIBC. These had to be filled out and returned to the AIBC by mail. However, the new AIBC database now allows firm owners/administrators to make almost all changes to firm information on-line through the AIBC web site. 

On Thursday, October 15, firm update information and instructions (including firm login identification and password information) was e-mailed to every firm with an identified owner/administrator and e-mail address. Those firms for which we do not have an identified contact person and/or valid e-mail address will receive their information and instructions shortly via regular mail.

Regardless of whether you receive your information by e-mail or a letter in the 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 6, 2009.

Advanced Registration for Rogatnick Memorial

The memorial service for Abraham Rogatnick will take place on Sunday, October 25 in The Great Hall of the Law Courts, 800 Smithe Street, Vancouver. It will begin at 2:00 p.m. Due to the level of interest generated, a large turnout is expected. Those planning to attend are asked to pre-register by e-mailing rogatnick@gmail.com or by phoning 778-938-1222. Those wishing to contribute to a Viva Award in the memory of Abraham and his partner Alvin Balkind may do so through the Jack and Doris Shadbolt Foundation, P.O. Box 549 Station A, Vancouver, BC V6L 2N3.

Intern Examination Preparation Seminar: Structures

This Fall, the AIBC will once again be hosting Professor David Thaddeus, AIA, NCARB. Professor Thaddeus will be presenting his Structures seminar at the AIBC offices on November 6 - 8, 2009. This seminar offers three full days of workshops, mock exams, and questions and answers that focus on preparing Intern Architects for the Structural Systems division of the ARE 4.0 examination. These workshops present the technique, strategies and skills invaluable to all IAs preparing for their exams. The registration form is now available on the AIBC website. The registration deadline is October 28th. Please contact AIBC Registration Coordinator, Roisin O'Neill, at roneill@aibc.ca if you have any questions.

Intern Architect Event 2009: 20x20

Given the success of 20x20, last year’s Intern Architect Event, the Intern Architect Committee has decided to host a second 20x20 event this year. It will take place on Thursday, November 12, 5:30 – 8:00 p.m. in the AIBC’s Architecture Gallery (#100 - 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver). Once again, it will have a Pecha Kucha format. Pecha Kucha originated in Japan in the late 1990s as a method devised by graphic artists to present their work. Each presenter speaks to 20 images, each displayed for 20 seconds. The format places high emphasis on creative and concise presentations. The fact that each presentation lasts no more than six minutes allows for a number of broad ranging topics to be presented at each event – further adding to the creative conversation. The Pecha Kucha formula has gained international recognion and popularity, and it is the intent of the Intern Architect Committee to host these Pecha Kucha-inspired events on a regular, ongoing basis. Refreshments will be provided, and door prizes will be drawn toward the end of the evening (remember to bring your business cards). Please mark your calendars, and send a quick r.s.v.p. to the Intern Architect Committee (interncommittee@yahoo.com) if you are planning to attend. We hope to see you at this exciting event. 3 Non-core LUs

Call for Presenters We are looking for five to eight speakers for the 20x20 event on Thursday, November 12. Preference will be given to IAs and architecture students. Presenters will have the opportunity to showcase their work, ideas or other interests. All speakers will receive an honorarium. Those interested are asked to contact the Intern Architect Committee at interncommittee@yahoo.com and let us know the topic you would like to present. Once you have your presentation ready, please send it via e-mail to the IAC (interncommittee@yahoo.com) as a PowerPoint presentation.

Role Call: AIBC Awards Advisory Committee

The institute is seeking members interested in joining the AIBC Awards Advisory Committee. This committee will work with staff to formulate a jury for the 2010 AIBC Awards in Architecture, and review the institute’s awards program. This committee will meet approximately four times between October 2009 and February 2010, with meeting times to be determined. All classes of AIBC registrant, including both former committee members and those newly interested in becoming involved, are welcomed to apply. For more information or to indicate your interest in volunteering for this committee, please contact Director of Communications David Wiebe at dwiebe@aibc.ca.

Role Call: AIBC Gallery Advisory Committee

The institute is seeking members interested in joining the AIBC Gallery Advisory Committee. This committee will work with staff to oversee the strategic development of the AIBC Architecture Centre Gallery, ensuring that gallery exhibitions help to raise both public and professional understanding of the architectural profession. This includes advising on potential exhibitions for the gallery. This committee will meet approximately four times a year, with meeting times to be determined. All classes of AIBC registrant, including both former committee members and those newly interested in becoming involved, are welcomed to apply. For more information or to indicate your interest in volunteering for this committee, please contact Director of Communications David Wiebe at dwiebe@aibc.ca.

