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SEPTEMBER 2026 ARCHITEC TURE | DESIGN | CONS TRUC TION PM #40065475

40 YEARS

1986-2026

GSP GROUP

PRODUCT FEATURES: METAL ROOFING/CLADDING ❱ BUILDING ENCLOSURE SYSTEMS ❱ CURTAIN WALL & WINDOW WALL MASONRY ❱ KITCHENS ❱ LIGHTING ❱ REINFORCING STEEL ❱ ELECTRICAL & COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS

OVERHEAD GATE PROTECTION

Where overhead crane activity meets pedestrian walkways, protection can't be optional. Our engineered, modular overhead gate systems shield pedestrians from falling debris while providing safe, unobstructed passage for construction vehicles. Available in widths of 20', 24', 30', 40', 50' and 60'.

projects

CONTENTS

61 BC Place FIFA Renovation Vancouver, B.C.

67 Raymond High School

Raymond, Alberta

69 Academic Wood Tower – University Of Toronto

Toronto, Ontario

71 Bethesda Regional Health Centre Steinbach, Manitoba

75 CIM-TAC – Red Deer Polytechnic Red Deer, Alberta

77 Hamilton Transit Bus Maintenance and Storage Facility Hamilton, Ontario

79 Century Gardens Youth Hub Brampton, Ontario

81 Saanich Fire Station #2 Saanich, B.C.

83 Brooks Junior High School Brooks, Alberta

85 South End Community Centre

Guelph, Ontario

87 Royal BC Museum – PARC Campus Colwood, B.C.

91 Jim Pattison Acute Care Tower – Royal Columbian Hospital (Phase 2) New Westminster, B.C.

93 Jack Bell Building Renewal – UBC (SOWK) Vancouver, B.C.

95 TEK Tower

Kitchener, Ontario

97 Village SoHo

London, Ontario

99 IntraUrban Southlands Vancouver, B.C.

Cover Photo: GloveBox Office Redevelopment [mcCallumSather Architects] & Garment Street Condos [ABA Architects] Photography by: Riley Snelling/Courtesy GSP Group

features 4

RAIC PERSPECTIVE Building for humanity.

A TOAST TO TEAMWORK GSP Group’s three-decade journey began with a beer, a vision, and a commitment to thoughtful design.

SKIN IN THE GAME From slate and terracotta to solar façades, building enclosure systems are evolving.

HOLD THE LINE The metal roofing and cladding market continues to perform well despite economic pressure.

THE MULLION-DOLLAR QUESTION As performance expectations and market conditions shift, versatility remains a defining strength of the curtain wall and window wall industry.

GETTING TO THE CORE Reinforcing steel remains a critical component of Canada’s construction landscape amid shifting demands.

COUNTER INTELLIGENCE Kitchens are evolving with innovations that make every inch work harder.

WATT’S UP Lighting systems are becoming a more central element in how spaces are designed and experienced.

CARRYING THE LOAD Electrical and communications systems enter a new era of building performance.

THE COMEBACK KID Masonry today combines centuries of craftsmanship with next-generation possibilities. S EP T EM B ER 2026

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PERSPECTIVE SEPTEMBER 2026 VOLUME 40 | NUMBER 3 Publisher

DAN CHAPMAN

604.473.0316 dchapman@canadawide.com Editor

by SHEHNAZ JAFFAR Manager, Marketing & Communications, RAIC

NATALIE BRUCKNER Senior Art Director

SCOTT LAURIE

Building For Humanity

he 2026 RAIC Conference on Architecture brought Canada’s architectural community together in Vancouver, B.C., from May 5 to 8, uniting architects, interns, students, and allied professionals to explore the latest in architectural thinking, research, and practice. Held at the Sheraton Wall Centre, the four-day event delivered a program built around professional excellence and societal impact, featuring keynotes, tours, networking events, and industry exhibitions. Michael Green opened the conference with a keynote challenging delegates to rethink how the profession defines value, dignity, and human connection amid rapid technological change. Vancouver-based architect and founder of MGA | Michael Green Architecture argued that architecture’s future depends less on competing with technology and more on embracing qualities AI cannot replicate: empathy, judgment, cultural understanding, and wisdom. Green urged delegates to move beyond thinking of “housing” as a technical or economic commodity, and focus instead on “homes” as places of belonging, identity, safety, and dignity – with impacts on health, child development, loneliness, and social cohesion. He addressed affordability pressures, housing instability, and regulatory inefficiencies, calling for stronger national leadership, greater investment in innovation and prefabrication, and a shift toward longterm human outcomes over short-term construction costs. He closed by encouraging architects to reclaim their role as cultural leaders and advocates for the public good. RAIC COMMITTEES, WORKING GROUPS, AND NATIONAL LEADERSHIP This year, the RAIC’s committees, task forces, and working groups hosted continuing education sessions focused on advancing key priorities and gathering delegate insights to inform advocacy, resources, and work plans for the year ahead. The Promoting Equity and Justice Working Group examined the federal Build Canada Homes initiative, noting the limitations of a supply-only approach and expanding discussion to accessibility, newcomer housing, long-term care, climate resilience, and Indigenous self-determination. The Long-Term Care Working Group explored limitations of current care models, culturally responsive design, interdisciplinary collaboration barriers, and emerging technologies in care environments. The Fees and Procurement Working Group gathered feedback on a draft position statement addressing architectural fees, professional value, and procurement integrity, emphasizing public understanding of architectural services and fairer procurement practices. The Truth and Reconciliation Task Force examined how architecture can engage meaningfully with reconciliation, tracing histories and policies shaping the profession while encouraging reflection on ongoing responsibilities.

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Additional panels covered the Indigenous Task Force’s work to translate UNDRIP principles into practice around consent, authorship, and accountability; the Professional Practice Working Group’s updates on CCDC contracts and practice support; and the Committee on Regenerative Environments’ case for viewing decarbonization as a strategic opportunity rather than a compliance burden. Together, these sessions reinforced the role RAIC’s committees play in shaping future advocacy, resources, and member engagement. SPECIAL EVENTS, ARCHITECTURAL TOURS, AND EXPERIENCES Beyond education sessions, the conference offered a rich lineup of tours and events. Architectural tours centred on mass timber innovation, visiting the Hillcrest Aquatic Centre, 837 Beatty Street heritage rehabilitation, Vienna House, Marpole Community Centre, and the 981 Davie residential tower. Indigenous-led development was spotlighted through Sená̓ ḵw, the Sḵwx̱ wú7mesh Nation’s landmark project that is transforming Vancouver’s skyline. Other highlights included a Granville Street neon sign heritage walk, the Broadway Subway’s Great Northern Way Station, UBC’s Biomedical Engineering Building and Sauder Powerhouse expansion, the Gibson Art Museum, and a Granville Island urban sketching tour. The conference’s most anticipated experience, a Studio Crawl through downtown Vancouver, offered a self-guided evening visit to nine architectural firms, capped by a sold-out “Last Stop” party at Henriquez Partners Architects. The RAIC College of Fellows Convocation Ceremony at the Vancouver Playhouse honoured the 2026 RAIC Fellows, followed by a reception at Cosentino. Closing-day events included “Lunch with a Fellow” with Angela Brooks and Lawrence Scarpa, and the President’s Dinner honouring RAIC Annual Awards recipients, followed by the After/Parti Nightcap. Attendees could also explore the UIA Friendly and Inclusive Spaces Awards exhibition, the Cinema Immersion film experience, and the National Student Work Showcase. INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIPS AND COLLABORATION Industry partnerships and sponsorships were integral to the conference, supporting keynote lunches, convocation ceremonies, tours, social events, and the Studio Crawl. New this year, the Architecture Expo: Industry Showcase offered rapid-fire sessions on May 6 covering mass timber, fire-rated glazing, sustainable materials, and firm operations, allowing attendees to earn up to four hours of learning units. The 2026 RAIC Conference was a testament to the ingenuity and social impact of Canada’s architectural community and to volunteers, sponsors, exhibitors, and partners who made the event possible. The next conference will take place in Calgary, Alberta, May 5 to 8, 2027.

Contributing Writers

ROBIN BRUNET LAURIE JONES JESSICA KIRBY

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CEO & Group Publisher RYAN BENN Group VP, Publishing & Operations NINA WAGNER Group VP, Finance CONROY ING, cpa, cma VP of Finance SONIA ROXBURGH, cpa, cga Group VP, Education & Administration JANE GRIFFITHS VP of Sales ANNA LEE Director of Circulation TRACY MCRITCHIE Accounting EILEEN GAJOWSKI TERRI MASON Circulation KELLY KALIRAI Ad Technician KIM MCLANE Executive Assistant JULIE FISHER

Award magazine is published four times a year by Canada Wide Media Limited. Head office: 130, 4321 Still Creek Drive, Burnaby, BC V5C 6S7. Phone 604.299.7311, Fax 604.299.9188. Send covers of undeliverable copies to address above. Publications Mail Agreement No. 40065475. © 2026. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. Award is distributed to architects, interior designers, landscape architects, consulting engineers, specification writers, development companies and major construction companies throughout Western Canada and Ontario. For subscription information call 604.299.2116 or email: subscriptions@ canadawide.com. National Library No. ISSN 1202-5925. Printed in Canada by Transcontinental Printing. Award magazine welcomes your letters, corporate announcements or company information. The statements, opinions and points of view expressed in articles published in this magazine are those of the authors and publication shall not be deemed to mean that they are necessarily those of the publisher, editor or Canada Wide Media Limited. The acceptance and publication of advertisement of products and services does not indicate endorsement of such products or services. The publishers cannot be held responsible for unsolicited manuscripts and photographs.

A Toast To Teamwork GSP Group’s three-decade journey began with a beer, a vision, and a commitment to thoughtful design n St. Patrick’s Day in 1995, three friends met over a beer in a Waterloo pub and began sketching out an idea that would not only reshape their professional lives but, over time, influence the way communities across Southwestern Ontario take shape. Bill Green, Glenn Scheels, and Chris Pidgeon saw a region on the edge of change. What they shared was a belief that planning work should be deeply connected to place, grounded in local understanding, and committed to long-term community building. From that conversation, Green, Scheels, Pidgeon Planning Consultants was formed. The name was soon shortened by clients to GSP, a practical abbreviation that eventually became the firm’s identity. It began with five people working out of the Waterloo region, focused initially on land use planning and municipal policy work. Over time, the practice expanded in both scope and depth. Planning was joined by urban design and landscape architecture, forming a fully integrated multidisciplinary practice that allowed projects to be understood more holistically. That shift proved foundational. “The multidisciplinary advantage gave us the ability to look at the three-dimensional development of the city,” according to Scheels. Today, GSP Group operates as a 100 percent employee-owned firm with 13 employee shareholders and a culture shaped by shared responsibility and long-term thinking. Profit sharing has been maintained for three decades, and reinvestment flows into professional development, tools and technology, workplace improvements, and leadership growth. Internal committees support everyday culture, with regular events organized throughout the year and a strong emphasis on connection among staff. This structure has helped sustain both continuity and adaptability as the firm has grown to approximately 50 employees.

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The firm’s physical presence has evolved alongside its work. In 2000, GSP established its head office at 72 Victoria Street South in Kitchener, anchoring itself in what has become the city’s Innovation District. Expansion followed into Hamilton, first opening in 2006, reopening in 2010 on Rebecca Street, and later settling on Locke Street South in 2015, growing from a small team into a steadily expanding office that reflects the firm’s broader trajectory. Renovations in both locations in recent years have focused on flexibility, collaboration, and supporting a hybrid way of working, with spaces designed for shared work, informal exchange, and evolving team needs. The Kitchener office also reflects local creative influence, including large-scale murals by artist Stephanie Scott that reinforce a sense of connection to place. Across its work, GSP has built a portfolio that reflects the breadth of its integrated approach, and the work truly speaks for itself. It’s little wonder the firm has received 15 industry awards over the past five years alone. Queen Street Placemaking in Kitchener stands as a perfect example. Completed in 2020, the award-winning public realm project reimagined a constrained downtown corridor as a more open, pedestrian-focused environment. The design carefully addressed the challenges of a narrow site, introducing a barrier-free and highly legible urban space within the core. Below-grade, equally thoughtful interventions support the surface experience, with trench drains and upgraded stormwater connections working to manage runoff and reduce the risk of localized flooding. The result is a space that feels intuitive and inviting, while performing with technical precision. A different but equally compelling expression of the GSP approach can be seen in the Larch Street Woonerf in Waterloo. Recognized with multiple awards, the project advances pedestrian-first design through a series of subtle yet deliberate moves. GSP Group

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GONEFLYING PHOTOGRAPHY AND MEDIA

by NATALIE BRUCKNER | photography courtesy GSP GROUP

South Common, University of Waterloo

[CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT] PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADAMSKI TOMASZ; GSP GROUP; GONEFLYING PHOTOGRAPHY AND MEDIA; MATTHEW SMITH

Larch Street Woonerf

The Cumberland Apartments

Barrel Yards

Queen Street Placemaking

A gently curving alignment encourages slower vehicular speeds without the need for overt traffic control, while a field of multicoloured pavers, arranged in a running pattern, signals a shared condition where the street is no longer defined by cars alone. The design shifts behaviour through form and material, creating a safer and more engaging environment for pedestrians and cyclists, while supporting active transportation in a natural, unforced way. At a larger scale, the Barrel Yards redevelopment in Waterloo reflects GSP’s role in shaping significant urban corridors over time. This mixed-use project demonstrates how intensification can be thoughtfully integrated through co-ordinated planning and design, balancing density with livability. It’s an example of long-term city building, where individual phases contribute to a broader and more cohesive urban vision. Institutional work has also been a consistent thread in the firm’s portfolio, particularly through its ongoing relationship with the University of Waterloo. The South Common project illustrates this experience. GSP led the design of a central campus space organized around a prominent plaza, complete with movable seating and shaded gathering areas. The project involved substantial regrading of an existing berm to improve sightlines, accessibility, and pedestrian flow, alongside the integration of bioswales and infiltration features to support stormwater management. Careful co-ordination during construction allowed the work to proceed in phases, maintaining access to surrounding buildings and minimizing disruption within a highly active campus setting. Beyond project work, the firm maintains a steady commitment to community contribution, supporting local organizations through donations, sponsorships, and matched giving programs that total more than $25,000 annually. That same orientation toward community carries into its internal culture and long-term direction. As now president Steve Wever says, at GSP growth isn’t only about numbers, it’s the collective experience, capabilities, expertise, and interests. “As our team evolves, so too does our ability to respond to the opportunities and challenges ahead. Whether it’s housing, climate change,

public health, technology, regulation, or other emerging issues, our people are driven to make a positive impact. We work collaboratively to develop solutions and improve outcomes for our clients and communities. “As our team gains new perspectives and experiences, we strengthen our ability to deliver innovative solutions, build lasting relationships, and achieve meaningful results. Our growth as individuals directly fuels our growth as an organization.” With a strong business model built on shared ownership and shared success, GSP’s employees have opportunities to invest in the company, participate in leadership development programs, and advance their careers, and that means a lot today. “Through a diverse range of projects, clients, consulting partners, and communities, our professionals can learn, grow, and pursue meaningful work within a collaborative and supportive team environment,” says Wever. It’s no surprise that GSP Group was recognized as the 2026 Business of the Year (11 to 50 employees) by the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce at the Business Excellence Awards Gala. Three decades after that first conversation in a pub, the firm continues to build on the same foundation that shaped its beginning, and that includes a genuine appreciation for people and time spent together. That spirit carries through today in ways both formal and informal, from collaboration on projects to a lively internal culture supported by a Social Committee that organizes close to 20 events each year. From Summer Kick-Off BBQs to themed potlucks marking everything from National Cheese Day in January to National Pickle Day in November, along with a hotly contested Holiday Desk Decorating competition, the firm has maintained a sense of connection that extends well beyond the workplace. What began as a small group with a shared idea has grown into a multidisciplinary practice where planners, urban designers, and landscape architects work side by side to develop creative, collaborative, and innovative solutions to often very complex community-building challenges. Not a bad legacy for a conversation that started over a beer. Cheers to what’s next. A

GSP Group

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Build Faster. Build Smarter. Build with Prefab Precast Concrete.

BUILD Faster. BUILD Smarter. BUILD with Prefab Precast Concrete.

In response to Canada’s housing needs, prefab precast concrete provides a powerful solution. It is faster, durable, and cost-effective, as each component is made in a controlled environment. Prefab precast concrete offers superior quality, making it a resilient and sustainable approach to addressing Canada's mid to high–rise housing shortage. Find out more about the benefits of using prefab precast concrete for your next project.

Let’s build fast, affordable housing together! Owner: K&H Developments | Architect: Gardner Architecture Inc. | Engineer: Grubb Engineering Precast Supplier: Eagle Builders LP | Photos courtesy of Eagle Builders LP

For more information, visit: www.cpci.ca/publications or scan the QR Code.

info@cpci.ca

CONSTRUISEZ

Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) façade by Mitrex.

Skin In The Game From slate and terracotta to solar façades, building enclosure systems are evolving

A PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY MITREX

By ROBIN BRUNET

s developments in 2026 demonstrate, building enclosure systems include products using the latest technologies as well as materials that have been in use for thousands of years – all of them providing the resiliency developers require in addition to stunning aesthetics. For example, Mitrex is a leading building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) manufacturer dedicated to integrating advanced solar technology with architectural design to create energy-efficient, aesthetically pleasing building solutions. Mitrex’s solar façades have benefitted recent high-profile projects such as the Binghatti Mercedes-Benz residences in Dubai and, closer to home, The Sunrise residential/ rental building retrofit in Edmonton. For the latter project, the retrofit incorporated a BIPV façade on all elevations of the 12-storey building, with a fully solar mural on the north façade. Initially, the client, Avenue Living Asset Management, planned to use fibre cement siding as the cladding solution, but it was decided that a BIPV façade would help achieve Avenue Living’s goal of a 50 percent reduction in carbon emissions (a requirement for securing retrofit financing). Working with architect MBC Group and general Building Enclosure Systems

The Sunrise, Edmonton, AB

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THE ARTHUR MEIGHEN BUILDING SHOWCASES THE SEAMLESS INTEGRATION OF NBK TERRACOTTA PRODUCTS, REDEFINING URBAN LANDSCAPES WITH A PERFECT BLEND OF INNOVATION AND DESIGN EXCELLENCE. ARCHITECT: DIALOG DESIGN; PRODUCT: NBK TERRACOTTA; INSTALLER: FLYNN GROUP OF COMPANIES; PHOTO: LISA LOGAN SOUND SOLUTIONS INNOVATIVE ARCHITECTURAL PRODUCTS 389 DEERHURST DRIVE BRAMPTON, ONTARIO TEL: 1.800.667.2776 OR 416.740.0303

WWW.SOUNDSOLUTIONS.CA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXANDER SEVERIN/COURTESY EQUITONE

contractor Chandos, Mitrex was able to develop a 267 kW BIPV system that generates 180,000 kWh annually – equivalent to the energy needs of 23 residential homes. For another recent retrofit, Alberta’s Chinook regional hospital’s 7,000 square feet of a failing southern façade was replaced by energy-generating panels manufactured in custom dimensions to accommodate the hospital’s unique façade structure. The panels can power the equivalent of 10 residential homes and did not compromise the project’s design or budget. Ease of use on site is a perpetual goal and fulfilled by products such as Equitone by Etex. The Equitone fibre cement rainscreen panel is designed for open-joint, ventilated façade systems, and its longevity (50-plus years) and resistance to extreme temperatures have resulted in its use in many projects, the most recent of which include the Make the Road New York civic landmark in Queens, New York; and the Chicken Ranch Rancheria Administration Building in Jamestown, California. Equitone [tectiva] was selected for Make the Road New York due to its mineral texture and muted tones, which gave the façade a grounded, refined presence as well as durability, contributing to a quiet architectural language intended to support the organization’s work rather than overshadowing it. Equitone [natura] was selected for the rainscreen cladding of the Chicken Ranch building to deliver a durable, lowmaintenance surface with a tactile, mineral finish that complements the user group’s

BUILDING

THE FUTURE

cultural landscape. The three-storey facility is a formal civic presence for the Chicken Ranch Rancheria of MeWuk Indians in Jamestown. Also, the façade’s warm, earthy tones and mineral striations intentionally echo the nearby Table Mountain, while the building’s clean, modern lines provide a contemporary counterpoint to the natural palette. Equitone fibre cement rainscreen panel by Etex.