Role Call: AIBC Investigations Committee

The AIBC is seeking an additional member for its Investigations Committee, which investigates and makes recommendations to the institute as to how to proceed regarding unprofessional conduct complaints. The committee meets once per month (generally only one summer meeting) for an afternoon. Members interested in contributing to the institute’s professional conduct process are invited to submit their expressions of interest with a brief biography or c.v. The AIBC believes that the public interest and the profession are best served by a committee that includes members with diverse backgrounds and experience. Please contact the Director of Professional Conduct Thomas M. Lutes, Barrister & Solicitor at (604) 683-8588 ext. 321 or tlutes@aibc.ca.

Role Call: Pitt Meadows Advisory Design Panel

Pitt Meadows City Council is accepting applications from individuals interested in serving on the Pitt Meadows Advisory Design Panel (ADP). The ADP assists council in assessing the design merits of plans submitted in conjunction with rezoning, development permit and other land use applications. An application form is available at http://www.aibc.ca/member_resources/practice/pdf/Design_Panel_Application_Jan09.pdf. Submissions may be forwarded to the attention of the AIBC’s Coordinator of Professional Practice Erica Holt at eholt@aibc.ca.

BEEP Module I:

Building Science and the Building Envelope (Available Online)

Topics for Module I include:

• The Outdoor and Indoor Environment

• Conditions Within the Envelope

• Materials and Their Moisture Content

• Rain Penetration

• Pressure Differences Due to Wind

• Predicting Building Envelope Performance

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

18 Core LUs

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

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

BC Wood

Digital Design & Fabrication for Wood Products and Structures Seminar

BC Wood and the University of British Columbia Centre for Advanced Wood Processing invite you to attend a half-day seminar on digital design and fabrication using CAD/CAM software and computer-numerical control (CNC) fabrication machinery. These digital technologies are opening up a world of new design possibilities, and offer the potential to design and fabricate structural and aesthetic wood components with ever-improving precision and speed. However, the various design and fabrication steps must be planned as a holistic process that maximizes the efficient flow of digital information in order to take full advantage. Designers must also have a solid understanding of the capabilities of the fabrication equipment used. This seminar will illustrate how the use of 3D CAD/CAM software and CNC machinery impacts the design and manufacturing process, including demonstrations of the most important capabilities of various software programs and CNC equipment. It will also discuss common issues and pitfalls that designers and manufacturers experience, and how these can be mitigated.  It takes place Friday, November 27, 12:30 – 4:50 p.m. at the Centre for Advanced Wood Processing, Point Grey Campus, U.B.C. Forest Sciences Centre, 2424 Main Mall, Vancouver. The cost is $50 per person (including lunch). To register, please contact Jason Chiu by e-mail (jason.chiu@ubc.ca) or phone (604-822-0082). For further details, please visit www.cawp.ubc.ca.

4 Core LUs

Vancouver Island Chapter Meeting

The next meeting of the AIBC’s Vancouver Island Chapter is on Wednesday, October 28, 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m. at the Ambrosia Centre, 638 Fisgard Street, Victoria. Guest presenter Peter Grant of Benjamin Obdyke Western Canada will discuss managing moisture in residential walls, including energy efficiency, water resistive barriers, health considerations and code compliance. There is no charge for this event, but you must confirm your attendance by October 26 to jmcoe@shaw.ca

1 Core LU

Canadian Wood Council / Wood WORKS!

B.C. Fall Wood Design Luncheon Conferences

You are invited to attend the following presentations on Durable Wood Exteriors, being offered at three B.C. locations this November:

Durability by Design - The Do’s and Don’ts of Exterior Wood Detailing
Speaker: Bill Billups, AScT, Technical Consultant. Wood Works! BC

Durability by Nature and Durability by Treatment  
Speaker: Paul Morris, PhD, Group Leader – Durability and Protection, FPInnovations

Durability a Factor in Sustainable Wood Design
Speaker: Witmar Abele MAIBC, MRAIC, LEED® AP Principle, KMBR Architects Planners Inc.

When and Where:

Kelowna:	Wednesday November 18, 2009, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.          Grand Okanagan  Resort, 1310 Water Street
Kamloops:	Thursday November 19, 2009, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Coast Canadian Inn, 339 St. Paul Street
Victoria:	Tuesday, November 24, 2009, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Delta Ocean Pointe, 45 Songhees Road

Sessions are free for those who pre-register with the Canadian Wood Council. To do so, please go to http://www.cwc.ca.

3 Core LUs

IMAGINiT Technologies

BIM for Construction & Buildings
As adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) continues to grow, the construction industry is starting to receive the attention it deserves from leading software manufacturers. Join IMAGINiT Technologies for an exclusive event focused on the latest Autodesk solutions and how they can benefit members of the construction association. Learn how products such as Autodesk Quantity Take Off, Design Review and Navisworks can streamline your business processes and make a dramatic difference to your bottom line.  This half-day event is targeted at contractors, construction firms, estimators, home builders, structural engineers and related professions. It takes place Thursday, November 19, 8:15 a.m to 1:00 p.m. at the Sheraton (Vancouver (downtown). For details and to register, please contact Kam Seignarack by e-mail (kam.seignarack@rand.com) or phone (604-207-2114).

4 Core LUs

Revit MEP Fundamentals

Learn about building information modeling and the tools for parametric Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) systems design and documentation using Autodesk Revit® MEP. Begin the four-day guide by learning the fundamental features of Autodesk Revit MEP, then progress through schematic design, system analysis and construction documentation before finishing with design visualization. Prerequisite: A working knowledge of Microsoft® Windows® Vista, Microsoft® Windows® XP, or Microsoft® Windows® 2000. MEP engineering design, drafting or engineering experience is highly recommended; previous CAD experience is not necessary. It takes place November 9 - 12, 2009. For registration and more information, please contact the IMAGINiT Technologies AEC Account Executive at kam.seignarack@rand.com.

26 Core LUs

Association of Professional Engineers & Geoscientists of BC (APEGBC)

The Integration of Mechanical, Structural & Envelope Systems Towards Net Zero Buildings
This workshop will explore ideas, provide technical study data and help inform future direction for engineers of all disciplines to take an active role in the design of sustainable buildings. We will engage and inspire your business to integrate sustainable strategies into your designs. By the use of information, case studies and interactive group discussion you will be able to develop your road map to work collaboratively towards net zero energy, water, and optimization of materials in buildings. The cost is $282.45 per person.

Victoria:	Monday, December 7, 2009 - for details and to register, click here.

4 Core LUs

University of British Columbia School of Environmental Health

Ergonomic Quality in Facility Design

Back by popular demand in Vancouver, this session will focus on the process of incorporating ergonomic quality into the design of new facilities or renovations of existing facilities.  The UBC School of Environmental Health has presented this one-day interactive workshop numerous times over the past three years, including in BC, Alberta, Washington and California.  Architects, planners and designers have found this to be an informative course and a worthwhile opportunity to interact with other professional groups. Small group exercises will enable practice in determining flow and identifying concerns.  The next session takes place Tuesday, October 27, 2009, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the YWCA Hotel, 733 Beatty Street, Vancouver. For more information and to register, please visit http://www.soeh.ubc.ca/Continuing_Education/default.stm or contact Lydia Ma by phone (604-822-9599) or e-mail (lydia.ma@ubc.ca).

6.5 Core LUs

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)

15th Annual Housing Outlook Conference

CMHC is pleased to be hosting its annual Housing Outlook Conference on Monday, November 9, 2009 at the Westin Bayshore Hotel in Vancouver. In addition to providing housing industry professionals with access to timely forecasts and solid analysis on B.C.’s housing market, this event is an excellent networking opportunity. CMHC experts will share their insights on housing demand, market fundamentals, new home construction, and resale markets trends with a focus on the Vancouver market. Participants will also expand their knowledge of Canada's financial system and the importance of securitization for mortgage lending while learning what's new in sustainable housing. The conference rate of $265 + GST. There is also a group rate of $1200 + GST for tables of six. For more information or to register, please call 1 (800) 668-2642 or visit www.cmhc.ca.

3 Non-core LUs

The Vancouver Heritage Foundation

Old School: Courses for Building Conservation

This award-winning program brings theory and practice together and emphasizes hands-on learning.  To complete the certificate, participants must take the core course Heritage 101: Understanding Heritage Conservation and seven elective courses. For a complete 2009 course listing, click here.