Equitone panels, which are through-coloured, can be transformed into any size or shape using standard tools, perforated using waterjet or CNC machines, and even embossed and printed. The prevalence of technologically advanced enclosure solutions is matched by enthusiasm among developers and designers for what could be described as “classic” enclosure materials. Jeff Ker, senior technical advisor at Engineered Assemblies, describes one such product as “a natural material that has been used in construction for thousands of years, is easy to install, non-combustible, and incredibly resilient when used as cladding. Frankly, there are no downsides to this material.” The material in question is slate, traditionally used for roofing as far back as the Roman Empire but increasingly valued as cladding because it has very low permeability to water and is unaffected by temperature changes and ultraviolet light, in addition to being non-combustible. Plus, slate’s embodied carbon value is said to be 16 percent less than other materials, since during tile production it is subjected only to extraction and shaping – no other treatment is required. Cupaclad slate, available from Engineered Assemblies, is extracted by hand with chisels from 20 quarries located in northwestern Spain (home to the biggest deposits in the world). It is shaped into a variety of forms – mosaics, trapezoids, hexagons – and can be placed vertically, irregularly, and integrated with other materials. “Cupaclad meets aesthetic preferences for a clean, contemporary grey appearance, and its

SMART CONCRETE®

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ABRASION & EROSION RESISTANCE Hard-Cem® adds unmatched durability to your projects, reducing concrete wear and extending lifespan.

KRYTON.COM Building Enclosure Systems

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PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY ENGINEERED ASSEMBLIES

lifespan increases at least four times when used as cladding because, unlike slate for roofing, it is subjected to much less snow load, rain, and solar heat gain fatigue,” Ker says. “As for installation, it can be attached in traditional fashion, with stainless steel hooks or in a shiplap fashion with fasteners going right through the slate.” The new 204-bed Cowichan District Hospital is a prominent Cowichan District Hospital, Duncan, B.C. example of a Canadian project that has used Cupaclad, and Ker is confident that as more architects and developers discover the product, “the material will become as universally accepted as metal in protecting commercial, institutional, and residential buildings.” In a similar vein, terracotta for architectural use (bricks, roofing tiles, reliefs) dates back to Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley around 3000 BCE, and today the material is used with great love and care by Andrew Rogers, principal at Sound Solutions. Sound Solutions is a distributor of the most innovative interior and exterior architectural products in the world. Its exterior products include an extensive line of cladding from industry leaders in metal, stone, concrete, terracotta, and even solar shading design, who use recycled materials and sustainable production processes whenever possible.

December 2026

ANNUAL INDUSTRY FEATURE:

Concrete

Book your ad space now: | Dan Chapman 604.473.0316

Honor Your Design. Rely on the Right Fire Safety. Satisfy safety regulations and reward your creativity with Aluflam, the key system featuring true extruded aluminum vision doors, windows and glazed walls, fired-rated for up to 120 minutes. Aluflam products are indistinguishable from non-fire-rated doors and windows and are available in a wide portfolio of most architectural finishes.

Given this diversity, Sound Solutions has contributed to projects ranging from high-end private residences to well-known commercial brands (Cactus Club Cafe) and architecturally distinct structures (the Arthur Meighen Building designed by Dialog). Rogers reports that “We’re enjoying a busy 2026 and anticipate a robust 2027. While there’s a lot less university and other institutional projects than in past years, there’s an uptick in municipal work and infrastructure jobs. Also, opportunities in Alberta are on a steep rise after five years of quiet, and the investment in federal military upgrades is a major opportunity for us.” New amongst Sound Solutions’ offerings is Flexbrick, a unique flexible architectural cladding system that allows the creation of façades and roofs (as well as pavements and pergolas). The modular technology was developed in Barcelona, and the ceramic fabric at the heart of this system allows designers to combine materials, textures, shapes, volumes, and pixel densities, thus fulfilling a huge Building Enclosure Systems

Photo: ©Jason O’Rear

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LISA LOGAN/COURTESY SOUND SOLUTIONS

Arthur Meighen Building, Toronto, ON

Fire-Rated Aluminum Window And Door Systems

Aluflam North America 562-926-9520 aluflam-usa.com

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THE STRENGTH OF INTEGRATION

A 194,000 sq. ft. food production facility completed with just 44 days of precast installation. By integrating structural precast wall panels with a steel roof system, the project leverages the strengths of both materials—delivering a durable building envelope, efficient roof support, and faster construction.

Structure that carries more. stubbes.com

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY KRYTON

range of aesthetic objectives. “Flexbrick is receiving a lot of interest in Canada due to its versatility,” Rogers says. Rogers’ passion for high-quality materials is matched by his promotion of them, a prime example being a recent trip he arranged with 10 different Canadian architects to England to show them first-hand the prevalence of NBK Terracotta as a cladding in that country. “That particular material, which I love working with, was evident in universities, hospitals, offices, condos, and even in a new subway station in London’s Canary Wharf district,” he says. “The architects were blown away and hopefully inspired to think of the many ways terracotta can be used back home.” Durabond’s contribution to the building enclosure category includes the Durex brand, which offers both precision-manufactured prefabricated panels as well as non-combustible cladding systems and continuous insulation systems (EIFS). New from Durabond is Elastolith brick slips as a finish option for its EIFS system. The addition of Elastolith gives project teams the ability to achieve authentic masonry brick appearances, as well as designer finishes including wood grain, stone block effects, custom colours, shapes, and façade patterns. The Durabond EIFS system has been ULC S134 Fire Endurance tested with Elastolith, and the brick slips add a proven European product platform with more than 40 years of successful use in climates ranging from Scandinavia to the Mediterranean. Andre Rapone, manager at Durabond, says, “The ability to incorporate authentic masonry brick looks, along with wood grain, stone block, and fully customized colours and shapes, opens the door to more creative exterior designs while maintaining the advantages of a proven EIFS system.” With concrete being a fundamental material of building enclosures, the Canadian Precast Concrete Institute (CPCI) continues to promote it as vital for many types of applications. As such, the institute is currently drawing attention to studies conducted by Mantle Climate to evaluate the environmental performance of precast concrete building systems across Canada. Mantle’s analysis examines three building configurations. The first combines a precast concrete building envelope with a cast-in-place concrete structural frame. The second features a precast envelope and floor system supported by a steel structure. The third is a fully integrated total precast solution, incorporating precast components for both the building envelope and primary structure. Each system was evaluated in five major cities: Vancouver, Edmonton, Toronto, Montreal, and Halifax. By comparing the carbon performance of these systems across diverse geographic regions, Mantle provides valuable insights into how structural and envelope design decisions can influence a building’s total carbon footprint. Its findings support more informed decision-making for project teams seeking to reduce emissions and advance low-carbon construction strategies. Mantle’s three reports are available on CPCI’s website. Meanwhile, given concrete’s dominance in the building industry, Kari Yuers, CEO of Kryton, has repeatedly stated that changes in bleed rates, setting behaviour, and environmental sensitivity can increase the risk of cracking, finishing issues, and reduced durability if not managed properly. In short, adapting to these material changes is critical for delivering durable structures. Fortunately, Kryton’s extensive range of waterproofing admixtures and repair products has by this point become standard applications in the commercial, institutional, and industrial construction sectors, with projects such as the BC Children’s and BC Women’s Hospital redevelopment and Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands integrated resort as examples of Kryton’s effectiveness in treating concrete to achieve long-term resiliency Application of Krystol Waterstop Treatment. and protection against water ingress. Building Enclosure Systems

December 2026

ANNUAL INDUSTRY FEATURE:

Insulation

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NAT URA LLY PERFEC T ™ C OLOR AND PERF ORMANC E.

David Rubenstein Tree House at Harvard University | Boston, Massachusetts Photo Credit: Jason O’Rear retains all copyrights.

Sansin Precision Coat™. High performance wood protection for mass timber structures. PC WoodForce has a 20-year history of performance. As a newly certified fire rated Euroclass D topcoat for “Class A” fire treated timber, conforming to ASTM E84. PC WoodForce will provide added value and beauty as it weathers naturally, making long term maintenance easy. Warrantied for up to 20 years, Precision Coat factory finishes deliver the color, transparency and performance that architects, engineers and builders can count on.

1-877-SANSIN-1 sansinfactoryfinish.com

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY AMRIZE CANADA

But for all of Kryton’s prominence in the construction sector, Yuers and her colleagues say that they still see mistakes made in the field, with three in particular warranting mention. The first is the reliance solely on membranes for critical belowgrade protection (a better approach is using Kryton’s KIM to turn concrete itself into a waterproofing system by forming crystals within the material’s capillary pores that self-seal cracks up to 0.5mm). Ignoring construction joints and penetrations is another prime mistake Yuers and her colleagues continue to witness, with cold joints, tie holes, formwork transitions, and mechanical and electrical penetrations being particularly vulnerable areas. A complete Krystol Waterstop System ensures that these points receive the same level of protection as the concrete. The third mistake is something Yuers has frequently discussed: not planning for concrete movement and long-term service conditions, and this has compelled her team to state emphatically on the Kryton website: “Waterproofing should be integrated into the design phase, not added late in the schedule. Using systems that can adapt to movement – like crystalline waterproofing – offers far greater long-term resilience. Built-in crack healing creates durability that changes with the structure.” Finally, Amrize has expanded its Elevate portfolio of Isogard products to include a new size. “Specifically, on the commercial roofing side, Isogard is now available in 4-by-12-inch panels,” says Jasmeet Deol, director of marketing and sales at Amrize Canada.

Elevate’s SBS peel-and-stick Modified Bitumen Roofing System.

Isogard’s well-known thermal performance is designed to protect against ponded water, cold weather and other adverse conditions, and the provision of a larger panel (previously Isogard was available in 4-by-4 and 4-by-8 panels) means more on-site benefits. “It makes shipping more efficient, and it also addresses labour constraints,” Deol explains. Another new product released in May pertains to Elevate’s SBS Modified Bitumen Roofing Systems, the membranes of which use proprietary rubber-based

polymer technology with selected asphalt compounds to deliver exceptional flexibility and durability, even in extreme cold. “We’ve introduced a self-adhering, peel-and-stick SBS system whereby membranes can be placed on top of base layers without torch and flame work,” Deol says. “Not only does this eliminate the dangers of open-flame jobs, but it also eliminates the steep insurance premiums associated with that process, and yet has the same durability of standard SBS bitumen roofing products.” A

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STEEL BUILDINGS + INSULATED METAL PANELS

MADE IN CANADA www.behlen.ca

HOLD THE LINE The metal roofing and cladding market continues to perform well despite economic pressure Rimouski Multisport Stadium, Rimouski, QC

RENDERING COURTESY HONCO

he resiliency of the metal roofing and cladding market is easy to understand, driven as it is by the need for durability, energy efficiency, and long-term value for building owners. Accordingly, providers are busy despite the ongoing fallout of the U.S. tariffs. “The market for our products is strong across all sectors, as building performance expectations combined with the need for design versatility continue to rise,” says Sandrine Fortier, marketing and communications manager for Quebec-based metal building specialist Honco. Honco’s newest project on home turf is the Rimouski Multisport Stadium. The project consists of a full-size synthetic field for soccer (54.99 metres by 93.00 metres), modular configurations suitable for other sporting events, and a suspended running track with three 1.2-metre-wide lanes, integrated into the same enclosure as the playing field. The building also includes a mezzanine with bleachers, offices, and locker rooms; construction is expected to be completed next year. Fortier notes that “Increasingly, architects and developers want to combine materials and fixtures to create more distinctive buildings. In short, customized solutions. This doesn’t necessarily mean more money must be spent on development, but it does require more upfront consultation. Fortunately, that’s one of our strengths. We always take our clients by the hand, from A to Z, regardless of the size or complexity of the project. This, combined with the versatility of our roofing and cladding options, makes Honco well positioned to take advantage of business opportunities moving forward. “In fact, we’re aiming to grow our presence in Canada as well as increase our supply chain, which for decades has relied on steel manufactured in Ontario.” Gino Coco, VP OPEX, business development and estimating at Flynn Canada Ltd., describes his company’s 2026 workload as “Very steady, comparable to past years and benefiting from a focus on defence spending, especially in our northern regions where the resiliency of metal roofing and cladding is especially important.” The list of federal government expenditures in this regard reflects the opportunities awaiting metal roofing and cladding manufacturers and providers, and it includes $32-billion earmarked for Forward Operating Locations (FOLs) in Yellowknife, Inuvik, and Iqaluit; $294 million for Arctic airports, including Metal Roofing/Cladding

by ROBIN BRUNET

the modernization and upgrades of Rankin Inlet and Inuvik airports; as well as major upgrades to Canadian Armed Forces bases across Canada. Coco suggests that this may compensate for paused spending in other sectors, such as the B.C. government recently suspending some health care-related projects. “The focus on the north dovetails with our preference to work on medium- to large-sized projects, as well as our skills as a building envelope contractor driven by design requirements,” he says. Sean Lepper, vice president and general manager at Behlen Industries, says the federal government’s investments in revitalizing Canadian military infrastructure “are a welcome and important facet of our growth and will translate into a lot of big projects. However, our optimism about opportunities is also backed by the fact that so many other sectors, including the resources industry and commercial, are busy. Plus, data centres are a field of work for us that didn’t exist a few years ago.” Brandon, Manitoba-based Behlen is equally known for being a preengineered building specialist as for the products of its sister company Artspan, which include Artspan insulated metal panels (which can be installed as exterior and interior vertical walls and high-performance roofs) and Artspan structural panels (self-framing panels that can reduce or eliminate the need for additional structural framework). Behlen is Canada’s largest manufacturer of steel building systems, and earlier this year it got even bigger with the acquisition of EasCan Building Systems of Nova Scotia, which for the past 35 years has designed, fabricated, and constructed steel structures throughout Atlantic Canada, for clients including Moncton Airport, Starbucks, and Van Meekeren Farms. While retaining EasCan staff and infrastructure, Lepper says EasCan will likely be rebranded as Behlen Atlantic “and will allow us a much greater presence in this part of the country, not to mention doing away with the expense we previously had to absorb in shipping product to this part of Canada.” Sobotec is one of North America’s largest fabricators of metal composites and engineered panel systems. It also revolutionized the architectural and building industries by creating the first rainscreen systems for metal composite materials. Jamie Goodfellow, president at Sobotec, says despite the tariffs that have challenged companies like his that do a great deal of work south of the border, S EP T EM B ER 2026

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“We’re still active in the U.S. thanks to our high-end quality product, design resources, and engineering. Our American clients are still very interested in using our products and services, and together we’re finding ways to share the expenses generated by the current tariff system.” But perhaps more importantly, Sobotec is intensifying its focus on the Canadian market, where Goodfellow says opportunities abound. “The auto dealership market is steady, and the luxury dealership market is especially robust,” he says. “And even though it has slowed depending on location, Canada’s condo market remains important. “As for the near future, there are lots of investments being made in the sports and entertainment markets, and growth continues in the casinos sector. So, we’re optimistic in our outlook, and we continue to find ways to be more efficient, one example being the automation of our stamping and bending processes, as well as meeting demand trends, the latest of which seems to be a strong interest in perforated panels.” Sustainability is another important (and perpetual) objective for many clients, and at Nucor this translates into using electric arc furnace (EAF) technology to transform scrap steel from old cars, decommissioned bridges, and other end-of-life infrastructure into new steel products for use in construction. This circular process has been Nucor’s approach to business for decades, and today the company recycles more than 20 million tons of scrap steel annually to make everything from beams and sheets to insulated metal panels (specifically, architectural insulated metal panel systems under the Centria and Metl-Span brands). Nucor’s low-embodied carbon circular steel products are especially beneficial to the development of data centres, which is expected to see a CAGR of between 7.5 and 8.1 percent between now and 2030 (the sector grew to 31.9 million square feet last year alone). Because data centre construction is both energy- and material-intensive, Nucor’s offerings are viewed as a sustainable option, especially in two areas: the core and shell of the centres (including structural steel, insulated metal panels for the roof and walls, and rebar for the foundation); and the racks, cages and structures for IT equipment and cooling and airflow containment. Nucor also has data centre construction experts available who can suggest product and design solutions when required.

Metl-Span architectural insulated metal panel system.

Longboard Architectural Products Inc., which recently celebrated its 20th anniversary, is well-known for using only the highest-grade aluminum and powder-coating finishes available on the market. Recent projects serve as a showcase for Longboard’s ability to make metal cladding appear like natural wood. The exterior feature wall of the Tall City Brewing Co. in Midland, Texas, is clad entirely in Longboard’s Table Walnut finish, a deep, warm-toned woodgrain with pronounced grain movement and rich variation between dark and midrange tones. The Table Walnut finish itself carries enough contrast between lighter sapwood tones and darker heartwood passages that grain movement is legible, even at a distance. The striking appearance of the wall is also the result of thoughtful distribution of plank faces, causing observers to scan them without finding a repeat – which is precisely what makes metal panels seem like wood instead of cladding.

Some facades look simple— until it’s time to build them. When complex geometry meets real-world construction, engineering makes the difference. With one of the largest in-house engineering departments in the industry, Sobotec turns complex designs into buildable façade solutions. The McMaster Graduate Student Residence. A complete envelope of Sobotec’s systems.

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North Shore Rescue facility, North Vancouver, B.C.

Cascadia also recently joined the Architectural Institute of British Columbia’s Recognized Education Provider program, which works with professional organizations, educational institutions, architectural firms, commercial enterprises, and individual professionals to extend a wide variety of professional development opportunities. The motivation behind joining the program is simple, Gill says: “When someone is selecting a metal roof, wall system, or architectural panel, we want Cascadia Metals colours to be part of the conversation from the very beginning, not just at the purchasing stage.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTIN KNOWLES/COURTESY CASCADIA METALS

Christ Church Cathedral, Vancouver, B.C.

Creating a natural look using metal was also the objective of the new North Shore Rescue facility in North Vancouver, which is surrounded by forest and nearby mountains. Nick Bray Architecture selected Longboard’s aluminum cladding with a wood aesthetic not only to help make the building fit into the landscape, but also to make it resistant to combustibility from wildfires. Cascadia Metals’ distinction is that it is the largest distributor of pre-painted steel in Western Canada. It offers over 100 stocked colours and is continuously expanding the colour lineup to align with changing trends and market demand. Cascadia overall is committed to providing clients with a wide range of product choices. “To give one example, we are now supplying aluminum extrusion for architectural and structural applications,” says Balraj Gill, Cascadia’s marketing co-ordinator.

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WHERE STRUCTURE MEETS DESIGN

HONCO.CA Triumph delivered a multiscope project at the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte Elder Care Home, completing both the metal roofing and solar PV installations. The project included the installation of approx. 900 solar panels, totaling 600 kW DC, mounted on Triumph’s standing-seam metal roof system. By managing both scopes—from design through installation— Triumph ensured seamless execution and provided the owner with a fully integrated roofing and solar warranty.

Solar energy offsets a building’s electricity consumption and presents a strong financial case, particularly given the current incentives available in Ontario. With sustainability at the forefront, Triumph offers complete building envelope solutions, including roofing, cladding, glazing, waterproofing, geothermal systems, and solar energy.