Current Exhibit: BCIT Architectural Science Degree: Graduating Projects 2009

September 11 - November 4, 2009
AIBC Gallery: #100 – 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver

The British Columbia Institute of Technology’s Bachelor of Technology in Architectural Science is a four-year baccalaureate degree that provides the architectural and engineering communities with graduates who have demonstrated through academia and relevant work experience their ability to either enter the work place with a high level of competency or ladder to a professional degree, such as the Master of Architecture. The works included in this exhibit display a wide variety of projects submitted for graduation in 2009. They represent the students’ responses to the Lower Mainland’s social housing needs as well as their vision for projects such as the Ladner Waterfront Redevelopment, to name but one. For more information, please visit www.bcit.ca/ or contact Program Head Peter Levar MAIBC, MRAIC at Peter_Levar@bcit.ca.

Upcoming Exhibit: FUTURESOCIAL

Monday, November 9, 2009 - Monday, January 5, 2010
AIBC Gallery: #100 – 440 Cambie Street, Vancouver

This fall, the AIBC Gallery will feature select entries from the recently-held FUTURESOCIAL ideas competition. Jointly supported by the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture and the B.C. Ministry of Housing and Social Development, this social housing design competition stimulated numerous innovative design ideas for supportive housing to combat homelessness.

Delta Vancouver Suites

AIBC Registrants can receive the Preferred Corporate Rate for individual travel bookings at Delta Vancouver Suites. Situated in the Heritage District in downtown Vancouver, Delta Vancouver Suites is one block from Waterfront Station, Harbour Centre Tower, and Pacific Centre Mall. Whether travelling for business or pleasure, guests can also enjoy convenient access to in-house facilities such as meeting rooms and a 24-hour fitness centre. For additional benefits, upgrade to the Delta Privilege program when booking for longer stays. For more information, please contact 1-888-663-8811 or vancouversuites@deltahotels.com.

Notice: Changes to Canadian LEED® AP System

LEED® AP examinations will be changing in January of 2010, when a new tiered system will be introduced. The Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) will be taking over the administration of the LEED® AP system at that time. Individuals who wish to take the current LEED® exam and become a LEED® AP before these changes take place should note the following deadlines as the LEED® NC and LEED® CI workshops offered in the fall will be your opportunity to do so:

• October 23, 2009: the last date to book your LEED® exam (either LEED® NC or LEED® CI).
• December 31, 2009: the last date by which you can write the LEED® Canada NC exam or the LEED® Canada CI exam. On January 1, 2010 these exams will no longer be available in Canada. Note: Even if you intend to take an exam before this deadline, it must be scheduled before October 23.

The Canada Green Building Council encourages anyone interested in writing these exams to register and schedule their exams as soon as possible due to the high volume expected during this period.

Call for Presenters: BUILDEX Vancouver

The next edition of BUILDEX Vancouver, one of Canada's largest conventions and trade expositions, takes place at the Vancouver Convention Centre on April 21-22, 2010. This event is focused on architecture, interior design, property and real estate management, construction and renovation. It features 40 or more educational seminars and over 550 exhibits, brings together more than 12,000 design, construction and real estate management professionals each year. Proposals are now being accepted from those Interested in presenting at the April conference. The deadline is Monday, October 26, 2009. Please note that all seminars must contain educational content. Proposals having a product or service promotional angle will not be considered. For more information, visit http://www.buildexvancouver.com/index.htm.

Final Review of National Construction Code Changes

The Building and Safety Policy Branch invites you to take part in the final public reviews of proposed changes to the model 2005 National Construction Codes. The proposed technical changes cover four main topics (care occupancies, climbable guards, protection against falls from residential occupancy windows, and radon), plus updates to the tables of documents currently referenced in the codes as well as seismic data and localities in Appendix C of the NBC. The online review, hosted by the Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes, can be accessed at www.nationalcodes.ca. The opportunity to comment will be available from September 1 until October 30, 2009. As these codes are used as models for the British Columbia Codes, all interested parties in B.C. are encouraged to participate in the public review process. It is anticipated that changes reflected in the 2010 National Codes will be included in the next editions of the British Columbia Codes, scheduled for release in 2011.

RAIC Awards Exhibition (Nanaimo)

From October 15 until November 15, the Nanaimo Art Gallery will have on display submissions from the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada’s awards programs. This exhibit features award-winning projects from three RAIC programs:

• 2009 RAIC Awards of Excellence - bestowed every two years in recognition of the greatest achievement in the categories of Allied Arts, Innovation in Architecture, Advocate for Architecture, Architectural Firm, and Green Building;
• 2008 Governor General's Medal's in Architecture - which recognizes outstanding achievement in recently-built projects by Canadian architects; and
• 2008 National Urban Design Awards - part of a two-tier program held in cooperation with major metropolitan centers across Canada.

This exhibition takes place at the NAG’s downtown location, 150 Commercial Street.

Canada and Germany Conference and Trade Mission

The Canadian German Chamber of Industry and Commerce is hosting a partnership event in Vancouver called Canada and Germany ­- Energy Efficiency in Buildings & Green Building. It includes a one-day conference that will examine the latest technologies in the green building sector with both Canadian and German expertise, such as Thomas Mueller, President – Canada Green Building Council. It also features a trade mission representation from eight German companies. The conference and luncheon will take place on November 18, 2009, 9.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m. at the Pan Pacific Hotel in Vancouver. The trade mission runs from November 16 = 20. Both are free of charge, For further information on the conference, click here. You can also contact Katharina Gerberding by phone at (514) 844-3051 or e-mail at consulting.montreal@germanchamber.ca.

Island Outlook Evening

The Vancouver Island Construction Association invites you to attend Island Outlook: 2010 Economic Forecast. This evening presentation will address such questions as whether or not the economic recovery has truly begun, key indicators of recovery, and accessing credit. Presenters include Cameron Muir, Chief Economist – B.C. Real Estate Association; Helmut Pastrick, Chief Economist – Credit Union Central of B.C., and Tom Siemens, Regional Vice President – Royal Bank of Canada. It happens Wednesday, October 28 at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Victoria, from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m., and includes a reception and dinner. AIBC members are eligible for the member rate of $90. For more information, please contact Business Manager Rosie Manhas by phone (250-388-6471) or e-mail (manager@vicabc.ca).

BC Building Envelope Council: Heat, Air and Moisture Management

You are invited to attend an upcoming luncheon offered by the British Columbia Building Envelope Council. Titled "Fundamental Physics of Heat, Air and Moisture Management", it will examine the role of water, air and vapor barriers in achieving moisture managed envelope design, as well as recent North American code trends and their consequences on the capacity of the building envelope to manage incidental moisture intrusion. The seminar will conclude with highlights of design tools for moisture analysis as well as recommendations for specifying and detailing durable building envelopes. Presenter Maria Spinu leads Building Science and Sustainability for DuPont Building Innovations. She also works with the Energy Efficiency in Buildings (EEB) Project, a global initiative of World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). The luncheon takes place Thursday, October 29, 2009, 12:00 noon - 2:00 p.m. at the Plaza 500, 12th Avenue and Cambie Street, Vancouver. Register online at www.bcbec.com/seminar-registration.php

PKN8

Volume 8 of Pecha Kucha Night Vancouver is slated for Thursday, October 29 at the Park Theatre. These events are meant as a showcase for Vancouver’s creative talent. Scheduled presenters include:

• Robert Chaplin, Writer
• Harrison Boyce, Design Artist
• Cori Creed, Artist
• RozeMerie Cuevas, Designer - Jacqueline Conoir
• Camilla d'Errico, Artist
• Vanessa Fors, Designer - Next Door Style
• Jocelyn Fortier, Creative Director - Jocelyn Fortier
• Alden Habacon, CBC Diversity Manager/ Publisher of Schema Magazine
• Andrew Laurenson, Artistic Director - Radix Theatre
• Andrew Morrison, Editor & Publisher/ Food & Restaurant Columnist
• Mike Nowland, Graphic Artist
• Brent Toderian, Director of Planning - City of Vancouver

The cost is $10, and tickets are limited. Go to www.festivalcinemas.ca

Public Design & Construction Procurement Forum (Kelowna)

Are you involved in planning for the construction of a new municipal hall, fire hall, school, recreation centre or any other public building in the near future? Have you considered the various ways in which that project might be managed, at both the design and construction stages?  “Public Design & Construction Procurement For Local Governments and Public Organizations - A Collaborative Dialogue” is a one-day forum that will examine the implications of different project delivery methods, issues and concerns regarding the selection and bidding processes, fairness, terms of engagement, accountability, and risk management. It will be of interest to all decision makers involved in public construction procurement, bidding, and management as owners, buyers or suppliers in the construction process. This collaborative forum presents a unique opportunity for improved understanding of the different perspectives of client, purchaser, and supplier. Participants will gain improved knowledge of key matters in putting out a biddable project including selecting the appropriate procurement strategy and increased awareness of the types of workable modifications and issues in today’s construction climate, as well as a list of contacts and resources for future reference.