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As for recent company investments, Gill says Cascadia added another cut-tolength line in its Delta, B.C. distribution facility to support growing customer demand throughout Western Canada; and it undertook a 132,000-square-foot expansion of its warehouse in Brandon, Manitoba, as well as adding a new stretch leveler cut-to-length line, which improves material flatness and consistency for manufacturing and fabrication. With nine specialist brands encompassing aluminum standing seam systems, composite panels, Spanish-rolled architectural zinc, precision-curved cold-formed steel, and many other products, Exterior Technologies Group (ETG) has earned a reputation for being Canada’s specialist for premium building envelope systems. ETG cites its work on Toronto’s The Boulevard Club expansion as an example of how its products can be aesthetically pleasing, link seamlessly with the existing structure, and provide the high degree of resiliency clients need both during the construction stage and over the long-term. Over 2,600 square metres of 1.2mm gauge Kalzip sheets with a high albedo reflective finish were manufactured and smooth-curved onsite in lengths up to 27 metres, with the vast majority of this work done in sub-zero temperatures. Since Kalzip is a non-penetrative system, through-fixings were not required, and because it is aluminum, the sheets could be on-roof welded around obstructions and protrusions without the need for mastics or sealants. Finally, although Elemex Architectural Façade Systems is well-versed in projects where metal serves as the primary cladding material, sales co-ordinator Lee-ah Durance points to the company’s Solstex cladding solution as one of its strongest areas of growth. Solstex is a building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) façade system engineered to withstand harsh climates while offering broad design flexibility. Its lightweight, large-format panels install faster than leading competitors’ products and integrate seamlessly with the full family of Elemex façade systems. As a BIPV system, Solstex replaces conventional cladding entirely while generating electricity. “In the past, solar was layered onto a building as an afterthought,” says Durance. “Solstex eliminates that step. The panels also deliver significantly more energy than comparable PV products, with reliable performance in high humidity and extreme weather.” Solstex Building-

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY ELEMEX ARCHITECTURAL FAÇADE SYSTEMS

Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) façade system.

Solstex also pairs easily with the metal elements of a cladding project. It installs on the same Unity attachment system used across all Elemex façade products, including Alumitex, which exceeds North American building code requirements and is a strong choice for projects calling for aluminum plate, ACM, or mixed-material façades. A Metal Roofing/Cladding

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSAY REID/ SILEX WINDOWS & DOORS

n recent years, the window wall and curtain wall industry has undergone significant change, driven by rising performance expectations, sustainability objectives, and evolving building codes. As a result, project teams are placing greater emphasis on thermal performance, airtightness, and long-term durability, particularly in institutional and publicly funded projects, says Zhen Liu of Silex Windows & Doors. Liu adds that triple glazing and higher-performing building envelopes are becoming more common across many regions of Canada. “We’re also seeing growing interest in embodied carbon and environmental product transparency. More architects and consultants are requesting environmental product declarations [EPDs] and lifecycle assessment information as part of the specification process. This reflects a broader industry focus on understanding the environmental impact of building materials throughout their lifecycle,” says Liu. From a product perspective, Liu explains that fibreglass continues to gain acceptance beyond the residential market. “We’re seeing increased interest in fibreglass window wall and curtain wall applications for schools, recreation facilities, Indigenous community projects, and other institutional buildings. Fibreglass offers excellent thermal performance, dimensional stability, and resistance to corrosion, making it well suited to Canada’s diverse climates,” says Liu. Curtain Wall & Window Wall

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Another area receiving attention from the SILEX team is field testing and quality assurance. As performance requirements become more stringent, greater co-ordination between manufacturers, installers, consultants, and testing agencies is becoming increasingly important to ensure successful project outcomes.

“At Silex, we’re excited to see continued innovation in high-performance building envelopes and growing recognition of fibreglass as a durable and energy-efficient material for commercial applications. We believe the industry will continue to move toward higher performance standards, greater environmental transparency, and more resilient building solutions,” adds Liu.

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PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY NORAM GLASS

THERMAL PERFORMANCE The experts at Noram Glass have also seen a continued push towards energy efficiency through improved thermal performance, along with higher demand for modular façade systems. This is particularly evident in designs with larger opaque areas that use materials beyond spandrel glass, including metal panels, porcelain, terracotta, and glass fibre reinforced concrete. “In line with the trends we have been seeing, the demand for high U-value products and better insulation, as well as the increased demand for modular façade systems providing higher quality and significantly accelerating the speed of erection,” says Jess Redlarski. “Two of our recent projects showcasing these features are Crosstown’s mixed-use residential building at 844 Don Mills Road in Toronto and Basswood Senior Residences in Brampton.” Noram sees strong opportunity for growth moving forward as the company continues to expand its fabrication and assembly capabilities to secure more major projects across Canada. It also plans to strengthen its position in additional international markets as conditions become more predictable and supportive. This focus on energy efficiency has put thermal performance under increased scrutiny, and curtain wall systems using LiteZone insulating glass units are increasingly specified where higher thermal performance is a priority alongside conventional façade design. These systems pair thermally broken aluminum curtain wall frames with LiteZone IGUs,

allowing a range of performance levels depending on project requirements. In Alumicor 2600 curtain wall systems, LiteZone L0465 IGUs are available, delivering R10.6G performance with a U-value of 0.094 NFRC. Ferguson and B.I.G. curtain wall systems offer a broader selection, including L0465, L0479, L0579, and L0679 units, with performance ranging up to R17.2G and U-values as low as 0.058 NFRC.

Crosstown, Toronto, ON

This range allows designers to balance energy targets with façade design considerations across different building types. LiteZone units are also noted for their extended service life and reduced longterm energy demand, which can contribute to lower heating and cooling loads over time. As energy codes continue to tighten, demand for higher-performance glazing assemblies like these remains steady in both new construction and retrofit applications.

FLEXIBILITY MATTERS The demand in commercial and institutional construction for curtain wall systems continues, driven largely by the need for flexible façade solutions that can adapt to a range of building types and site conditions. Columbia Glazing Systems manufactures both unitized and site-glazed curtain wall systems at its Burnaby facility, where in-house production supports consistent quality control and project-specific requirements. Unitized systems, offered in fully captured and foursided structural silicone glazed (SSG) configurations, are commonly selected for larger projects where installation speed and controlled fabrication are priorities. The systems feature a 2 ¾-inch sightline and depth options of 5 ¼ inches or 6 ¾ inches, depending on design needs. Site-glazed curtain wall systems remain a common choice where on-site flexibility is required. Available in fully captured or capless structural silicone configurations, they offer sight lines ranging from 2 inches to 2 ½ inches and are used across projects that require adaptable installation approaches while maintaining thermal performance expectations.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL GRDINA/COURTESY CASCADIA WINDOWS & DOORS

rendering courtesy Diamond Schmitt Architects

SPEED IS OF THE ESSENCE Another area where there is growing interest is factory-manufactured wall assemblies that allow for faster construction times onsite. These systems’ demands on windows now include tolerance for additional loads, such as flat installation, transportation, and craning, which add to a typical window product’s design loads. “Commercial-grade fibreglass frames have shown early promise in accommodating these loads well, while still meeting the performance targets sought by project teams,” says Michael Bousfield, technical director at Cascadia Windows & Doors. “The Chief Leonard George Building in Vancouver is a great example of a passive house, mass-timber building utilizing prefabricated wall panels to meet the stringent performance targets.” Bousfield says what excites him most now is the shift toward long-term building value. “Increasingly, owners, designers, and developers are looking beyond initial capital costs and evaluating façade systems over a 60- to 80-year lifespan. That changes the conversation from simply meeting today’s performance requirements to considering durability, maintenance, resilience, and lifecycle costs. The next generation of window wall and curtain wall systems will be defined not only by energy performance, but by how reliably they continue to perform and protect buildings for decades to come,” he explains. Cascadia is also seeing strong interest in integrated façade solutions that simplify construction and improve overall building quality. More and more, windows are being asked to accommodate features such as integrated Juliet balconies, decorative fins, sunshades, and similar elements, combining aesthetics, solar control, and performance within a single co-ordinated system. “Increasingly, successful manufacturers are able to use clever design to meet design requirements without sacrificing overall performance and durability or negatively impacting budgets,” says Bousfield. Curtain Wall & Window Wall

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DEMAND CONTINUES Despite current economic and political conditions, the market has, on the whole, remained highly competitive over the past year, underscoring a resilient

industry. Fortunately, governments have been proceeding with several large-scale public infrastructure and institutional facility projects to offset reduced activity in private-sector development.

This trend is reflected in several recent projects Phoenix has been involved in, including the Clinical Support and Research Centre, North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant, and Belleville Terminal redevelopment. The company’s proprietary glazing systems, fabrication facilities, and expertise enable it to offer unitized construction for most projects. “Unitized construction is far superior in quality and delivery to a site-built stick system for many reasons,” explains Jim Lebedovich, general manager at Phoenix Glass. “The fabrication environment is controlled so every aspect of the glazed panel is built under consistent and ideal conditions. Site times are greatly reduced, and they can premanufacture glazed panels well in advance of being required on site, which also enables sourcing of glazing materials from amicable supply partners worldwide.” That said, there’s still more work to be done in the current uncertain market conditions. “We just need some organization, co-ordination, and some alternate structural attachment details to make this happen. We would really like to see our industry move past the inefficiencies and site-related issues that come from old school stick-built site-glazed systems,” says Lebedovich. “With advanced technology available to the construction industry, there’s no reason pre-glazed assemblies can’t be successfully delivered by all glazing contractors.” A

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GETTING TO THE CORE

Reinforcing steel remains a critical component of Canada’s construction landscape amid shifting demands by ROBIN BRUNET

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY LMS GROUP; HERITAGE STEEL

hat is the state of the reinforcing steel sector in Canada in 2026? A clear idea is hard to come by. Canada’s steel industry overall continues to be battered by the U.S. tariffs. According to the Canadian Steel Producers Association, the U.S.’s role as the largest source of foreign steel in Canada has diminished significantly one year into the trade war, with American steel producers shipping 22 percent less product – or about 70,000 tonnes – to this country in 2025. Yet, viewed through the lens of oncoming demand, the rebar sector looks a little more promising. According to market research consultancy firm IndustryARC, the Canadian rebar market size is estimated to grow at a rate of 4.4 percent between 2025 and 2031, due to heightened government funding for infrastructure. IndustryARC also notes that the increasing adoption of Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) technology and the rising use of high-strength rebar are two key trends shaping the Canadian market, and it cites Algoma Steel’s recent production launch of EAF production with an expected annual capacity of 3.7 million tonnes: “This shift enables higher recycled content and is projected to cut Algoma’s carbon emissions by approximately 70 percent, aligning with Canada’s sustainability objectives.” For many companies, early 2026 saw brisk business. Nucor Rebar Fabrication (formerly Nucor Harris Rebar) is part of a corporation that is North America’s largest steel manufacturer and recycler, which “delivered a strong start to 2026, with our steel mills segment achieving a new quarterly shipment record,” according to Leon Topalian, Nucor’s chair and CEO. “All three of our operating segments reported sequential earnings growth, driven by strong demand across key end markets [and] growing contributions from recent capital investments.” Still, there’s no denying that in the near term, the market remains volatile. On one hand, companies such as LMS continue to be busy: it recently reached a milestone when the shopping mall portion of its multi-year Oakridge South redevelopment reopened to the public in May, and the entire five-millionsquare-foot, $6.5 billion project will wrap in 2029. On the other hand, a certain degree of softness has crept into business opportunities. “From my perspective in the rebar industry, the Lower Mainland Reinforcing Steel

construction market is still somewhat active; that said, activity is softer than it was a year ago and much softer than it was five years ago,” says Steve Selig, branch manager at Langley, B.C.-based Heritage Steel Sales Ltd. “Our current workload remains stable, but not overly busy.” Heritage Steel, a division of the Salit Steel Group of Companies, is in its fifth generation of family-owned operation, providing a wide variety of rebar (epoxy coated, threaded, post tensioning systems) and services, including consulting and budgeting in addition to fabrication and installation.

When asked in June for his perspective on the market’s health, Selig said, “We’re seeing more companies chasing fewer projects, which is putting pressure on margins throughout the industry. Competition has become increasingly aggressive, and in many cases, pricing is being driven to levels that are difficult to sustain. We’re also seeing labour rates being pushed down to levels that are becoming increasingly difficult to sustain as companies fight to secure work, which raises concerns about the long-term health of the industry and its ability to attract and retain skilled workers.” S EP T EM B ER 2026

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Leaders in Rebar and Post-Tensioning Fabrication and Installation Since 1987. LMSGROUP.CA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIT STEEL

Selig goes on to note that, “The Canadian Government’s steel tariffs and quotas are adding cost pressures and supply issues to the supply chain. On the West Coast, we’ve historically relied heavily on offshore rebar supply, which is now virtually non-existent. Current trade measures have also made it difficult to bring rebar in from the U.S. at competitive prices. All of this adds cost to construction at a time when affordability is already a major issue.” Other challenges abound. “The cost of living continues to rise, home ownership remains out of reach for many people, and that ultimately affects housing demand and project viability,” Selig says. “At the same time, population growth has slowed considerably compared to recent years, adding further uncertainty to future housing demand.” Still, professionals such as Selig benefit from having spent decades in the industry and realizing that market ups and downs are common in his chosen field. “I’ve seen slowdowns and uncertainty before,” he says. “The challenges are real, but Heritage Steel has always worked through these cycles due to our strong relationships and long-term focus, and I expect we’ll do the same again. Construction has always been a cyclical industry, but the difficult part is never knowing exactly how long a downturn will last, so I’m cautiously optimistic about 2027.” Challenges aside, some companies are in growth mode and preparing for busy years ahead. That is the case with Welland, Ontario-based Kit Steel, which is currently supplying rebar for a mix of commercial, residential, infrastructure, and institutional projects across Ontario. Its success can partly be attributed to accessibility. “We focus on being responsive, reliable, and easy to work with,” says Kit Steel general manager Mike Kubes. “We’re large enough to handle complex jobs, but small enough that every project still gets personal attention.” June of this year found Kit Steel in the midst of installing a new Pedax Permatic 60SK double bender, followed in July by the commissioning of another new machine, a Schnell Eura20 stirrup bender. “We’ve been growing, and we needed to make sure the shop could keep up with larger and more complex projects without just adding more manual labour,” Kubes says. The machines are specialized, but not experimental. “One machine gives us more bending capacity, and the coil machine lets us process certain sizes

Reinforcing Steel Kits Steel.indd 1

of rebar more efficiently from coil instead of straight bar,” Kubes says. “It also allows us to take advantage of the larger-sized coil being offered by our local suppliers, something that wasn’t available until recently.” He adds, “They help good people be more productive. Rebar fabrication still requires experienced operators who understand how our product fits into the supply chain and the realities of getting steel fabricated and delivered as ordered and on time. What the machines do is take some of the more repetitive or time-consuming work and make it faster, more consistent, and safer. “For Kit Steel, this gives us more room to grow by increasing our capacity. It allows us to take on more work, improve turnaround times, and stay competitive as a Canadian manufacturer.”

Kit Steel’s new Pedax Permatic 60SK double bender.

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PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY LMS GROUP

When asked to describe the state of the market, Kubes echoes Selig’s pragmatic sentiments. “I would say it is mixed. It’s not as simple as saying everything is booming or everything is slow. There are still a lot of projects out there, especially in infrastructure, institutional, commercial, and industrial sectors. At the same time, higher costs, interest rates, and uncertainty have slowed down some private projects. “From our perspective, the work is there, but you have to be competitive, efficient, and reliable. Customers are watching cost and schedule very closely.” Kubes adds that, thanks to the addition of the double bender and stirrup bender, “we will be in a better position to produce the material efficiently and keep projects moving.” In Quebec, AGF Group Inc. has recently been successful in pursuing business opportunities both in its home province and in Western Canada, examples of the latter being supplying 4,500 metric tonnes of rebar for the new Calgary Event Centre. In Atlantic Canada, AGF supplied over 1,900 metric tonnes of rebar for the Cape Breton Regional Hospital expansion in Nova Scotia. Other projects include the rehabilitation of the Frederick House Lake Dam in Northern Ontario, in collaboration with Stuart Olson. This project, scheduled for completion in the summer of 2026, highlights the importance

of maintaining critical infrastructure while showcasing the expertise and adaptability of AGF teams in complex environments. Over 200 metric tonnes of rebar was required to upgrade key structural elements, including piers, sluiceways, and bulkheads. The work was carried out in highly confined areas that required extremely precise rebar placement and close co-ordination to ensure constructability. The project also required custom bar shapes, specifically developed to match the non-standard shape of the piers. Additionally, drilled dowels were used to anchor new reinforcement into the existing concrete, ensuring proper connection and structural continuity between old and new elements. Finally, Geraldine Raedemaeker, AGF’s communications and marketing manager, announced in May that her company had been named (for the first time) by Deloitte as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies in 2026. In thanking Deloitte, she noted that AGF’s core strength was its people: “Every day, our employees embody our core values – leadership, performance, teamwork, health and safety – and contribute directly to the quality of our projects and the trust of our partners. “It is this collective effort that enables us to reach such a high level of excellence in the rebar industry.” A

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Reinforcing Steel

PLAYING TOGETHER TO GIVE SUPPORT FOR BC’S KIDS On behalf of the organizing committee, we would like to thank all participants and supporters of the 31st Annual Building for Kids Charity Golf Classic beneﬁting BC Children’s Hospital, which took place on Thursday, July 16, 2026. This sold-out event hosted 144 golfers from across the construction and development industry in BC for a fun-ﬁlled day at Morgan Creek Golf Course in Surrey, BC.

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This year’s tournament successfully raised $245,000, bringing the tournament’s cumulative total to more than $4.8 million. Net funds raised will support the Excellence in Child Heath Fund at BC Children’s Hospital, ensuring kids have access to the best care possible. Also, thank you to Award Magazine for providing this ad each year to recognize all participants and sponsors. For a full list of supporters and to learn more about the event, please contact golf committee chair Gavin Yee at GYee@ventanaconstruction.com. GOLD THEME SPONSORS

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Bosa Development Nedco Bush Bohlman & Partners Richards Buell Sutton LLP DNA Electric Ltd. SLS Group Industries Inc E.B. Horsman & Son Texcan Enviro-Vac Wesco Graybar Canada in Partnership with Bridge Electric Guillevin International Homan Rooﬁng Inter-Lite Sales Ltd

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Redefining

INTEGRATION Discover the elegance of U-Line products, expertly crafted for seamless integration. These undercounter refrigeration appliances preserve beverages, food, and wine, beautifully. Featuring concealed soft-close hinges and adjustable grille options that accommodate a custom toe-kick panel designed to disappear into the cabinetry. With ultra-tight reveals and the easiest panel installation on the market, U-Line products offer unmatched utility that allows design to be the focus. Whether for a 15"/38cm, 18"/45cm, or 24"/60cm opening, these appliances are built-in to stand out. Explore how U-Line is redefining industry standards in seamless integration with The Seamless Collection.

Counter Intelligence

Formica’s 2026 Stone Surface Collection.

Kitchens are evolving with innovations that make every inch work harder

delivering large-format slabs that combine beauty and performance,” says Ken Williams, president of Caesarstone Canada. He adds Lioli is grounded in a sense of stimulating richness and deep tactility. “Lioli Sensorial Tech technology is expertly harnessed to craft crackled, fossilized and grained textures, incorporating effects that echo the topography of natural stone.” New colours in the Unearthed Collection build on the company’s Caesarstone Icon material portfolio, a new category of advanced fusion surfaces that are entirely crystalline silica-free. The surfaces are formulated with a patent-pending blend of innovative, responsibly sourced, and approximately 85 percent recycled materials, including high-quality post-industrial recycled glass and other advanced materials. The surfaces are designed for durability and ease of maintenance, with heat, stain, scratch, and impact resistance consistent with Caesarstone products. Since its 2025 debut, Caesarstone Icon has received six awards from leading global design platforms. “With the launch of the Unearthed Collection, we’re continuing to evolve what modern luxury looks and feels like,” says Williams. “Today’s homeowners are seeking materials that Caesarstone Icon Unearthed Collection.