Date: Time: Location: Cost:	Thursday, November 19, 2009 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Ramada Hotel & Conference Centre, 2170 Harvey Avenue, Kelowna $150 + GST (Includes refreshment breaks and lunch)

Register online at www.civicinfo.bc.ca/Conference/procure2009.asp. The registration deadline is November 12, 2009.  This forum is made possible though a collaborative alliance of members from the Local Government Management Association of British Columbia, the Architectural Institute of British Columbia, the British Columbia Construction Association, the British Columbia Institute of the Purchasing Management Association of Canada, the Consulting Engineers of British Columbia, and the Master Municipal Documents Association.

Call for Presenters: 2010 OAA Conference

The Ontario Association of Architects invites proposals for continuing education sessions at its 2010 Annual Conference, May 5 – 8 in Windsor. Organizers are looking for speakers who excel in their field of expertise, and can captivate and educate their audience. The OAA conference is a chance for architects to step back from daily demands and acquire new knowledge that contributes to general expertise and understanding. If you are inclined to grow professionally, meet interesting people and share your stories, then presenting at the conference is a process that you should undertake. The most important consideration in applying is to choose a topic that is relevant to the profession of architecture and architectural practice and for which you have passion. The deadline for submission is October 30, 2009. For detailed information including approved subject matter and application forms, visit http://oaa2.corefusion.net/client/oaa/OAAHome.nsf/web/Con+Ed+Call+for+Proposals?OpenDocument.

HPO Building Smart Webinars

This fall, the Homeowner Protection Office will be piloting web seminars based on previous Building Smart live presentation seminars. These webinars will be accessible from one’s computer, making them available province-wide to an audience that includes licensed architects, builders, suppliers, manufacturers, building designers, building officials and many other building professionals who have attended the Building Smart series of seminars presented throughout B.C. over the past six years. Available this winter, the first webinar entitled Avoiding Moisture Problems in Houses will provide practical information that will help you avoid moisture problems in the construction of single detached houses and townhouses. Additional information will be posted on the “What’s New” section of the HPO website (www.hpo.bc.ca) during November.

UBC Survey of Architects

The University of British Columbia is investigating how sustainability is influencing material selection for green buildings. AIBC members are invited to take part in an online research survey in order to gather firsthand feedback from practicing architects across the country. The 30-question survey (10 to 20 minutes) will explore on how architects select materials for green building design. In appreciation for sharing their professional knowledge and experience, participants will receive a copy of the published study results. All responses will be kept anonymous and strictly confidential. To access the survey, visit https://vp-nri.com/take?i=154089&h=0M7pShQyqCt5GvZFecQq1w. The survey will remain open until November 2, 2009. Your participation is truly appreciated.

H1N1 Information Campaign

Individuals and businesses are being encouraged to inform employees about the H1N1 flu virus, and to take steps to prevent its spread. Detailed information, as well as flyers and other resources, can be found online at www.gov.bc.ca/h1n1/. HealthLink BC is also providing a 24-hour information line (8-1-1). Additional resources include the HealthLink BC web site (http://www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthfiles/hfile108.stm), Vancouver Coastal Health (http://www.vch.ca/about_us/news/h1n1_flu_virus__human_swine_flu__information) and the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/).

Journeys to the East: Arthur Erickson and Japan

The Arthur Erickson Conservancy presents an illustrated lecture by Professor Michelangelo Sabatino, who, in the summer of 2009, retraced Erickson’s first journey to Japan in 1961. Sabatino, a professor at the Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture, University of Houston, revisited the sites Erickson mentioned in his seminal 1960s articles in Canadian Architect. For this lecture, he will discuss the effect Erickson’s journeys to Japan had on his work, including the Osaka Pavilion for Expo ’70. This illustrated presentation will be followed by a question-and-answer discussion and a reception. It takes place at on Wednesday, November 25, 2009, 7:00 p.m. at the Vancity Theatre + Atrium, Vancouver International Film Centre, 1181 Seymour Street, Vancouver. For more information, please contact Cheryl Cooper at info@arthurericksonconservancy.com.