K by LAURIE JONES

itchens across the country are benefiting from expanding styles, quality, and durability across components, creating more functional spaces for cooking, storage, and entertaining. Formica’s 2026 Stone Surface Collection features a sophisticated lineup of five new stone-inspired patterns across its 180fx and Formica Laminate lines. These new surfaces deliver the refined look of natural stone with the trusted durability and performance of Formica laminate. “Designers expect more from their surfaces,” says Gerri Chmiel, senior design manager at Formica Corporation. “They are increasingly seeking designs and materials that look high-end, but they want their investment to last. The 2026 Stone Collection answers that need with sophisticated, stone-inspired designs that balance timeless style with lasting durability.” Drawing from the ongoing appeal of natural marble and quartzite, the 2026 Stone Collection introduces white statement surfaces designed for balance and versatility in residential interiors. Each Kitchens

pattern blends soft movement, dimensional veining, and balanced tonality to create surfaces that feel both classic and modern. Late last year, Caesarstone launched Lioli porcelain by Caesarstone Ltd., developed in collaboration with Lioli Ceramica. “In Canada, designers and architects turn to porcelain surfaces for their versatility across applications. Lioli porcelain by Caesarstone Ltd. brings world-class innovation followed by new collections,

perform beautifully and connect authentically to the world around them. Unearthed reflects that shift. It is grounded in nature, rich in storytelling, and brought to life through our most advanced sustainable innovation to date. With Caesarstone Icon, we’re proud to deliver surfaces that balance design, durability, and environmental responsibility in a way that feels both meaningful and enduring.” Caesarstone Icon represents a significant material innovation for the brand. Free of crystalline S EP T EM B ER 2026

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Buy Where the Builders Buy Specializing in Luxury Appliances for Residential and Commercial Developments Contact: Michael Gnat | 416-635-4835 mgnat@midnorthern.com 45 Red Maple Rd. Richmond Hill, ON Learn more at midnorthern.com

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Häfele’s Integrated Lighting System.

Cornerstone Maxx

silica, it sets a new standard for the surfaces category. This launch marks a significant step in Caesarstone’s commitment to transition its entire product portfolio to crystalline silica-free surfaces within the next year, reinforcing the brand’s role as a catalyst for change in the industry. Late last year, Cosentino also announced the global launch of its new mineral surfaces brand, Éclos, aimed at the kitchen and bathroom countertop market. This marks a milestone in the industry by introducing an entirely new category: “Inlayered Mineral Surface” based on its Inlayr design technology. “Since our founding, we have been committed to leading innovation rather than following trends, just as we did with Silestone, Dekton, and most recently with Hybriq+ technology for Silestone. Éclos involves a new turning point for our industry, an evolution that responds to real market needs and anticipates the future,” says Pilar Cosentino, Cosentino Group CEO. Éclos combines superior physical and mechanical performance, a 3D integrated design, and a crystalline silica-free composition, while also incorporating more than 50 percent recycled materials. Additionally, through Inlayr technology, Éclos offers superior heat resistance that can withstand temperatures up to 220°C, including direct contact with cookware immediately after use, making it an ideal solution for kitchen countertops and other high-performance applications. Montreal-based manufacturer Arborite brings a fresh, modern approach with the Panorama residential collection of stone-inspired high-pressure laminates. They are nonporous, easy-to-clean, and stain-resistant. “The new collection features large repeats, graphic details, and authentic scans of real stones that bring you versatile, striking, and natural options,” says Chanelle Obena, architectural representative, Western Canada. Paying close attention to detail of how these materials actually exist in nature makes this line feel connected to the outside world, and the textures give a real stone experience. Obena says the collection starts with beautiful Quartzite patterns including subtle veining and soft contrast. “The repeat of this entire line is large Kitchens

and true to the natural materials. There is a variety of undertones between warm and cool in the catalogue. This gives you versatility for all applications.”

BRIGHT THINKING As kitchens evolve, lighting is becoming far more than a finishing touch. Häfele Canada’s Integrated Lighting System brings illumination directly into cabinetry, shelving, drawers, and storage areas, helping designers create spaces that are both beautiful and highly functional. “Today’s homeowners expect their kitchens to work harder than ever before,” says Victor Ayoub, marketing director for Häfele Canada. “Integrated lighting improves visibility exactly where it’s needed while enhancing the overall atmosphere of the space. It’s one of those features users appreciate every single day.” Unlike traditional lighting solutions that are added after the fact, Häfele Lighting is designed as a fully integrated system. From task lighting under cabinets to illuminated drawers, pantry interiors, and display shelving, the system helps eliminate dark zones while creating a layered lighting experience throughout the kitchen. BEHIND CLOSED DOORS Cornerstone Maxx, available through Häfele Canada, is designed for high-capacity base cabinet storage, bringing stored items forward with smooth, controlled motion, making deep cabinet spaces significantly more accessible and efficient to use. “Homeowners are looking for ways to keep kitchens clean, uncluttered, and highly functional without compromising on storage capacity,” says Ayoub. “Cornerstone Maxx helps maximize every inch of cabinet space while making access to stored items simple and intuitive.” The Vionaro V8 slim drawer system by Grass Canada Ltd. features a one-piece solid metal drawer side that is 100 percent recyclable. With a thickness of only 8 mm, the German-designed unit offers sustainable efficiency and more space for storage instead of bulky hardware. George Pavlov, senior sales manager at Grass Canada, says to maintain a sleek look and maximize

Vionaro V8 slim drawer system by Grass Canada Ltd.

space in downsized footprints, Grass Canada products offer thinner profiles in both cabinets and drawers, with soft-close mechanics high on the list of must-haves. “While some builders still install regular cabinets, it costs more to bring those products in because they are no longer the standard. Soft-close is.” With a wide range of drawers, slides, hinges, flaps, and interior accessories, Grass Canada can outfit any kitchen with top-of-the-line products that create the success behind the grand designs. Pavlov adds that having quality hardware pays off in the long run, avoiding costly replacements of failed units. “It’s important to install better quality hardware the first time.” The newest offering from Niico Millwork Group reflects on the company’s commitment to craft and innovation. Metallic and pearl options, available in high gloss or low sheen matte, create a versatile range that speaks to contemporary boldness and understated elegance. “The interior cabinet is equally as attractive, with 17 distinct interior finishes including oak, maple, and walnut,” says Praveena Nathan, brand manager. “This is paired with plywood box construction finished in acrylic clear coat, where every cabinet is as beautiful on the outside as it is on the inside.” S EP T EM B ER 2026

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options allow spaces such as kitchens, laundry areas, workspaces, bars, or storage walls to be completely closed off when not in use, creating a minimalist, uninterrupted façade. When opened, the doors retract fully into slim, self‑contained pockets, preserving circulation and maximizing usable space – an essential advantage in modern open‑concept environments. It also features soft-close technology.”

Ruvati’s LedgeFit workstation accessory collection.

Niico uses water-based primers with low or no VOCs and applies acrylic urethane topcoats, a professional-grade finish designed to provide durability and long-term performance while maintaining a refined appearance over time. “For those who believe a kitchen should reflect personal style, Niico Millwork is setting a new standard,” says Nathan.

OPEN AND SHUT The Revego Pocket System by Blum Canada is a breakthrough in flexible space planning, offering a refined way to conceal or reveal entire living zones

with exceptional elegance. Unlike traditional pocket door solutions, Revego is a fully integrated system. The pocket, hardware, and door technology are engineered as a single, cohesive unit. “This ensures precise, smooth motion, long‑term durability, and a clean architectural aesthetic that aligns with contemporary design expectations,” says Lucy Traetto, architect and designer consultant, Ontario. Traetto explains Revego is available in two configurations: Revego uno, a single‑door pocket system ideal for compact openings, and Revego duo, a double‑door system designed for wider spans. “Both

PREP TALK Maximizing functionality extends beyond cabinetry and storage solutions. Ruvati’s expanded LedgeFit workstation accessory collection introduces new ways to customize the sink area, including an under-sink organizer designed to store accessories when not in use. Built to integrate with Ruvati’s workstation sinks, the system offers more than 40 interchangeable accessories for prepping, serving, cleaning, and entertaining. “The LedgeFit collection combines versatility with elevated design for a highly personalized kitchen experience,” says Wendy Cardenas, product development manager. “Its cross-compatibility means each accessory works across all Ruvati workstation sink models, allowing existing sinks to adapt as new accessories are introduced.” Ruvati also offers a range of workstation cutting boards, including butcher block styles. Measuring 17 by 16 inches and 2 inches thick, these hardwood boards feature end-grain construction for a durable cutting surface and a distinctive checkered finish. A

Redefining

Kitchens

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ARCHITECTURE & ENGINEERING • CONSTRUCTION • INTERIOR DESIGN • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

February 10 & 11, 2027

Dare to Accelerate Change BUILDEX Vancouver is the largest forum in Western Canada connecting the holistic building industry, uniting tradition and innovation to shape the spaces of tomorrow. It brings together talent from across industry to interact, learn and discover the newest innovations from a market in constant transformation.

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WATT’S UP Lighting systems are becoming a more central element in how spaces are designed and experienced by LAURIE JONES

The refined architectural form of 360 Solar.

F PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY LANDSCAPE FORMS

rom an ambient glow to full floodlights and energy-saving options for residential and commercial structures, lighting systems are often the top consideration in builds of any size. Research shows workers in well-lit offices report up to 68 percent higher morale, and that’s no accident. The team at We Light, a specialty lighting design division of MCW, has long understood that light shapes spaces and the people within them. “Layering light strategically can transform a space from dull and lifeless to captivating and inviting,” says Paul Boken, principal advisor. “By artfully combining ambient, accent, and task lighting, designers can breathe life into a room, making it visually engaging and comfortable for various activities.” That human impact extends beyond the office walls. “Lighting has become part of workplace culture,” says Ruchika Kaushal, lighting manager at We Light. “With so much of our day spent on camera, the way light falls on your face shapes how you’re perceived. Your confidence, your presence. In person, you control that. Virtually, the light does it for you.”

BRIGHT IDEAS Landscape Forms’ 360 Solar reimagines what off-grid lighting can look and perform like across a wide range of outdoor environments, from urban infrastructure and campuses to waterfronts, parks, and remote locations. Developed in collaboration with Soluxio, the system combines advanced solar technology with a refined architectural form that integrates seamlessly into diverse settings. “At the core of the design is a cylindrical wrap-around solar array that replaces the angled panels typically associated with solar infrastructure,” says Jordan Agustin, president of lighting. “Highly efficient solar cells are fused to a tempered glass sleeve surrounding the pole, allowing the luminaire to capture sunlight from multiple angles throughout the day while maintaining a clean, Lighting

360 Solar features a cylindrical wrap-around solar array.

minimal aesthetic.” Agustin adds that the vertical configuration also improves resilience by reducing the accumulation of snow, dust, and debris while offering increased resistance to wind and harsh environmental conditions. 360 Solar incorporates autonomous edge-computing technology to continuously optimize energy performance in response to real-time environmental conditions. Its self-learning system manages energy usage automatically without the need for external controls or manual adjustment, simplifying specification and successful installation in-situ. BL Innovative Lighting offers two unique products to bring upscale designs to indoor and outdoor living. For users who enjoy the relaxing spa environment, the BL Neonview series features a premium collection of direct-view, linear LED lighting systems designed for the most demanding wellness environments. With a marine-grade IP68 rating for long-term reliability, the BL Neonview Sauna creates uninterrupted lines of light, allowing for superior humidity tolerance, and is fully dimmable and heat-resistant up to 95°C. This system can be incorporated into everything from private homes to health clubs, or the ultimate in luxury spa indulgence. S EP T EM B ER 2026

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PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY BL INNOVATIVE LIGHTING

One way to create ambiance along with well-lit counterspace is to install under-cabinet or under-shelf lighting. This helps eliminate shadows thrown by overhead lights, creating diffused, uniform light. From a style-focused point, and again, for safety, lighting the inside of cabinets and drawers may ensure what’s inside can always be seen. Motion sensors are available to turn the light on when a door or drawer is opened, and off when it is closed. The third consideration is ambient lighting that creates a warm, relaxing atmosphere. Recessed puck lights, especially with a dimmer switch, provide glare-free, balanced illumination throughout the rooms.

BL Neonview Sauna, heat-resistant up to 95°C.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY RICHELIEU HARDWARE

For outdoor lighting design, the LNR9060S is a recessed, walk-over linear luminaire designed for robust and safe lighting in floors, ground, and walls. Built to withstand heavy loads and harsh environments, it features a flushrecessed, treatable, non-slip silicone lens that delivers glare-free, uniform illumination with excellent durability. This product was engineered for safety, durability, and clean, recessed lines of light that can be incorporated into designs for gardens and landscaped zones, building entrances, walkways and ramps, or commercial facilities. A-Light, represented in B.C. by Symmetry Lighting, has added a new member to its Angle family with the Angle Mini fixture, which provides indirect illumination from a small square form factor and is intended for projects where light is required but integration space is limited. The luminaire delivers up to 4,000 lumens and features regular throw and short throw indirect distributions. Mounting configurations include single pendant, dual pendant, wall stem, and column mount, matching the needs of varied architectural surfaces. Common applications include hotel canopies, school exteriors, airport columns, mall entrances, and retail perimeters. Angle Mini is available in white, titanium, or black standard finishes, but is also available with custom finish options. Like all Angle luminaires, the Angle Mini fixture is suitable for wet locations. Each luminaire features a natatoriumrated finish on the body to ensure longevity in harsh environments. The fixtures are enabled with the nLight network control system to manage lighting throughout indoor or outdoor spaces, helping to reduce energy costs and improve occupant comfort with dim-to-warm and white tuning. The innovation team at Richelieu Hardware knows that whether for the kitchen, bathroom, closet, bedroom, or home office, the more layers of lighting incorporated into a space, the more functional and visually interesting it tends to be. Specifically, task lighting is important, especially in the kitchen for accuracy, and sometimes safety, so they say a good rule of thumb is to install a little more lighting than may be deemed necessary.

Functional and visually interesting task lighting for kitchen spaces.

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S EP T EM B ER 2026

A STUDY IN LIGHT In Victoria, B.C., the historic Congregation Emanu-El presented a unique opportunity for Mac’s II Agencies to craft a lighting experience that enhances worship while respecting the architectural heritage of the space. “True to our ‘Design, Supply, Support’ approach, we led the project from design concept and specification, through co-ordination and controls commissioning, delivering a vision that was both dynamic and precise,” says Chris Brams, principal. Brams says the client sought a worship space that could adapt throughout the day, offering flexibility for religious services, teaching, and special events. Special attention was given to the podium, where worship leaders required bright, shadow-free illumination without disrupting the ambience of the surrounding sanctuary.

Congregation Emanu-El, Victoria, B.C. PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRETT HITCHINS/COURTESY MAC’S II AGENCIES

“To achieve this, we integrated BL Flexform luminaires within the alcoves of the sculpted ceiling,” he says. “These uplights accentuate the curvaceous architecture, creating a delicate play of light and shadow while allowing the historic stained-glass skylights to remain the focal point. Subtle spotlights, strategically positioned along the ceiling ledge, were carefully aimed to provide brighter, shadow-free illumination at the podium, enhancing the worship leaders’ presence while complementing the overall design.” The Vancouver team at ThinkL Lighting Studio bridges creativity and engineering for its clients, helping them navigate the landscape of the lighting world. One example of this innovative approach is King Taps Willowbrook in Langley, B.C. ThinkL was engaged to establish a distinctive lighting identity, capturing the attention of guests approaching from nearby shopping malls and the highway. Working closely with the interior design team, they developed custom pendant fixtures that serve as both dramatic visual features and primary sources of illumination. Throughout the restaurant, the lighting strategy emphasizes contrast, giving each table the sense of being its own intimate environment, while guiding visitors through the space with thoughtfully lit artwork and illuminated architectural details. In a completely different environment, but with the same thoughtful design philosophy, ThinkL delivered the lighting design for the Microsoft office in Vancouver. At this location, the objective was to integrate the lighting seamlessly into the architecture, minimizing glare and softly highlighting forms with gentle light. Indirect illumination adds depth to the space, improves visual comfort, and contributes to energy performance, exceeding standards. Smaller Lighting

Adaptable. Intelligent. Elevated. 360 Solar redefines off-grid lighting with a sculptural cylindrical form and autonomous intelligence, adapting to its environment. Designed in collaboration with Soluxio Lighting Landscape Forms | A Modern Craft Manufacturer

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY THINKL LIGHTING STUDIO

meeting spaces feature tailored lighting solutions designed to support specific functions. The wellness room features a large backlit ceiling that creates a tranquil, soothing atmosphere. Nemetz (S/A) & Associates Ltd. served as the lighting designers and electrical engineers for sections of the massive Oakridge Park redevelopment (formerly Oakridge Centre) in Vancouver. Joy Mescallado, principal, lighting at Nemetz, explains the lighting design began with a concept of what they would like to see and experience, understanding the spatial functions and user needs, while overall enhancing the architecture and elevating the interiors and landscape.

King Taps Willowbrook, Langley, B.C.

“Strategies were developed to create lighting layers and set the mood, one of which is by integrating controls into the design,” Mescallado says. “This allows specific settings for decorative and accent lighting to highlight Oakridge Park features separate from the overall ambience.” Lighting in mall runs creates a welcome atmosphere of cleanliness and quiet, intended to guide general foot traffic and visually direct shoppers to lit storefronts. Cove lights run above the storefronts and benches are illuminated underneath for layered lighting. Oakridge Park has a running track, illuminated with light poles, that encourages either a leisurely or brisk walk, a jog, or a run, even during after hours following a busy day. Mulvey & Banani has developed a reputation across Canada for unique project designs, including the Toronto Eaton Centre pedestrian bridge and the Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada. Replacing the 1977 skywalk, the fully glazed Toronto Eaton Centre pedestrian bridge reconnects the Hudson’s Bay building with the Toronto Eaton Centre. With no opportunity to mount fixtures on the glass envelope, all lighting is integrated into the steel box-beam ribs and pathway edges. Three lighting types shape the experience: pathway kicker lights, diffuse side and indirect lighting, and under-structure illumination. Interior brightness is achieved entirely through the diffuse side and underside sources. Custom fixtures, developed with the architect, are embedded in the rib structure with power routed through the beams. Cool white light reflects off frosted interior glass to enhance contrast, while linear LED strips recessed at the tile edges define the walkway. A DMX system controls all static white LEDs, enabling programmed scenes and subtle nighttime animations. Lighting for Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada – the largest indoor facility of its kind in the country – was completely reimagined to create depth, sparkle, colour, and motion for more than 16,000 marine animals. Low ambient levels reduce tank reflections, while colour accents safely guide visitors. The design addresses heat, corrosion, and maintenance challenges, supporting the aquarium’s educational mission and entertainment-focused experience. A

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Freedom Mobile Arch at the PNE, Vancouver, B.C.

Carrying The Load

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY HOULE ELECTRIC

cross Canada, electricity demand is accelerating, reshaping how the built environment is planned and delivered. With consumption projected to double by 2050, pressure on power infrastructure continues to build. In response, electrical and communications systems experts are advancing new approaches through integrated design, closer collaboration with project teams, and earlier involvement in decision making, helping to align building performance, grid capacity, and long-term resilience from the outset. That shift is visible at the project level, says Michael Jackson, national vice-president, mechanical and electrical, property and buildings at WSP in Canada and past president of the Consulting Engineers of Alberta. Jackson explains that Canada’s building sector is experiencing higher loads from heat pumps, electric domestic hot water, process electrification, and electric vehicle charging, which are reshaping service capacity, distribution strategy, equipment co-ordination, and future expansion. “At the same time, utility servicing requirements, available infrastructure, and code adoption still vary across the country, making regional context critical. The question on many projects is no longer whether electrification is possible, but whether it can be delivered reliably, be constructed effectively, and provide enough flexibility to support long-term performance,” says Jackson. As such, the design process is now just as important as the technical design itself, and on complex electrical projects, the biggest gains are often made by aligning owners, utilities, contractors, and consultants early on capacity, constructability, phasing, and procurement risk. “Collaborative delivery supports better outcomes by bringing the right voices together sooner, when Electrical & Communications Systems

Electrical and communications systems enter a new era of building performance by NATALIE BRUCKNER

key decisions still have room to influence cost, schedule, and performance,” says Jackson. “The same applies to procurement. For complex electrical systems, qualifications-based selection remains one of the clearest ways to protect value, because it recognizes that engineering judgment, co-ordination, and delivery experience are essential to reliability, safety, and long-term success. As projects become more power-intensive and less forgiving of late changes, the industry needs to place the same value on process discipline that it places on technical excellence.” Over the past year, Houle has also seen this growing emphasis on early collaboration as clients and owners look to improve cost certainty and project outcomes, while still delivering modern, efficient facilities. By embracing early contractor engagement and collaborative delivery models, the experts at Houle are able to integrate their multidisciplinary expertise and deliver more efficient, well-co-ordinated results. “One area where this approach is especially impactful is lighting design,” says Les Koss, VP, technology at Houle. “As building owners seek practical ways to reduce operating costs and energy consumption, lighting improvements remain one of the most effective strategies. Our in-house lighting team supports both internal project teams and clients throughout the full life cycle, from design and consultation to installation and maintenance, and provides detailed energy-savings and payback analyses to enable informed, data-driven decisions.” A recent example of this is the Freedom Mobile Arch at the PNE in Vancouver. Working with AES Engineering and BL Lighting, Houle designed and installed the lighting controls for the architectural lighting, along with 2.2 kilometres of linear lighting and more than 4,700 fixtures. The system delivers high-performance LED solutions with strong lumen output and precise colour accuracy,

while minimizing power consumption. In parallel, the Houle team delivered electrical distribution, fire alarm systems, and infrastructure for security, data, and AV systems. Now complete, the 10,000-seat amphitheatre is set to become one of Vancouver’s premier performance venues.

STRONGER TOGETHER The increasing reliance on partnerships is shaping how modern electrical systems are delivered. Nightingale Electrical has consistently prioritized these relationships across Greater Vancouver, collaborating with developers and construction partners on diverse residential and commercial projects. Recent work includes collaboration with Solterra Development on Italia, an 11-storey residential tower at Fir Street and West 7th Avenue in Vancouver’s South Granville neighbourhood, which is expected to be completed in 2027. In Richmond, Nightingale is involved in Park Residences II with Urban One Construction, scheduled for completion in 2028. The 15-storey development includes 232 units with a mix of condominiums and townhomes, located near CF Richmond Centre and the Richmond-Brighouse SkyTrain Station, adjacent to Minoru Park and surrounding community amenities. Despite economic uncertainty, the past year has seen project activity pick up across several sectors, with a notable increase in both hotel developments and emerging data centre applications. “We are seeing existing office spaces be retrofitted into hotels, as well as lots of brand new proposed hotels,” says Bezan Irani, associate at Nemetz (S/A) & Associates Ltd. Irani adds, “Some rental residential buildings are being designed to include data centre infrastructure as a secondary mode of revenue generation. These data centres require significantly more electricity than standard residential and commercial developments.” S EP T EM B ER 2026

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Helping to ease pressure on the province’s electricity system, BC Hydro’s newest hydroelectric dam, Site C, which became operational within the past year, adds approximately 1,100 MW to the province’s total supply. However, Irani explains that more needs to be done. One response at the building scale is the adoption of load monitoring systems, which help reduce overall electrical demand when integrating EV charging. These systems monitor building load at the branch circuit, panel, or overall distribution level, allowing EV charging circuits to operate only when sufficient capacity is available. “Utilizing this, more EVs can be added to a building without increasing the peak power required from BC Hydro at any given time. This is especially valuable in retrofit scenarios, where EV charging is being added to houses or buildings that already have a set service size,” he says. “With overall demand seeming to increase as time moves forward, anywhere that we can reduce the power requirement or increase efficiency will be valuable.”

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY SMS ENGINEERING; NEMETZ (S/A) & ASSOCIATES

ON TRACK AtkinsRéalis, whose electrical engineering division specializes in power generation, grid infrastructure, industrial automation, and high-performance building systems, has been involved in major transportation projects of late, including Toronto’s East Harbour Transit Hub, where electrical systems play a central role in integrating power distribution, signalling, and long-term operational resilience. The company also secured a role as part of the Cadence consortium supporting development of Canada’s first high-speed rail network between Québec City and Toronto. The proposed Alto high-speed-rail project would operate at speeds of up to 300 km/h on approximately 1,000 kilometres of dedicated, mainly electrified track, linking communities along the Toronto to Québec City corridor. “As the first high-speed rail link in the country, Canada will join other G7 nations in offering a world-class, convenient, comfortable, and safe option to transport people quickly and efficiently across the country’s busiest travel corridor,” said Ian L. Edwards, president and chief executive officer of AtkinsRéalis, in a press release. “Our experience with some of the world’s most notable high-speed-rail projects positions us well to deliver expertise locally for this project in Canada.” SMARTER SPACES One of the biggest changes MCW Consultants has seen is in educational facilities and the shift from viewing communication systems as standalone infrastructure to treating them as part of an integrated learning ecosystem. Historically, systems such as audiovisual technology, public address systems, access control, digital displays, and environmental controls were designed and operated independently. Today, educational institutions are increasingly looking at how these systems work together to support learning, safety, flexibility, and long-term adaptability. “This shift is being driven by several factors,” says Gus Paiva, principal, MCW Consultants. “Schools are accommodating a wider range of learning styles, supporting more collaborative and multi-purpose spaces, and integrating technology more deeply into everyday teaching. At the same time, facilities need to remain adaptable as educational models, enrolment patterns, and technology continue to evolve.” Electrical & Communications Systems

Solar inverter installation at the Windigo Island Administration Building.

Information, communication, and automation technology (ICAT) systems are central to this change. Rather than focusing solely on connectivity, they help create environments where students can clearly see, hear, engage, and participate regardless of space configuration or teaching approach. Classroom technology, sound reinforcement, digital displays, environmental controls, and communication systems increasingly work together to support both learning outcomes and operational efficiency. “Safety remains an important benefit of integrated systems. By bringing together audio alerts, video surveillance, access control, environmental monitoring, and emergency communications, institutions can improve situational awareness and co-ordinate responses more effectively. However, the value of integration extends beyond emergency preparedness. These systems also support day-today operations, space utilization, occupant comfort, and future flexibility,” says Paiva. As educational facilities continue to evolve, the focus is shifting from individual technologies to creating adaptable environments that can respond to changing needs. “The most effective solutions are those that support learning today while providing the flexibility to accommodate whatever comes next,” adds Paiva. SMS Engineering has long been delivering innovative electrical solutions for its clients, and a key example of this is the transformation of a former school into the Windigo Island Administration Building. The project required the design of modern building systems for an off-grid, remote location with year-round access challenges. SMS provided full mechanical and electrical engineering services tailored to the specific needs of Animakee Wa Zhing 37 First Nation. The design achieves net-zero carbon performance through a combination of a lake-loop geothermal energy system and a 75 kW rooftop solar array. The geothermal system provides reliable heating and cooling, while solar generation offsets daily electrical loads. To manage power distribution, a rotary phase converter was incorporated, allowing standard three-phase equipment to operate in a single-phase environment. Energy efficiency was a central design consideration throughout. Advanced controls and insulation strategies were used to reduce demand, limit maintenance requirements, and extend system life, supporting long-term resilience in a location accessible only by water or winter roads. The result is a high-performance facility that supports health and social services while advancing long-term energy self-sufficiency for the community.

POWERING CARE One of the most significant shifts that Quasar Consulting Group is seeing across institutional

Load monitoring systems reduce overall electrical demand when integrating EV charging.

projects, particularly hospitals, is the move toward medium-voltage distribution, operating between 4,160 V and 13.8 kV, for internal building power. Traditionally, buildings ran solely on 600 V lowvoltage systems, but the scale and power demand of today’s healthcare facilities are making that approach increasingly difficult to justify. “A project’s requirements won’t explicitly call for medium voltage, but when you work through the load profile and redundancy requirements, the math stops working at 600 V,” explains David Cioppa, sector lead. Stepping up to medium-voltage brings the amperage down and reduces equipment footprint and the amount of material needed. Another shift is from generator-backed power to whole-building backup, where all systems are brought online in stages. “Ice storms and grid instability are real concerns, and there’s a genuine desire from facility operators to know their building is protected. When staff and patients know the whole facility is covered, there’s a level of confidence and safety that matters,” says Cioppa. When it comes to tools, Revizto for model coordination and clash detection has transformed how multidisciplinary teams work together. Combining models through a shared platform means conflicts between architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical systems are caught on screen, not on site. “Our work on the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority redevelopment project and Peel Memorial Hospital Phase 2 reflects exactly where the industry is heading: large-scale healthcare facilities that require medium-voltage distribution, full-building generator backup, and built-in capacity for EV charging and future renewable energy integration. These are projects where electrical design is central to how the building performs,” says Cioppa.

DRIVING CHANGE EV charging continues to be a hot topic in the world of electrical, and OZZ Electric’s partnership with Trilliant, a provider of advanced metering infrastructure and smart grid solutions, has resulted in the deployment of a commercial-grade electric vehicle charging energy management system. The initiative builds on an existing sub-metering partnership between the two companies, first established in 2022, and is intended to support better management of EV charging demand in multi-residential buildings. “Our long-standing relationship with Trilliant has always supported best practices in the pursuit of energy management and efficiency,” said David Recchia, executive vice president, Western Canada and the U.S., OZZ Electric. “The Trilliant solution is utility-grade and accurate, and will provide the much-needed insights to building managers and property owners regarding EV infrastructure.” A S EP T EM B ER 2026

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La Maison de la Petite-Ferme, Cap-Tourmente, QC

The Comeback Kid Masonry today combines centuries of craftsmanship with next-generation possibilities

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIEN PERRON-GAGNÉ/COURTESY ATWILL-MORIN; ARRISCRAFT

By ROBIN BRUNET

asonry’s capabilities in so many types of construction mean one thing, as far as designers are concerned: a steady stream of new products, colours, and textures, as well as distinctive achievements in the realms of new construction and renovation. Quebec-based Atwill-Morin’s expertise in restoring historic buildings was recently recognized again when it received the 2026 Heritage Award from Côte-de-Beaupré in the Conservation and Preservation – Institutional Project category for its masonry restoration work on the Maison de la Petite-Ferme. Located in the Cap Tourmente National Wildlife Area, the Maison de la PetiteFerme received heritage designation in 1992, and repair of the structure was prioritized shortly afterwards, with cracks and deformations in its exterior solid masonry walls Elevation Norman Limestone Thin Brick. deemed a risk to the physical integrity and heritage value of the building. Atwill-Morin’s work involved a full repair of the exterior envelope, requiring the exclusive use of period-appropriate materials and techniques, including limewash, wood, and natural stone, in order to preserve the building’s authenticity. The company also undertook rigorous planning to minimize the impact of work on migratory bird habitat on site. In addition to the sheer range of expertise exhibited by the third-generation family-owned Atwill-Morin team, the company maintains its status as a premier restorer through constant self-improvement. One example is its use of a brick recycling machine developed by Brique Recyc that cleans off mortar and recovers used bricks directly on-site. Masonry

Another recent example is its strategic acquisition of SoluBéton, a Montrealbased company specializing in concrete waterproofing, repair, and injection. This acquisition strengthens Atwill-Morin’s service offering and positions the company to better meet the growing demand in the infrastructure sector in Quebec and Ontario. Headquartered in Cambridge, Ontario, Arriscraft’s competitive advantage is that it manufactures stone for commercial and residential projects using a unique process that eliminates the need for cementitious or artificial binders. The company pioneered this environmentally benign technology in the 1950s, and today the Arriscraft calcium silicate masonry units are made by combining sand and lime, then mineral oxides are added for colour. This material is pressed into units, then autoclave cured to create a variety of building stone and brick products that look and perform like quarried stone. Arriscraft’s manufacturing process lends itself well to the steady provision of new products, and new for 2026 is Bloomington, a colour intended to impart timeless sophistication to both residential and commercial designs. Bloomington invokes the tone and appearance of Midwestern limestone with subtle colour variations from warm to light and a fine-grained texture. The new colour gives developers the opportunity to incorporate the look of natural limestone with the consistency and installation benefits of a manufactured stone, and the Bloomington launch comes in five products: Architectural Linear Series Brick, Laurier, Shadow Stone, Edge Rock, and Urban Ledgestone. Also new for 2026 is the Norman size, the newest addition to Arriscraft’s Elevation Thin Brick series. Designed for modern applications, it features a uniform, easy-to-install S EP T EM B ER 2026

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PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY MUTUAL MATERIALS; CLIFFORD GROUP

length and comes in two thicknesses – ¾-inch and 1 3/8-inch. These thicknesses can be installed independently or mixed to create depth variation and shadows (corner units are also available). Additionally, Arriscraft has expanded its popular Fresco building stone offering to include all Citadel (Cambridge, Ontario) colours. Arriscraft now offers Fresco in nine standard colours, with custom orders and blends available. Fresco’s updated colour range includes diverse options from bright Moonstone and earthy French Country to moody Driftwood. As for the resiliency of Arriscraft products, the company in March of this year visited the Northland Pointe long-term facility just steps from Lake Erie. Built in 2003, the facility’s exterior siding had been heavily damaged by incessant winds, damp weather, and southern exposure. Arriscraft’s thin Stack stone, in a generous eight-foot skirt around the entire complex, was part of a new exterior completed in 2015. Arriscraft reports that “More than a decade after installation, we visited the site and found our Stack stone in pristine condition. For the Canadian markets specifically, this is an important hallmark and a testament to the cold weather performance of our thin stone. “Well before ANSI A118.4 and its requirement for polymer-fortified mortar, we were advocating for it and using it. We knew more than 20 years ago that Type S mortars can’t perform as well given their rigidity and poor bonding characteristics. We have a broad range of thin stone products and versatile installation systems, including our Proguard DP insulated concrete board system which meets current energy code requirements.” Keeping up with design trends is a constant priority among masonry manufacturers and providers, including Mutual Materials, which in Canada supplies product for residential and commercial applications throughout B.C. and Vancouver Island (as well as in Alberta and even Ontario). Mutual Materials supplies masonry and hardscape products throughout the Pacific Northwest, and in Canada, Vito Lore, the company’s Canadian sales manager, reports that “trends in the masonry sector continue to be consistent in that black and white remains a desired design contrast in the residential and commercial sectors. “Adhering to that trend, we recently introduced our Black Lake and Baker White bricks, and most recently, Black Lake was used in the façade design of the new Burnaby Lake Recreation Centre currently under construction. That said, we’re also noticing a return to tradition with designers specifying earth tones for their projects.” As for the state of the masonry market in Western Canada, Lore says, “Portions of the residential market have slowed, but we’re busy with multi-family residential projects all over B.C. and Vancouver Island.” In a similar spirit of updating its portfolio and processes to benefit Baker White bricks. designers and end users, The Belden Brick Company of Ohio recently invested in a roller hearth kiln, which offers a faster and more efficient method for producing glazed bricks. Previously, the company had never sold more than one million glazed bricks in a year, but with this new kiln, production capacity can increase to up to five million bricks annually. Belden has indicated that it will ramp up production as orders are received. Another Belden innovation is an upgraded dry decorating line that will soon include the first digital brick printers in the U.S. This technological update elevates Belden’s service capabilities by allowing virtually any image to be printed on brick, including detailed patterns, various colours, and graphics, as well as discontinued brick patterns. The ability to replicate these discontinued patterns will enable clients to match bricks on existing buildings with ease. As always, Belden’s role in demonstrating outstanding architectural design, craftsmanship, and innovative use of brick was reflected by the company earlier this year earning six honours in the 2025 Brick in Architecture Awards, one was Best in Class Winner for paving and landscaping, for the Bridge District hardscape project in Washington, DC, widely regarded as a benchmark for contemporary streetscape design using clay brick pavers in the nation’s capital. Another award was for the Arlo hotel in Washington, DC, a historic renovation project that highlighted brick’s unique ability to bridge past and present.

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S EP T EM B ER 2026

Careful material selection and expert craftsmanship helped preserve the building’s character while supporting modern performance requirements. Masonry, cladding, and historical restoration are the hallmarks of Clifford Group, which is widely recognized as the leader in building restoration and conservation. Its portfolio includes everything from Toronto’s Old City Hall and the Dufferin County Courthouse to St. Michael’s Cathedral Basilica and the University of Toronto Convocation Hall. One of Clifford’s most recent undertakings was 90-104 Queen Street East in Toronto’s historic commercial corridor, including the Richard Bigley Building. The project involved comprehensive façade retention and heritage conservation measures, including the retention of the existing façades (which dated back to the late 19th century) while new construction proceeded behind. Brick, stone, and leaded glass were carefully salvaged for reuse, with brickwork selectively catalogued, dismantled, and stored for incorporation into the new build. Existing storefronts, including stained glass assemblies, were catalogued, removed, and stored, with stained glass restored and new panels recreated to match the historic profiles. The existing wood storefront was salvaged and refurbished, and new wood storefront windows were supplied and installed with a steel backup structure to support the retained façade. A prominent three-storey bay window was completely dismantled and restored with an incorporated structural steel upgrade. The scope of work also included the supply and installation of a new granite base, salvaged stone, and new rockface limestone, along with LCC flashing and bird protection systems. Selective mortar joint cut-out and repointing were undertaken where required, as well as the creation of new masonry openings and infill of existing openings to suit the revised design. Cleaning operations addressed soiling, efflorescence, algae, ivy overgrowth, and graffiti to restore the masonry surfaces. Additionally, the supply and installation of a façade retention system with lateral steel strapping ensured structural stability throughout construction. Finally, Polycor paver stone, wall tiles, cladding, raw blocks, and many other products are all derived from natural stone. In fact, Polycor has full control over Richard Bigley Building, Toronto, ON

the paver supply chain process from quarry to delivery, with quarries throughout Canada, including Quebec. That province’s Caledonia Quarry supplied product for National Bank Place in Montreal’s financial district. This $2.2 million landscape project demonstrated the design potential of coordinated granite palettes and integrated Caledonia granite for primary paving, Titanium Pearl for secondary surfaces, Kodiak Brown for accent pavers and defining curbs, Bethel White for custom seating blocks, and Stanstead Grey for steps and pavers on the building’s secondary elevation. All pavers use a 4-by-4-inch format, providing a human scale appropriate for pedestrian spaces while accommodating complex geometries across both ground-level and rooftop conditions. The Caledonia granite in particular was selected not only for a visual richness that avoided an institutional appearance, but also for its proven performance in Montreal’s freeze-thaw climate, making it extremely reliable for a project with multiple installation phases across different elevations. As for Titanium Pearl, this lighter stone created subtle variations across the plaza surfaces while maintaining overall design cohesion. Its silvery character added brightness, particularly valuable for the rooftop terrace where reflected light enhances the user experience. A Masonry

C IT Y O F B U R N A BY: H OTE L B U R N A BY

CITY OF BURNABY TRANSFORMS UNDERUSED SPACE INTO A BOUTIQUE HOTEL How do you build a hotel inside a busy community centre without closing the building around it? That was the challenge behind Hotel Burnaby, a 56-room boutique hotel that recently opened at the City of Burnaby’s Christine Sinclair Community Centre. This project was unique for Burnaby. In 2021, the city purchased the former Fortius Sport & Health facility and converted it into a community centre. In addition to a gym and extensive fitness spaces, it included three floors of basic dorm-style accommodation. Instead of demolishing and rebuilding that space, the city saw an opportunity. In January 2026, Burnaby City Council approved a project to convert the space into an independent hotel to serve sports teams and event participants, as well as business and leisure travellers. “The Burnaby Lake area is a regional destination for sports and tournaments,” says Jimi Yamashita, manager of hospitality guest services for the City of Burnaby. “City Council wants to build on that existing strength and sees this project of creating a boutique hotel catering to sports teams and the general leisure traveller as an important contribution toward that goal.” The idea solves several problems at once. It puts an underused civic asset back to work, adds accommodation beside a major sport and recreation precinct, and creates a new source of revenue. Burnaby expects the mixed guest model to cover direct operating costs and help support the building over time.