Arthur Erickson’s Secret Garden Tours

The creative spirit of Arthur Erickson still resides in the unique, tranquil and secret garden behind a cedar fence on the Point Grey property where the world-renowned architect resided for more that half a century. The beautiful yet informal garden conveys Japanese and West Coast design influences with a large reflecting pond, typical of Erickson’s work. The Arthur Erickson House and Garden Foundation, a charitable non-profit society incorporated in 1993 to acquire the Erickson house and garden, is working with the City of Vancouver to acquire heritage designation and restoration, thereby protecting the property as a place of education and inspiration for future generations. To support this effort, the foundation is opening the garden for guided public tours at set times until October 29. Admission is $10, and advanced notice is required. For further information and tour reservations, please call (604) 738-4195 or e-mail aegarden@telus.net.

Governor General's Medals

The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada and the Canada Council for the Arts are pleased to invite architects to participate in the competition for the 2010 Governor General's Medals in Architecture. The objective of this awards program is to recognize and celebrate out­standing design in recently com­pleted built projects by Canadian architects. It continues a tradition initiated by the Massey Medals in 1950, providing an important source of understand­ing of the nature of Canadian archi­tecture and the regional, cultural and historic forces expressed in the built environment. As many as 12 medals will be awarded this year. Eligibility is limited to projects built in and outside of Can­ada, completed between January 1, 2003 and September 1, 2009 and for which licensed/registered ar­chitects who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada were the lead design architects. Projects having received a Governor General’s Award in Architecture in a previous competition, or with involvement of a member of the RAIC staff, RAIC board or Canada Council for the Arts staff are not eligible. Winners will be selected by a peer assessment committee. The primary criterion will be the architectural artistic merit of the design, in­cluding such elements as conceptual clarity, site compatibility, detailing, innovation and uniqueness, and sustainable design. The deadline for submissions is November 19, 2009. Submission details are available online at http://www.raic.org/honours_and_awards/awards_gg_medals/2010call/gg-submission_e.htm. You can also visit the RAIC website at www.raic.org.

IHC2010

Registrations and abstracts are now being accepted for the International Housing Conference 2010, taking place in Singapore from January 26-20. 2010. This event, organized by Singapore’s Housing and Development Board with a theme of “Sustainable Housing: Charting New Frontiers”, will bring together eminent experts, leaders and professionals to share their experience, perspectives and vision on the subject of sustainable development with a focus on housing. For more information on the conference program and topics, visit the website at http://www.internationalhousingconference.com/. To register, go to http://www.internationalhousingconference.com/online.html. An early bird rate is in place until November 30.

Going For Gold: 10th Annual Canadian Brownfields Conference

The 10th Annual Canadian Brownfields Conference is coming to Vancouver this fall from October 26 – 28 at the Westin Bayshore Hotel. Join delegates for Canada's premier national conference and trade show devoted to brownfields. Event attendees will explore such issues as:

• The increasing business imperative to add value through incorporating sustainability into new development models;
• Innovative financing strategies that are turning plans into reality;
• Innovations in new clean technologies and green remediation methods; and
• Labour force capacity, skills and training, and related liability issues.

The 2009 program also includes in-depth case studies, three specialized workshops, and tours of local brownfield sites including the Coal Harbour waterfront trail; Victoria’s Dockside Green; Pacific Place; and the Southeast False Creek Olympic Village. For more information, to register, or to exhibit, go to www.canadianbrownfields.ca or email brownfields@canurb.com.

World Architecture Festival

This year’s World Architecture Festival takes place November 4 - 6, 2009 in Barcelona. Submissions are now being accepted for its prestigious awards program. In addition to the Completed Buildings category, event organizers have added three new sections from which to choose: Future Projects, Interiors and Fit Out, and Structural Design. For more information and to enter, visit www.worldarchitecturefestival.com.

A Fresh Look at 20Th Century Architectural Heritage

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

IDIBC Awards of Excellence (Deadline Extended)

Have you completed a fantastic project in the last couple of years? Are there any projects that were particularly challenging or gratifying? If so, please consider submitting to the 2009 IDIBC Awards of Excellence, an annual awards program that recognizes and celebrates excellence in interior design. It is open to projects completed between September 30, 2007 and September 30, 2009. NOTE: The deadline to obtain a submission number for this year’s IDIBC Awards of Excellence has been extended to Friday October 23, 2009. The deadline for actual submissions is 12:00 noon on Friday, October 30.. Submissions are due by October 30, 2009. Note: there have been some changes to the program. For detailed information, including the call for entries, project categories and submission kits, visit http://www.idibc.org/news/post/2009_idibc_awards/.