The redesign also reached beyond the guest rooms. Select meeting and program rooms were turned into guest lounges, team gathering areas, and shared amenities. These spaces work for athletes and groups while still offering the comfort and character expected in a boutique hotel. Yamashita also summarized a key construction challenge: “Build a hotel without stopping the everyday operations of the community centre.” Programs continued while construction moved ahead nearby. That required careful planning for deliveries, public access, noise, dust, and temporary shutdowns. Emergency exits and building services had to remain safe and available throughout the work. The hotel’s technology backbone added another layer of complexity. New guest Wi-Fi, secure staff networks, and hotel management systems were installed within an occupied civic building. Each step had to be timed so existing programs and services stayed online. “The work involved extensive co-ordination among a variety of city departments and contractors including facilities, construction, electrical, IT, fire, building, security, hospitality, and community centre operations,” says Kevin Sarmiento, project lead at the city who also worked on the project. “Each component had to be integrated while preserving safe public circulation, emergency egress, and access to ongoing programs.” The result is a blend of civic infrastructure and hospitality design. The hotel gains a clear identity from its connection to sport and community, while the precinct gains a more complete set of services for tournaments and events.

But the existing rooms were only a starting point. “While the existing guest rooms gave us the bones of the project, they did not give us a hotel,” Yamashita says.

The hotel opened in May and is already seeing strong pickup in bookings. During a pilot period, the City will assess the hotel’s finances, operations, and guest experience. It will also measure whether the project continues to support Burnaby’s sport and community sectors.

The project retained the room layouts, corridors, elevators, and major building systems. This limited structural work, waste, and the cost of demolition. At the same time, the interior needed a major technical upgrade. Electrical and low-voltage systems, heating and cooling, fire and life-safety systems, and sound control were all improved to meet current hotel standards.

Hotel Burnaby shows that adaptive reuse is not simply about preserving an old space. It means deciding what is worth keeping, upgrading what no longer works, and creating a new place that feels intentional. In this case, the project is turning a set of underused rooms into a destination that delivers on important City of Burnaby goals.

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LOCATION 777 Pacific Boulevard, Vancouver, B.C. OWNER/DEVELOPER BC Pavilion Corporation (PavCo) DESIGN ARCHITECT Populous ARCHITECT OF RECORD Architecture49 PROJECT MANAGER CIA Consulting / Colliers Project Leaders GENERAL CONTRACTOR ETRO Construction STRUCTURAL/MECHANICAL/ ELECTRICAL/LIGHTING/ENERGY MODELLING CONSULTANT WSP TRANSPORTATION MOBILITY PLAN Arup FIELD OF PLAY PROJECT MANAGER R.F. Binnie & Associates MECHANICAL CONTRACTORS Tino Mechanical / VanMech Mechanical / Division 15 Mechanical ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Centre Electric + Technology LIGHTING CONTRACTOR Houle TOTAL SIZE 55,000 square feet TOTAL COST $109 million

BC PLACE FIFA RENOVATION by NATALIE BRUCKNER

PHOTOGRAPHY + RENDERING COURTESY BC PAVILION CORPORATION (PAVCO)

s Spain lifted the FIFA World Cup trophy on July 19, another significant milestone was being celebrated thousands of kilometres away in Vancouver, B.C. After years of planning, negotiations, design, and construction, BC Place had completed one of the most significant transformations in its history, delivering a venue ready for football’s biggest tournament while creating lasting benefits for the city. One of two Canadian host cities selected among the 16 locations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Vancouver had invested in preparing BC Place for a new era. Ahead of the start of the 48-team tournament, the stadium underwent a major renewal that included accessibility, inclusivity, and technology upgrades. A hybrid grass pitch was installed to meet tournament requirements, complemented by upgrades beyond the field of play that strengthened the team environment through newly renovated player dressing rooms. Building on these enhancements, new hospitality and event spaces elevated the fan experience during the tournament while supporting long-term revenue generation. This evolution was further anchored by the addition of a permanent merchandise store at Terry Fox Plaza. BC Place FIFA Renovation

“Once we were named a host city, which happened in June 2022, we started the process,” explains Chris May, general manager of BC Place. “Fairly quickly after that came the updated stadium requirements from FIFA. They ranged from things that were fairly broad and general to things that were extremely specific.” The team at BC Pavilion Corporation (PavCo)/BC Place conducted a detailed gap analysis to determine what BC Place already had, where improvements were needed, and which investments would deliver long-term value. However, the focus was not simply on meeting FIFA’s standards. For May and his team, the bigger question was how the investment could strengthen BC Place for the next 15-plus years. “We are stewards of public dollars and a public asset,” says May. “We don’t write a blank check, and we don’t just say ‘yes’. FIFA came to the table to discuss solutions with us, and we ended up with a really good relationship with the working-level staff at FIFA and FIFA Canada, working through those challenges together.” Once the gaps were identified and priorities were established, BC PavCo assembled an integrated design and construction team that would deliver

the upgrades. Populous served as the lead design consultant, supported by Architecture49 and WSP Canada, which provided structural, mechanical, electrical, and related engineering services. ETRO Construction completed the hospitality renovations and delivered the construction, while the field of play was designed by R.F. Binnie & Associates and constructed by Wilco Contractors Southwest. While some elements of the stadium renovation were relatively straightforward, the real complexity came from working within a building that has been in service for 43 years. BC Place had already undergone a major transformation following the 2010 Winter Olympics, with a renovation focused primarily on replacing the

original air-supported dome with the largest retractable roof of its kind in the world, and completing seismic upgrades. The latest project was a different undertaking. It meant working throughout an older facility where decades of changes and modifications meant that not every condition could be fully understood before construction began. “There are things you don’t know until you get into the actual construction,” says May. “What’s actually under that floor? It isn’t always what the drawings say.” Those unknowns became part of the daily reality of delivering the project. Donato Battista, project director with ETRO Construction, says the team encountered unforeseen S EP T EM B ER 2026

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PHOTOGRAPHY + RENDERING COURTESY BC PAVILION CORPORATION (PAVCO)

conditions throughout construction, requiring adjustments as work progressed, including significant abatement across multiple areas and careful consideration of structural upgrades within the existing facility. BC Place’s location brought another layer of complexity. The stadium is located in the fabric of downtown Vancouver and therefore had limited space for material storage, deliveries, and construction access.

For ETRO Construction, that meant navigating significant logistical challenges throughout a complex, multiphase project that required the team to remain onsite for almost two years. The challenge was amplified by the fact that the stadium never closed. The renovation work was completed in phases while BC Place continued operating its full event schedule. “We completed the entire renovation project without closing the stadium for

a single day,” says May. Battista adds that working around an active event calendar required a highly collaborative approach, with the team adjusting plans and, in some cases, moving toward a design-build approach for specific elements to keep the work progressing. The design behind the renovation was focused on creating spaces that would support BC Place long after the

that could serve fans, tenants, and event organizers for years to come. The renovation expanded premium hospitality experiences for the stadium’s anchor tenants, the Vancouver Whitecaps FC and the BC Lions, concerts, and other major events, while also creating new and improved multifunctional spaces for smaller events.

FIFA World Cup concluded. Populous with Architecture49 developed a design strategy that would transform previously underused areas of the stadium into flexible hospitality and event spaces

The former storage and office areas at the southeast corner of the stadium became Creekside Terrace, the project’s most significant new hospitality space. The large, open ballroom-like

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VHT Studios

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space features floor-to-ceiling glass walls, balcony access, direct sightlines into the stadium bowl, and expansive views of Southeast False Creek and Science World. At field level, the former food court was completely transformed into the Tunnel Club, a scalable lounge designed to host premium experiences and events. The space is now fully enclosed, climate-controlled, and supported by dividing walls and significant additional washroom capacity, allowing it to operate as a more flexible standalone venue. During the FIFA World Cup, the area also served a key operational role, with the players’ tunnel running through the space. Additional upgrades included the Coastal Lounge, a new premium bar and fan zone, The Summit Suite, an enhanced premium area with private viewing platforms, and comprehensive improvements to player and media facilities. Athlete locker rooms and showers were overhauled, the media broadcast control room was upgraded, and new gender-neutral washrooms were introduced throughout the stadium. For May, some of the most significant improvements were the ones that directly change how people

experience the stadium. “Accessibility is a big one for me,” says May. “We managed to get three new passenger elevators into this building through

these renovations. That was huge.” Beyond the larger-scale upgrades, the project team also placed significant value on the details that shape how

people experience the stadium. For May, one of the most memorable design elements is a small window seat overlooking the city that is located outside one of the new elevators on the second floor. “It’s a little thing, but it’s very cool,” says May. “People think I’m crazy until I walk them up there, and they’re like, ‘Oh, this is actually something you never really notice or think much about until you sit there and look out the window.’” When the doors reopened and BC Place welcomed the world, the team finally had the opportunity to see how years of planning and construction translated into the live experience. For May, the response was incredibly rewarding, but there has been little time to pause and reflect as the stadium has moved straight into its next chapter, with a packed calendar. Looking back on what made the project possible, May points to the many people who helped deliver a complex renovation on an extremely demanding timeline. “It speaks to the strength of the team,” says May. “Our operating teams, our sales teams, and without question, our capital team all played a huge role. The way they managed everything and worked together was incredible.” A

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LOCATION 65 W 100 North, Raymond, Alberta OWNER/DEVELOPER Westwind School Division ARCHITECT Group2 Architecture Interior Design Ltd. DESIGN-BUILD CONTRACTOR Shunda Consulting & Construction Management Ltd. STRUCTURAL CONSULTANT Eng-Spire MECHANICAL CONSULTANT Remedy Engineering ELECTRICAL CONSULTANT WSP TOTAL SIZE 65,767 square feet TOTAL COST $43.9 million

RAYMOND HIGH SCHOOL by ROBIN BRUNET

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY WESTWIND SCHOOL DIVISION

he new Raymond High School in the same-named town of southern Alberta (population 4,600) breaks the norm of secondary school development that is driven primarily by programming, with a few modest architectural flourishes depending on the budget. When the province announced funding for the new school in 2022, it was intended to alleviate congestion (Westwind School Division had no less than 22 modulars spread across three schools at the time, and areas such as gyms and libraries were considered outgrown). “We were informed that our new school was approved to open with a 500-student capacity and a final capacity of 765,” says Westwind School Division secretary-treasurer Peter Wright. While programming was all important, the Westwind team had definite ideas about the school’s identity and how it should be developed. “In Raymond, sports bring everyone together, so the idea was to have the gymnasium in the centre of the school,” Wright says. “There was also interest in having a sunken gym and all gathering and corridor spaces looking down onto it, and the government supported this concept.” Under a design-build delivery method, Group2 Architecture Interior Design Ltd. and Shunda Consulting and Construction Management Ltd. in early 2024 were given a design from Oystryk & Team Architecture that was about 60 percent complete. From there, detailed design and construction documentation was developed, and celebration of sport was fortified as a defining design idea. “The gym and building were arranged so that the basketball court and the turfed Raymond High School

football field line up with one another, separated by a gathering space and a large, glazed wall,” Wright says. Jon Gulayets, project director at Shunda, adds, “The sunken gym is a real showcase in that it is fully glazed on three sides, plus it has a fire separation of fire-rated glazing running right through it, which is unique and allows those in the gym to see through the atrium space and through the school’s north glazing towards the football field.” Other design ideas contributing to the high school’s special appeal included an elevated and cantilevered learning commons space with optimum views of the surrounding field and green space. The school’s gathering space “provides a nice visual flow between the sunken gym, the stairs up into the learning commons, and out to Victoria Park,” Wright says, adding that a black box theatre was developed to connect to a band room, providing extra support for theatrical productions. Construction of Raymond High School, which commenced in the spring of 2024, was as unorthodox as its design. The project required over 320 concrete piles, with a series of them going down to basement level for the gym. “They were installed in three phases,” says Deekyn Brown, project manager at Shunda. “We started with the main level so that we could progress the building above ground. Then we excavated and ran the piles down in the lower level for the gym. After that, we returned to the main floor and installed the piles surrounding the gym.” Gulayets goes on to note that the gym slab and the upper slabs were designed to provide lateral strength, “so ultimately the walls had to be

shored up. All the earthworks at the main level had to be completed, and then the upper slabs had to be poured before the shoring could be removed from those walls. All of that work had to be completed before the building structure could be started, and it required a nimble site team and a lot of co-ordination with our trades.” The actual construction of the school – a mixture of steel frame, concrete block, and metal cladding plus masonry (full height in some areas) – was comparatively quick and included elements such as temperature-sensitive mechanically operating windows and reuse of existing components.

As of July, Raymond High School had been fitted out, and Westwind was preparing to welcome students in the fall. “Westwind has participated in several modernizations over the last 20 years and has often partnered with the same architectural and building professionals,” Wright says. “However, collaborating with OTA, Group2, and Shunda on our new high school showed us just how many outstanding professionals are ready to deliver. Their expertise made the entire process a positive experience, and we feel we’ve collectively delivered a school our students and community can be really proud of.” A S EP T EM B ER 2026

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ACADEMIC WOOD TOWER – UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO by NATALIE BRUCKNER

RENDERINGS COURTESY POMERLEAU CONSTRUCTION

n the University of Toronto’s St. George Campus, a new academic tower is reshaping perceptions of timber construction at height. Rising above the Goldring Centre for High Performance Sport, the Academic Wood Tower brings mass timber into a complex institutional setting, combining exposed wood construction with the structural demands of a 14-storey hybrid building. Designed by Patkau Architects in collaboration with MJMA Architecture & Design and constructed by Pomerleau, the Academic Wood Tower is Canada’s tallest academic mass timber building. Built atop the Goldring Centre for High Performance Sport, the tower is a carefully integrated addition to the St. George campus, where the challenges of building above an existing facility shaped every stage of its design and construction. The tower’s development began with a feasibility study exploring whether mass timber could support a largescale academic building while meeting the structural, technical, and operational demands of a high-rise project. At the University’s request, Patkau Academic Wood Tower – University Of Toronto

Architects undertook a feasibility study in 2016 to explore the possibilities. The study examined a range of timber wall and floor systems, including glulam panels and hybrid concrete-timber approaches, ultimately confirming the viability of an engineered timber structure at this scale. The decision to introduce a new tower above an existing facility required careful co-ordination from the beginning. The Goldring Centre, completed in 2014, had been designed with future expansion in mind, including a foundation capable of supporting additional height and loading. However, constructing the Academic Wood Tower within the existing campus environment presented a unique set of challenges. The Centre needed to remain operational throughout construction, while the limited staging space required precise planning of deliveries, materials, and installation. To address these constraints, the project relied on prefabricated and panelized construction methods supported by just-in-time delivery and carefully sequenced installation. Timber elements were

manufactured off site to precise dimensions and delivered in order for assembly, reducing on-site cutting and minimizing disruption to surrounding campus activities. The construction strategy was supported by one of the tallest freestanding tower cranes on the continent. The structural system is formed by glulam columns, beams, and

perimeter bracing, which create the building’s gravity-load framework. All mass timber elements were supplied by Western Archrib in Edmonton, where the glulam components were fabricated before being transported to Ontario. The glulam members range in size from 315-by380 mm to 1260-by-520 mm, while 175 mm thick glulam floor slabs provide long clear spans and contribute inherent two-hour fire resistance. A steel core provides lateral stability while accommodating stairs, elevators, and service shafts, creating a hybrid structural system that combines the efficiency of timber construction with the performance requirements of a tall building. Rather than concealing the timber structure, the design makes it a visible part of the building’s architectural identity. Along the north façade, a glazed elevation reveals the structural grid from the street, making the construction approach legible from the exterior. Inside, exposed timber ceilings in teaching and circulation spaces reduce the need for additional finishes while allowing mechanical and electrical systems to be integrated within the structural depth. The building’s envelope was designed to respond to its four distinct solar orientations, balancing daylight, energy performance, and occupant comfort. The exposed timber structure works alongside a high-performance envelope strategy, demonstrating how mass timber can support both architectural expression and the technical requirements of a contemporary academic building.

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beams connected to the permanent steel core to temporarily support the timber cantilever during construction until the final load path was achieved. The cantilever was installed with a positive camber, allowing it to gradually deflect into its intended final position as additional loads were introduced above. Throughout construction, the structure was monitored through regular surveying to confirm that the cantilever was performing as designed. Once the permanent structure stabilized, the temporary supports were removed, revealing the final cantilevered form.

RENDERING COURTESY POMERLEAU CONSTRUCTION

The project’s architectural ambitions also introduced complex structural challenges. One of the most technically demanding elements is the seven-metre cantilever at the fifth level, which extends beyond the footprint of the Goldring Centre below. A conventional approach using a bridgelike structure supported back to grade was not feasible, as it would have interfered with the existing fire exits. Working closely with Blackwell, the engineer of record, Pomerleau developed a temporary shoring solution that tied the cantilever back into the permanent structure. Large steel

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Beyond structural movement, moisture management was a critical consideration throughout construction. Timber components respond to changing environmental conditions, which can affect dimensional stability and connection tolerances. IoT sensors were embedded in selected elements to monitor moisture levels, allowing the project team to track conditions and respond if thresholds were exceeded. Spacer plates were also introduced for shipments to help maintain precise fitup during installation. Long-term movement of the timber structure was incorporated into the design as well. As the wood equilibrates with interior conditions, minor dimensional changes can accumulate across multiple storeys. Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems were detailed with flexible connections and allowances for movement to maintain performance over the life of the building. The building has been designed to meet high energy performance standards, aligning with LEED Gold principles. Mechanical systems support efficient operation, while passive strategies are incorporated where possible to reduce energy demand. While

the project is not pursuing formal certification, its overall approach reflects many of the strategies associated with high-performance buildings. Targeted for completion in 2027, the Academic Wood Tower represents an important step in the continued exploration of tall timber construction in dense urban environments, demonstrating how engineered wood, hybrid structural systems, and careful construction planning can come together in a complex academic setting. A

LOCATION 100 Devonshire Place, Toronto, Ontario OWNER/DEVELOPER University of Toronto ARCHITECTS Patkau Architects / MJMA Architecture & Design GENERAL CONTRACTOR Pomerleau STRUCTURAL CONSULTANT Blackwell Structural Engineers MECHANICAL/ELECTRICAL/ AUDIO VISUAL/LIGHTING CONSULTANT Smith + Andersen TOTAL SIZE 126,400 square feet TOTAL COST $130 million

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BETHESDA REGIONAL HEALTH CENTRE

LOCATION 316 Henry Street, Steinbach, Manitoba OWNER/DEVELOPER Southern Health-Santé Sud / Shared Health, Department Led Capital Projects ARCHITECT LM Architectural Group | Environmental Space Planning (LM ESP) GENERAL CONTRACTOR Penn-co Construction Canada Ltd. STRUCTURAL CONSULTANT Lavergne Draward & Associates MECHANICAL/ELECTRICAL CONSULTANT SMS Engineering LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT Scatliff + Miller + Murray TOTAL SIZE 59,000 square feet TOTAL COST $64 million

by ROBIN BRUNET

RENDERING + PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY LM ARCHITECTURAL GROUP

he phased upgrade of the Bethesda Regional Health Centre in Steinbach, Manitoba, is another example of a rural health care facility in that province in need of expansion due to population growth, and in this case, careful planning combined with work crews who had a personal stake in the facility’s improvement also resulted in a good degree of future-proofing. The main part of the existing Bethesda Regional Health Centre opened in 1963. “Given the population growth in the region and outdated 1960s health care components, Bethesda’s OR suites required replacement, and patient beds needed to be added, along with a new renal dialysis unit,” says Kyle MacNair, implementation lead for Southern Health-Santé Sud. Indeed, Southern Health-Santé Sud is the fastest-growing health region in Manitoba with 212,000 people, up by 14,000 in the past five years. As such, Bethesda became part of an overall healthcare infrastructure renewal plan for rural Manitoba. In Southern HealthSanté Sud, this plan also included an expansion to Boundary Trails Health Centre and a new hospital in Portage la Prairie. All three projects were overseen by Shared Health’s Department Led Capital Projects (DLCP), which delivers major capital healthcare projects on behalf of Regional Health Authorities and the Province of Manitoba. DLCP is responsible for leading and managing all facets of overall project delivery from approval through commissioning and project turnover. Bethesda Regional Health Centre

as well as more space to support physicians and resident services. However, MacNair says that while other hospital upgrades allowed for a certain degree of architectural expression, “this project was a more cut-and-dried programming project. For example, the old hospital didn’t have loading docks, and goods had to be rolled down a ramp. The architects fixed that deficiency with ground-floor docks and the installation of a cargo elevator. The original hospital also didn’t have a morgue, so that deficiency was LM Architectural Group Environmental Space Planning (LM ESP) was retained to preside over the two-phase project, the first of which saw Kidney Health Manitoba reconfiguring the Community Health Services building adjacent to the hospital to add the first renal dialysis unit in Steinbach (it opened in 2023). Phase two consisted of a 59,000square-foot hospital expansion consisting of a two-level addition to the original split-level facility. The design focused on naturally integrating the addition into the existing facility by using complementary materials and finishes, and prioritizing smooth circulation where the facility ties into the existing three levels of the hospital. Programming included a new surgery unit with three operating theatres, a pre-operative consult room, 15 private inpatient beds (seven of the inpatient rooms have palliative care enhancements to improve the comfort

of patients receiving end-of-life care), laboratory, spiritual room, physician on-call rooms, staff building entry, and a shipping/receiving dock. LM ESP created a reception and waiting area for patients and families,

corrected. The importance of these additions can’t be overstated.” Still, aesthetics played an important role: LM ESP ensured that the central care desk was warm and inviting and offered staff clear sightlines to S EP T EM B ER 2026

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treatment bays. Natural wood accents, uplifting teal tones, and direct daylight were used to create a welcoming environment. Additionally, 4,000 square feet of shell space was designated for future expansion, rendering Bethesda as future-proof as possible. Penn-co Construction Canada Ltd. broke ground on the site (an old

parking lot behind the existing hospital) in April of 2023. “It was a tight site, but we planned the work schedule carefully with the owner group, and then made every effort to reach the designated completion date, motivated by the fact that our crew was Steinbach-area residents and this was our hospital,” says Penn-co

project manager Kristian Arellano. “By the time we prepared to hand over the building in December of 2025, and executives were about to undertake a final review, we were congratulated for a job well done, which was enormously fulfilling.” The new and improved Bethesda Regional Health Centre came online

in February 2026. “Improving programming and adding services was crucial to Bethesda’s effectiveness as a health centre moving forward, and this project benefitted from the architects and builders working at the top of their game,” MacNair says, adding that the project came in on time and on budget. A

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CIM-TAC – RED DEER POLYTECHNIC by ROBIN BRUNET

RENDERINGS COURTESY GGA-ARCHITECTURE

new expansion to Red Deer Polytechnic’s (RDP) Centre for Innovation in Manufacturing – Technology Access Centre (more commonly known as CIM-TAC) doesn’t merely expand the post-secondary learning facility from 15,000 to 25,000 square feet. It also enhances the institution’s ability to drive innovation, support industry, and train over 450 students annually, along with thousands of additional learners through training and workshops. As a hub for applied research, product development, and industry collaboration, CIM-TAC houses advanced prototyping equipment and applied research services, thus fueling innovation across the energy, transportation, agriculture, aviation, and health care industries. Tonya Wolfe, associate vice-president, applied research at RDP, points out that opportunities to expand arose in the wake of the former college transitioning to a polytechnic institute in 2021. “Being recognized by the federal government enabled us to hire key people to elevate our work, and we grew from four to 25 researchers. “However, our facility had been designed to focus on academic and traditional learning spaces. It did not have the industrial-grade concrete required to house industrial advanced manufacturing equipment, along with other additional needs to meet our growing infrastructure. So, we started a long process of advocacy that CIM-TAC – Red Deer Polytechnic

resulted, in 2024, with the province giving us the go-ahead to expand.” GGA-Architecture had completed a renovation for RDP prior to being retained by the institution. “We were inspired by RDP’s strong vision on how to grow,” says GGA partner Stephanie Yeung. “One thing that benefitted this project early on was the mutual decision to relocate the expansion from an originally proposed site: a building adjacent to CIM-TAC with a roof overhang that could be used to its advantage. “But it made more sense to expand the program next to the existing CIMTAC facility and fortify the brand; it would also simplify rather than complicate the flow of people and operations.” Once that decision was made, GGA undertook a lengthy process of understanding the complex people flows on campus and within CIM-TAC. “It was a lot like unlocking a puzzle, and the understanding guided so much of our design,” Yeung says. At the heart of the design was simplicity: the expansion consisted of a client-facing element and an industrial applied research component, the latter a two-storey translucent rectangular form with single-storey glazed corners at ground level. One of these corners is set back and buttressed by the singlestorey client-facing component, which is a fully glazed rectangular extension rounded at one end. The translucency of the warehouse was made possible by Kalwall high-performance panels that can

withstand extreme wind, fire, and impact. The sandwich panels provide precisely balanced museum-quality daylight for interiors (no glare, hotspots, or heat gain) while retaining user privacy and achieving up to R-20 insulation values. “I have always wanted to use these panels in a meaningful way, and this was the perfect opportunity,” Yeung says. The interior design continues the philosophy of keeping everything simple and clean, with pops of colour, a media wall, and workstations in the client element. “In the industrial applied research area, a big interior design piece was the integration of an overhead mobile crane, a visual representation of CIM-TAC’s dedication to industry,” Yeung says. Chandos Construction was retained as a construction manager in December of 2024. “The existing facility was fully operational, so the appropriate safety measures had to be established,” says senior project manager Ben Steenbergen, adding that “the extension was built on an existing parking lot, and the soil underneath was wonderful: just a few ancient services needed to be removed.” The superstructure consisted of piles, grade beams, and structural steel intended to help achieve LEED Silver, and Steenbergen says of the Kalwall panels, “They were made to tie into an aluminum framing system, which also tied into surrounding glazing and ACM panels. Overall, the

construction process has been smooth while working with RDP.” A ribbon cutting ceremony in the fall will be followed by the renovation of the existing CIM-TAC space, a job that will take only a few months. GGA is currently designing that renovation, which includes additional security for the entry points. Wolfe concludes, “It was so exciting to work with Stephanie and her colleagues to bring this facility to life. It took a lot of advocacy and hard work to make it happen, so we’re keenly anticipating the fall opening.” A

LOCATION 100 Donald Boulevard, Red Deer, Alberta OWNER/DEVELOPER Red Deer Polytechnic ARCHITECT GGA-Architecture CONSTRUCTION MANAGER Chandos Construction STRUCTURAL CONSULTANT RJC Engineers MECHANICAL CONSULTANT AME Group ELECTRICAL CONSULTANT SMP Engineering CIVIL CONSULTANT Aptus Engineering SUSTAINABILITY CONSULTANT Village Consulting TOTAL SIZE 25,000 square feet TOTAL COST $21.3 million

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LOCATION 281 Birch Avenue, Hamilton, Ontario OWNER/DEVELOPER City of Hamilton ARCHITECT/STRUCTURAL/MECHANICAL/ ELECTRICAL CONSULTANT Arcadis GENERAL CONTRACTOR Pomerleau CNG CONSULTANT Change Energy TOTAL SIZE 420,000 square feet TOTAL COST $390.4 million

HAMILTON TRANSIT BUS MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE FACILITY by ROBIN BRUNET

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY ARCADIS

n 2016, the Hamilton Transit Bus Maintenance and Storage Facility was budgeted at around $100 million, but time (and the pandemic) resulted in a much bigger project with a far larger price tag. Rob Broughton, project manager for the City of Hamilton, explains, “We wanted a facility that would not only support 200 buses but also 100 more in the future, so our plans grew – and when the budget more than tripled due partly to lockdown-related cost escalation, we did extensive value engineering in 2023 – and the effort was worth it.” The new 420,000-square-foot facility is a key component of the City’s efforts to expand and modernize Hamilton’s transit system. The building provides indoor storage, maintenance, washing, training, and administrative spaces, and is also the first bus maintenance facility anywhere in Ontario (and just the second in Canada) to be purpose-built with indoor compressed natural gas (CNG) fuelling lanes. Arcadis was retained as the lead designer (architecture and engineering) after the City acquired 24 acres of brownfield land in 2019. “This purpose-

driven facility enabled us to create a distinctive architectural identity expressed through building massing, material selection, and transparency,” says project director and market sector lead, operations and maintenance facilities, Eric Czerniak, adding that public consultation was crucial to creating a master plan that was enthusiastically greeted by both the City and Hamilton residents. Even with 24 acres available, spaces had to be carefully arranged.

Hamilton Transit Bus Maintenance and Storage Facility

“For example, we didn’t have room for surface car parking for employees, so we created a multi-level parkette structure for 400 cars that saved room and blocked the sight and sound of operations from the surrounding neighbourhood.” Because buses needed to be stored, maintained, and operated at grade, Arcadis elevated the office complex, and this created “a pattern of different blocks in which the office was not just a working space but a bridge between

the parking garage and the maintenance facility,” says Czerniak. “It also contributed to a safe, efficient pedestrian route separating staff circulation from vehicle operations.” As for the storage block, “It wasn’t a space people would spend time in, so we focused on the durability of the floors and walls, with good ventilation, lighting, and signage,” Czerniak says. The drive-through maintenance space with its work pits and body shops was a different matter: in addition to durability plus a heated floor, a curtain wall system was created “to provide a bright and open space,” Czerniak explains. “Our reasoning was that it would be nice for work crews to look around and see nature, even if they’re fixing engines.” The elevated administration block was also designed to accommodate as much natural light as possible, with panoramic views of the distant City of Burlington. S EP T EM B ER 2026

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Balancing Esthetics, Clear Open Spans & Cost Efficiency.

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The heavy use of precast throughout the facility not only contributed to the required durability, but “textured precast will also facilitate future expansion, inasmuch as sections of precast [on the south wall of the storage block] can be removed for the installation of more bays and then replaced, thereby minimizing disruption and reducing construction cost,” Czerniak says. Czerniak adds the value-added engineering that eliminated a proposed green roof as well as other flourishes didn’t impact the function or aesthetics of the facility: “If anything, omissions such as extruded metal mesh for exterior cladding were beneficial in that there was no longer visual competition for the golden curtain wall of the administration block, which now solidly anchors the entire facility.” Pomerleau commenced construction in late 2023 with demolition activities, the removal of existing buildings within the project boundary, and preparation for ground rehabilitation and improvements. They also encountered what appeared to be military munitions, requiring the intervention

of authorities, who determined they were old movie props. The Pomerleau team says the construction of this facility was immensely complex and required 4,800 tonnes of steel and 6,752 metal joists, with the entire structure sitting slab-on-grade on more than 6,000 concrete piles. Pomerleau worked in lockstep with the City of Hamilton, Arcadis, and a network of trade partners to meet project milestones on time and on budget. Throughout the course of construction, the team faced a variety of complex challenges, including unforeseen existing conditions and the need to co-ordinate and successfully execute multiple safety systems. Taking a collaborative approach, the project team worked through these obstacles together and was able to keep the project on track through to successful completion. The new facility opened for business in June of this year, and Broughton says, “We completed work below a revised budget of $390.4 million, which is remarkable considering the facility’s complexity and its importance to Hamilton’s future. We’re enormously proud of this project.” A

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CENTURY GARDENS YOUTH HUB by NATALIE BRUCKNER

RENDERINGS COURTESY CITY OF BRAMPTON

s Canada’s fastest-growing big city and home to one of the country’s youngest populations, Brampton’s growing network of youth hubs is becoming an essential part of its evolving civic landscape. The addition of a second youth hub will provide youth-centric spaces that serve as a one-stop destination for programs, services, and activities for residents aged 14 to 29. Opened in May 2023, the Youth Hub at the Susan Fennell Sportsplex was the first facility of its kind in Brampton. With the Century Gardens Youth Hub slated to open later this year, and youth spaces planned for the future at Embleton Community Centre, the city continues to expand access to spaces designed around the needs and interests of its young residents. The location offers strong connections to transit, sits alongside existing recreational, educational, and community amenities, and is positioned in an area where expanded youth supports can make a meaningful difference. “By integrating the hub within the broader Century Gardens Recreation Centre campus, youth can access recreation, social services, community supports, and leadership opportunities in one convenient location,” explains Erin Hashani, manager, recreation planning at the City of Brampton. The development of Century Gardens Youth Hub was informed by the experiences and insights gained from the city’s first hub. One of the clearest lessons was the importance of flexibility and youth voice in shaping spaces that truly reflect the needs of young people. It transpired that they wanted environments that could adapt throughout the day, accommodate different activities, and continue to evolve as the needs of the community change. The first hub also demonstrated that successful youth spaces are built around connection and collaboration. Another important lesson has been the value of strong partnerships. The opportunity to welcome a Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario (YWHO) site Century Gardens Youth Hub

to the Century Gardens Youth Hub through the City’s partnership with Peel Children’s Aid Society (Peel CAS) and network partners reinforces the importance of designing spaces that support multiple service providers and allow youth to access a range of supports in one location. “We also placed significant emphasis on ensuring the design reflects feedback received directly from youth so that the space feels authentic, relevant, and welcoming to the people it is intended to serve,” says Hashani. MJMA Architecture & Design was tasked with translating a vision shaped through this extensive consultation and they came up with a design that feels welcoming, flexible, and youth-focused from the moment someone walks through the door. “It was our partner in charge, Ted Watson, who initially led the concept. One of the key ideas he brought forward was the importance of placing activity where it could be seen and experienced by the community,” explains Dan Kronby, principal at MJMA. “A question we explored early on was whether outdoor play areas belonged at the back or front of the building. Ted often reflected on how, when his children were younger, they wanted to play out front where the activity was happening, rather than in the backyard. That simple observation helped shape the decision to place the amphitheatre and play space at the front of the building, facing the street. “From there, we developed the oval form clad in brick in collaboration with our in-house landscape architects. In plan, the building is roughly square, with a large oval carved out of it to create an outdoor space that becomes a natural extension of the hub.” The exterior plaza-amphitheatre space is the defining element of the design, with the roughly L-shaped building framing the outdoor gathering area. Generous sloped walkways integrated into the landscape lead visitors to the main entrance porch, creating a gradual and accessible arrival experience.

Stepping inside, the design shifts from an outdoor gathering space to an interior environment built around visibility, connection, and activity. The main lobby serves as the social heart of the hub, creating immediate sightlines to the spaces beyond. “It’s designed to feel active and welcoming,” says Mike Stofko, architect at MJMA. “Straight ahead is an e-sports and gaming area, while to the right is the reception and information desk. There’s also a teaching kitchen with a screen for demonstrations. Visually, you get strong connections through the building as you can see out to the park to the north and directly through to the soccer box to the west.” Further into the hub, spaces such as meeting rooms and the recording studio provide quieter areas for focused activities, creating a balance between social connection and opportunities for learning, creativity, and reflection. The material palette reinforces the welcoming, flexible character of the hub while balancing warmth with durability. “Directly above you, the structure is exposed to reveal a mass timber deck with mass timber beams. Wood finishes throughout bring warmth, while everything else is largely painted black, which helps highlight the wood and creates a strong contrast,” says Stofko. Sustainability was a key consideration throughout the design process. “The hub is designed as a zero-carbon building. The team carefully evaluated the carbon impact of the materials used and calculated their overall impact. That process guided choices toward more sustainable options and helped reduce the building’s carbon footprint. Mass timber is a big part of that. The building also contains progressive elements including photovoltaic panels and geothermal systems,” says Stofko. While the inside is incredibly impressive, back outside, from a physical perspective, the programming spaces are particularly unique. “Features such as the outdoor

amphitheatre, community gardens, basketball court, and Atiba Hutchinson soccer court create opportunities for youth to gather, be active, and connect with the broader community,” says Hashani. Just west of the building, the fully enclosed soccer box is a lit turf facility that was added early in the design process despite not being part of the original request for proposals. Named in honour of Bramptonborn soccer star Atiba Hutchinson, former captain of Canada’s men’s national team, the facility reflects the city’s deep connection to the sport and its commitment to expanding opportunities for young athletes. Working alongside the design team, Rafat General Contracting helped bring the project from concept to completion, transforming the collaborative vision into a fully realized community facility. For Hashani, the project’s success comes down to its impact on young people. “What makes this project truly special is that it was designed with young people at the centre. It is more than a building. It’s a place where youth can connect with their community, access supports, explore new interests, build skills, and discover opportunities that help shape their future,” says Hashani. A

LOCATION 342 Vodden Street East, Brampton, Ontario OWNER/DEVELOPER City of Brampton ARCHITECT/LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT MJMA Architecture & Design GENERAL CONTRACTOR Rafat General Contractor Inc. STRUCTURAL CONSULTANT Blackwell Structural Engineers MECHANICAL/ELECTRICAL CONSULTANT Zain Sustainability Consultants TOTAL SIZE 12,500 square feet TOTAL COST $19.5 million

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SAANICH FIRE STATION #2 by NATALIE BRUCKNER

RENDERING COURTESY HCMA ARCHITECTURE + DESIGN

s the most populous municipality on Vancouver Island, the replacement of the existing Saanich Fire Station #2 marks a necessary step forward, strengthening the municipality’s emergency response capabilities while providing infrastructure to support evolving needs. The current 3,800-square-foot building, that was well past its effective life, is being transformed into a 23,000-square-foot facility designed to support expanded operations and future community needs. The new station will accommodate two crews, provide space for six additional pieces of equipment, and include two drive-through bays, with three additional tandem drivethrough bays providing storage for apparatus currently housed in exterior locations across the municipality. A public meeting room, training facilities, and space for future expansion are integrated into both the building and the site. Plans to upgrade the facility began in 2018, when the District of Saanich developed and adopted a Strategic Facilities Master Plan in response to growing concerns around the condition and capacity of its major facilities. The plan identified two facilities as posing the greatest risk to service delivery: the Saanich Operations Centre and Fire Station #2. According to Stacy McGhee, architect and program manager, strategic facilities planning with the District of Saanich’s Engineering Department, Fire Station #2 had become increasingly critical Saanich Fire Station #2

due to three factors: continued district growth, its proximity to the highway and associated increase in response calls, and its location at the rural-forested and urban interface. A Business Case was presented to and approved by Council in 2019, comparing three scenarios. “The performance option, which considered a LEED Gold mass timber facility, confirmed lowest whole life capital and operating costs when compared to the other options. In other words, the identified need was quantified to present to Council and the public that the District had sufficiently documented the justification.” With the project need established, the team that included hcma architecture + design as architect and Knappett Projects as general contractor, turned its attention to translating operational requirements and site conditions into a functional, futureready facility. The site presented several challenges during the planning and development process. The District’s 3:1 tree replacement policy for developments requiring tree removal introduced both constraints and opportunities for the landscape design. Trees that could not be accommodated on the site were relocated to nearby parks. Serving as the Fire Department’s training facility, the station required the amalgamation of adjacent lots to accommodate both the larger building footprint and expanded training area. Because the District already owned the additional lots, this process was

incorporated into the rezoning and development permit approvals. The site conditions became key drivers in the design process. The angled north property line, immediate adjacency to two high-traffic streets, and fixed locations for vehicle entry and exit influenced not only the building’s floor plan but also the detailed configuration of the site and circulation patterns. “The building program and available lot area required a two-storey building solution, in addition to the ceiling height necessary for the apparatus bays. This height and the distinctive overhanging flat roof were welcomed by neighbouring residents. More directly, hcma’s choice of materials moved away from an industrial aesthetic toward brick and exposed wood, creating a work of contemporary design that many people find appropriate and attractive within the neighbourhood,” says McGhee. Dark brick cladding and exposed CLT roof panels at the soffits create an understated yet robust expression suited to its civic role. Metal panels on the east and west elevations, as well as within the apparatus bays, introduce additional colour and detailing while providing a durable, low-maintenance finish suited to the demands of an important public safety facility. Inside, the material strategy continues through the staff kitchen and administrative areas on the ground floor, as well as the upper-level dormitories, where the exposed underside of the CLT ceilings defines the interior

character. “Both aesthetically and acoustically high performing, these areas are generously naturally lit in both room spaces and hallways. The dorms are single-room occupant, furthering the Fire Department’s commitment to non-gender specific accommodation and avoiding shared rooms where possible,” says McGhee. The station was also designed to strengthen its connection with the community. A ground-floor meeting LOCATION 4595 Elk Lake Drive, Saanich, B.C. OWNER/DEVELOPER District of Saanich PROJECT MANAGER Core PM ARCHITECT hcma architecture + design GENERAL CONTACTOR Knappett Projects STRUCTURAL CONSULTANT RJC Engineers MECHANICAL/ELECTRICAL CONSULTANT Introba CIVIL CONSULTANT J.E. Anderson LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT LADR MECHANICAL CONTRACTOR Erb Technical Contracting ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Canem BUILDING CONTROLS Houle TOTAL SIZE 27,000 square feet TOTAL COST $44.6 million

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RENDERINGS COURTESY HCMA ARCHITECTURE + DESIGN

room for nearby community associations, along with enhanced landscaping and public art at the northwest corner of the site, reinforce the District’s commitment to a functional and welcoming civic presence. From the outset, Fire Station #2 was conceived as a high-performance civic building, balancing the demands of post-disaster structural design with a commitment to long-term environmental performance. Pursuing CAGBC Zero Carbon Building - Design and LEED v4 Gold certification, the facility is among the first mass timber buildings in Canada to pursue this level of performance while maintaining full post-disaster response capabilities.