Sony World Photography Awards

Do you have a passion for architectural photography? The 2010 Sony World Photography Awards, one of the world’s largest photography competitions, invites you to give it your best shot. The competition includes an Architecture category for both professional and amateur photographers. In 2009, more than over 60,000 entrants from 139 different countries took part. The overall winner receives the L’Iris D’Or title as well as a $25,000 cash prize. The selection for Amateur Photographer of the Year earns a $5,000 cash prize. The 36 category finalists will have their photos included as part of the Sony World Photography Awards Global Tour throughout 2010 and 2011. The judging panel for the competition will be comprised of members of the World Photographic Academy. The competition is free to enters, and the closing date for submissions is December 4, 2009. For further information please visit www.worldphotographyawards.org.

Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize

The Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize is a biennial international award to recognise individuals and organizations who have made outstanding contributions to the creation of vibrant, liveable, and sustainable urban communities. Nominations are applicable for any individual or organization who have demonstrated a key leadership role in areas such as urban planning, policy and programming, and applied technology for urban solutions. The inaugural prize will be awarded in June 2010, as part of the World Cities Summit 2010 in Singapore. For more information, please visit www.leekuanyewworldcityprize.com.sg.

Brick Design Competition

British Columbia architecture students are encouraged to participate in “Brick-stainable: Re-Thinking Brick”, an international design competition sponsored by Potomac Valley Brick. Current “green” and “living” building initiatives acknowledge the importance of integrated design solutions to achieve sustainability goals. This competition seeks to explore the potential of brick construction in the creation of an energy efficient building and challenges design teams to maximize the physical characteristics of this construction in the creation of integrated design solutions. The project involves creating a hypothetical guest house utilizing brick that is a model of energy efficiency. By exploring the thermal qualities of clay masonry construction, designers are asked to create a net-zero energy building utilizing this as a primary material. A reputable jury will select winners in two distinct award categories: Whole Building Design and Technical Design, with nearly $30,000 in prize money to be given out. The deadline for entries is October 30, 2009. For registration and details, including site description and drawing, visit the competition web site at www.brick-stainable.com.

The Wide Spectrum of Green
Think every architect is on board to fight global warming? Think again

By Amanda Kolson Hurley, Architect Magazine
October 6, 2009

A few years ago, the debate in the media and in academia over global warming took a different turn: It stopped being, well, much of a debate. In early 2007, the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change reported that human activity was, with a likelihood above 90 percent, the main cause of rising temperatures.  Just this year, a poll by two scientists indicated that 97.4 percent of climatologists believe human activity has driven global temperature changes. Clashes of opinion on this issue among experts, concluded pollsters Peter Doran and Maggie Kendall Zimmerman, are now “largely nonexistent.” More …

Architectural Jewel Goes Straight to L

By Christopher Hume, Toronto Star
October 16, 2009

It's not pretty watching a city destroy itself, not even when we're told destruction is something to celebrate. Welcome to Toronto, where next Wednesday will mark the official start of construction of the so-called L Tower. Normally the launch of yet another condo would warrant little more than a groan. In this case, however, the condo will be built beside and on top of the Sony Centre. Formerly known as the O'Keefe Centre, the old concert hall is one of the best remaining examples of 1960s architecture in Toronto. More …

Bing Thom on Building Urbanism With a Light Touch

AIArchitecture
October 16, 2009

Bing Thom, AIA, can rightfully say he’s in the business of building cities — but not in the imperial, strong handed, single-authorship mode of Robert Moses or Corbusier. His Vancouver-based firm Bing Thom Architects specializes in regenerative urbanism that works on many scales, from individual cultural, institutional, and commercial buildings to urban master plans that reroute rivers and create new neighborhoods. This work proves that such ambition and optimism need not be accompanied by contextual disregard and formal pomposity. More …

McMansions, be Gone
Forward-looking architects team up to make modern home designs affordable

By Jaci Conry, Boston Globe
October 22, 2009

 

Mark Johnson, a Houston-based builder and developer, found himself discouraged by the lack of affordable modern home plans for people looking to build a house. The residential architecture market was instead awash with plans for McMansions, each more predictable than the last. More …

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