“The District’s policies for sustainable design is strongly supported by this project,” says McGhee. “Both the

rooftop photovoltaic array that provides 85 percent of daily electrical demand requirements, and the geothermal field and ground source heat pump providing the building with simultaneous heating and cooling when required are the two key elements that support the energy performance targets.” Carl-Jan Rupp, principal, hcma architecture + design says that a strong team of professionals, clients, users, and builders came together to successfully push the boundaries of building performance and sustainable design without sacrificing architectural excellence. “We created a low-carbon, functional public safety hub in a prime

location that will act as a civic cornerstone for decades. It’s the ultimate reflection of what an exceptional, collaborative team can achieve.” For McGhee, Fire Station #2 represents the culmination of decades of work and collaboration. “I’ve had a terrific 40 years in my career working on many memorable projects, working with great people. This project, however, has been a special opportunity to shepherd a leading-edge vision from District-wide facilities strategic planning all the way through to project commissioning, occupancy, and ongoing use and maintenance. It’s rare that one gets to see such an important community asset fully realized from vision to reality, one that will be appreciated by so many, not least of all the fire staff responsible, whose dedication keeps our community safe.” Michael Kaye, fire chief at the Saanich Fire Department agrees, and concludes by saying: “This project reflects many years of planning, effort, and collaboration, and it has truly been a team effort involving many contributors. We are very excited to see such a spectacular result come together, and I know we will all be proud to say we were part of it.” A

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BROOKS JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL by LAURIE JONES

RENDERINGS COURTESY FWBA ARCHITECTS

or the community of Brooks, Alberta, the replacement of the Brooks Junior High School has been a long-overdue project, but the finished result not only brings the school up to modern educational standards, it also addresses student and staff needs for technology, accessibility, and traffic flow for comfortable movement throughout the day. Originally built in the 1950s for grades seven through nine, the school had been on the capital plan for a long time, says Scott Brandt, superintendent at Grasslands Public Schools. “Among other issues, the old building had a basement and the concrete was delaminating, making it the number one capital priority in 2020,” he explains. “It was quite a maze to walk through and not very accessible,” says Rhian Schroeder, assistant superintendent. “Having about three different levels, nothing is really easy to get to. Because of the old school’s age, the hallways and stairwells are narrow. The official capacity of that school was 663. We would have a hard time fitting the current student population into that space.” The new school, which is slated to open in September 2026, is a singlestorey building featuring a central core gathering area with three distinct wings designed for each particular grade. “The gathering space in the centre becomes the focal point for many activities,” says Brandt. “For example, if the band wants to do a concert, they just open up the band room and have their stage right in the gathering space. Or for tournaments, the big glass doors off of the gym can be opened, and the crowd just flows from the gym right into the central core.” When design considerations began, the stakeholders approached for input consisted primarily of staff, students, and parents in the community with regular consulting as the project progressed. “We had student advisory Brooks Junior High School

meetings and the excitement for the new school opening is amazing,” he says. “Our principal has been instrumental in ensuring the long-term vision of how the school can support student learning.” Tony Barrett, architect with FWBA Architects, explains that the new school is located on what was the sports field of the current building, which will eventually become the new field after demolition. “The new school has been designed to accommodate 720 students, with an expansion option for up to 820 with the addition of modular classrooms.” Barrett says the design carries a prairie feel with graphics and decals. “A three-colour scheme designates specific aspects of the school for grades, and the majority of classrooms are separated into one grade level per coloured wing.” He notes the colours – blue, green, and terracotta, or rusty orange – blend together with the flooring design and into the central gathering space. The new sports field was originally planned as a comparable replacement for the existing grass football field. “Now the school division is fundraising to upgrade it to an artificial turf football and sports field. They’ve already raised a significant portion of the funds and are working to secure the remainder for a future field house and outdoor storage building for items such as football equipment, track and field, and more. It will be a significant upgrade and the only facility of its kind in Brooks,” says Barrett. Another member of the FWBA Architects team, Dan Westwood, was originally involved in the design of the replacement school. “Dan is an architect and was a partner at our firm during the early design stages of the project,” says Barrett. “He was largely responsible for the overall concept and design direction of the new school.”

The LEED Silver project is also adjacent to the JBS Canada Centre that offers options for physical education programming, including a skating rink and pool. Trevor Ens, operations manager for Lear Construction, says the building uses robust materials like concrete and steel, contrasting with older masonry and wood-frame structures. “It includes significant glazing, including sloped curtain walls and clerestory.” Many parts of the school connect with the central gathering space with large sliding glass doors, including the library, the gym, the stage, and food servery. Ens notes one feature of the stage is an open cab wheelchair lift for accessibility. “One part of the design that stands out for me is the principal’s ability to see all three classroom wings from a single location in the centre core.” A

LOCATION 124 – 4th Avenue East, Brooks, Alberta OWNER/DEVELOPER Grasslands Public Schools ARCHITECT FWBA Architects GENERAL CONTRACTOR LEAR Construction STRUCTURAL CONSULTANT Entuitive MECHANICAL CONSULTANT The HIDI Group ELECTRICAL CONSULTANT SMP Engineering CIVIL CONSULTANT MPE Engineering LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT ISL Engineering & Land Services TOTAL SIZE 69,718 square feet TOTAL COST $48.3 million

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SOUTH END COMMUNITY CENTRE by ROBIN BRUNET

RENDERING COURTESY MJMA ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN; PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY CITY OF GUELPH

ith its twin ice pads, aquatic centre plus a lap and leisure pool, double gymnasium, and multi-purpose rooms all connected by a central lobby, the South End Community Centre (SECC) in south Guelph is the culmination of a long-standing dream: to complement a local high school and community park, both developed in 2001, and serve future growth in the south end of Guelph within the Clair-Maltby Secondary Plan area and the Guelph Innovation District (GID). Plans for SECC were in the works since 2003, when it was first identified in a development charges study (it was also identified on various needs assessments since 2009). “The project got underway in earnest in 2014 to 2015 with a feasibility study and site selection,” says Ian Scott, manager of facility design and construction in the City of Guelph’s infrastructure, development, and enterprise department. “We retained MJMA Architecture & Design, which had worked with us previously to develop our West End Community Centre, and in 2015 all the major components of SECC were determined, including the twin ice pads and pool.” Scott adds that the SECC was also intended to be an integral part of the city’s net-zero carbon and renewable energy goals, ultimately generating 62 percent energy savings and 85 percent savings in greenhouse gas emissions. At the time of its design, the project was one of the South End Community Centre

first in Canada with its program mix to achieve the Canadian Building Council Net Zero Carbon standard. The SECC was approved in 2020 with a budget of $80 million, and MJMA, having undertaken extensive public consultation, planned for two large double-height buildings connected by a central lobby, with natural light pulled into all primary spaces and views to the surrounding verdant Paris-Galt Moraine landscape optimized on both levels. Although massive, the centre’s bulk was mitigated by faceting its form and the judicious use of glazing. The windows were oriented via angled openings to reduce glare inside the sports halls and also give pedestrians inviting views of interior activities. MJMA arranged the massing so that the pools, gymnasium, and two arenas are in a clear quadrant configuration. These spaces are also skewed, opening up a continuous freeform area between them that comprises two courtyard plazas on the exterior and the generous interior lobby. The lobby itself was designed to be both a highly transparent connective tissue as well as the social heart of the complex, with ample space for gatherings and intuitive wayfinding. Scott says of the net zero elements, “They are numerous and subtle but amount to a significant reduction of energy, one example being an overhang for the south-facing windows, in addition to the windows along the east side being angled north for heat gain.”

Scott adds that budgeting proved to be a challenge, and at one point the project was paused after construction bids came in significantly over $80 million, the lowest being for $121 million (due to material price hikes related to the pandemic). “Originally this was to have been a design-bid-build project, but we switched to a construction management framework in order to get more constructive input from Aquicon Construction Ltd., and they helped enormously in keeping everything on track, with no big changes occurring to our programming.” Construction began in October of 2023 with the budget set at $115.5 million. Eventually, the Ontario government announced a $10-million grant for the centre, with $5.5 million intended to improve the centre’s ability to generate revenue or lower operating costs. The construction process was uneventful save for security measures being implemented to safeguard two heavily used sites (Bishop Macdonell Catholic High School and the South End Community Park). Aquicon’s skill allowed for the rapid development of the steel frame building with concrete foundations, augmented by a highefficiency envelope that helps lower overall energy demand and operating costs. As of mid-July, the South End Community Centre was 95 percent complete, and in looking back at the 20-year gestation period of this project, Scott concludes, “It’s exciting for

LOCATION 25 Poppy Drive, Guelph, Ontario OWNER/DEVELOPER City of Guelph ARCHITECT MJMA Architecture & Design CONSTRUCTION MANAGER Aquicon Construction Ltd. STRUCTURAL CONSULTANT Blackwell Structural Engineers MECHANICAL/ELECTRICAL CONSULTANT Smith + Andersen CIVIL CONSULTANT EMC Group LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT NAK Design Strategies / MJMA TOTAL SIZE 160,000 square feet TOTAL COST $121 million

all those involved to be part of the team that built this wonderful new facility. It will serve the needs of the region for many decades to come.” A S EP T EM B ER 2026

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LOCATION 3608 Ryder Hesjedal Way, Colwood, B.C. OWNER/DEVELOPER Royal BC Museum / Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport ARCHITECT MGA (Michael Green Architecture) DESIGN-BUILD CONTACTOR Maple Reinders Constructors STRUCTURAL CONSULTANT Equilibrium Engineering MULTIDISCIPLINARY ENGINEERING CONSULTANT Arup MECHANICAL/ELECTRICAL/CIVIL/ GEOTECHNICAL CONSULTANT WSP TOTAL SIZE 164,000 square feet TOTAL COST $270 million

ROYAL BC MUSEUM – PARC CAMPUS by ROBIN BRUNET

RENDERINGS BY MGA (MICHAEL GREEN ARCHITECTURE)/COURTESY RBCM.CA

hether the measure is function, aesthetic appeal, sustainability, or cultural significance, the Royal BC Museum’s PARC campus designers and builders delivered. Allison Bond, CEO of the Royal BC Museum, says, “The provincial archives, research and collections – PARC – building is one-of-a-kind. It is a state-of-theart facility, unique in terms of its design, providing accessible archives and research opportunities.” Fundamental to PARC is critical infrastructure that preserves the province’s human and natural history collections (previously stored at the museum’s aging downtown Victoria site), in addition to dedicated research labs and learning resources. The building is also an open public space, allowing visitors to view objects and displays, watch researchers at work, and create engagement between staff and the public. Built entirely from B.C.-sourced wood with rammed earth wall features, PARC is the largest mass timber cultural building in North America. Its dowel-laminated timber (DLT) structure was supplied and installed by International Timberframes of Golden, B.C. “We initiated planning for the project in order to demonstrate the need for capital investment,” says Kim Anderson, vice president at Transportation Investment Corporation. “We received approvals to proceed to procurement in late Royal BC Museum – PARC Campus

2021 and retained Michael Green Architecture Inc. [MGA] and Maple Reinders Constructors Ltd. in 2023; from the outset, sustainability and reconciliation were our guiding principles, in addition to artifact preservation and public education.”

MGA turned the traditional grandiose design on its head by creating a one-storey mass timber structure with a pitched and sloped CLT roof that sits low to the ground and is inviting rather than imposing. Equally inviting interior flow was achieved with

the development of a looped corridor, “with archival and education spaces arranged on either side and transparent to the public,” Green says. “The single storey also gives staff and the public easier access to interior elements as well as outdoor space.” Inside the building, flexible spaces and outdoor garden classrooms were designed to facilitate visits and learning. Given the cultural and environmental motivations for PARC, Green and the owner’s team were enthusiastic about creating earth walls in some locations of the facility. “The process to create these walls, which are structurally similar to concrete, is very labour intensive and involves hand tamping earth mixed with a bonding agent,” Green says. As for the most crucial part of PARC, Anderson points out, “not a lot of companies exist in the world that build collections storage systems to the diversity and level of sophistication required. The design-build team eventually sourced an appropriate firm in the Netherlands. The storage rooms themselves are designed with precise temperature, humidity, and lighting controls. Protection of the collections also influenced how services were routed through the building: there couldn’t be any overhead waterlines above collections, for example.” Somewhat akin to library storage, archives and collection storage at PARC consists of a rail system embedded in the concrete slab upon which carriages affixed to storage stacks can be S EP T EM B ER 2026

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manoeuvred (and compressed together, to maximize space). “A book could be written about the mechanical complexities supporting the archives and other areas,” Green says. “Fortunately, the outdoor mechanical components were concealed by the higher archive volumes, so the public will see nothing of the complexity, only a building that seems like part of the natural surroundings.” Green and Anderson credit Maple Reinders for bringing the facility to fruition on time within a compressed schedule, and the latter says of the actual construction site, “It used to be a gravel pit, and a fair bit of remediation had been conducted

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prior, so we were able to hit the ground running in August of 2023.” Bond and her colleagues are excited by the impending completion of PARC. “The archives will be opening this winter by appointment to begin with, and the collections and research areas will open to the public in late 2027,” she says. “In addition, the green spaces contain all native plants, and the nearby pond and wetlands will attract local wildlife. “Opening the B.C. Archives and collections at the PARC campus is an important step forward in modernizing the Royal BC Museum as an institution.” A

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JIM PATTISON ACUTE CARE TOWER – ROYAL COLUMBIAN HOSPITAL (PHASE 2)

LOCATION 330 East Columbia St., New Westminster, B.C. OWNER/DEVELOPER Fraser Health Authority ARCHITECTS Parkin Architects (interior fit-out); HDR, Inc. (exterior) DESIGN-BUILD CONTRACTOR EllisDon STRUCTURAL CONSULTANT Bush, Bohlman & Partners MECHANICAL/ELECTRICAL CONSULTANT Salas O’Brien CIVIL CONSULTANT Urban Systems LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT M2 Landscape Architecture MECHANICAL CONTRACTOR Trotter & Morton ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Houle TOTAL SIZE 65,000 square metres TOTAL COST (PHASES 2 & 3) $1.7 billion

by ROBIN BRUNET

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY FRASER HEALTH AUTHORITY

he Jim Pattison Acute Care Tower represents a long-term investment in the future of health care in B.C., expanding access to the critical services the community needs. As phase two of the multi-year redevelopment of Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster, the new 388-bed, 10-storey tower is designed to achieve LEED Gold certification, with elements such as the incorporation of energyefficient systems that improve indoor air quality, support infection control, and create a more comfortable environment for patients and care teams. In terms of programming, the Acute Care Tower features a new, larger emergency department with 75 treatment spaces; a 47-bed intensive care unit, featuring a dedicated smudging room for Indigenous families; a new 17-bed cardiac intensive care unit; medical inpatient beds spanning five floors; a 48-bed obstetrics unit, co-located with a neonatal intensive care unit and 17 new operating rooms and interventional radiology and cardiac suites. Michelle Blake, chief project officer for Fraser Health Authority, says the design-builder EllisDon retained Parkin as architect of record for the interior fit-out and HDR, Inc. for the exterior design of the tower, after the business plan for the project was approved by government in 2017.

“While a lot of the work focused on programming, the project provided numerous opportunities for architectural expression both inside and out,” Blake says. Early on, Fraser Health directed Parkin to focus on patient-centered architecture intended to reduce stress and improve the patient experience. Parkin took this direction and created a design in which most patient beds would be in single-patient private rooms, with ensuite washrooms, big windows for natural light, and dedicated areas for care partners. “Natural light was crucial to the success of the interiors, even including the emergency room and critical care areas,” Blake says.

Jim Pattison Acute Care Tower – Royal Columbian Hospital (Phase 2)

Operational efficiency was a prime consideration. For example, an interventional “super floor” connected to the existing Health Care Centre was designed to group the 17 operating rooms, interventional radiology, and cardiac suites tightly together to optimize the flow for complex procedures. Multiple features were designed for staff safety, including separate routes for patients and staff, and improved lines of sight from care stations. To provide a more comfortable working environment, multiple staff lounges with at least one kitchen per floor S EP T EM B ER 2026

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PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY FRASER HEALTH AUTHORITY

wrapped in Indigenous patterns, and wood elements on window frames, column bases, and ceiling. A design-build contract for the tower was finalized in 2020. “Originally this was envisioned as a P3 project but changed following a review led by Fraser Health executives,” Blake says. “And although the COVID lockdowns resulted in price escalations and supply issues, EllisDon and the trades dealt with these challenges.” An old mental health complex, main entrance, and maintenance building were demolished in order were developed, in addition to change rooms and outdoor amenity spaces. The nearby Fraser River inspired HDR’s concept for the tower’s exterior and features a riverbank-evoking façade. At street level, the building’s interior and exterior utilize calming colours, natural materials, and wood elements to evoke a natural riverbank. That sense of serenity continues into the double-height main entrance and lobby (with a north side two-storey column shaped as a ‘W’ to support the overhang), whose bright, airy space is augmented by huge columns

for work on the tower to commence. In addition to construction of the building, EllisDon, along with Salas O’Brien, Houle, and Paladin Security provided mechanical, electrical, architectural lighting, IT, telecom, audiovisual, and security design services. Delivering the project required close co-ordination within an active health care campus, and disruptions to patient care were minimized throughout the construction process. Upon completion of the tower in May of 2026, Parkin stated, “More than a project milestone, this achievement reflects years of vision, dedication, and collaboration in bringing an important new healthcare destination to life. “This moment was made possible through the collective efforts of an exceptional project team, including Parkin, our design and consultant partners, the client, and the many contributors whose expertise, commitment, and collaboration have been instrumental to the success of Royal Columbian Hospital Phase 2.” Phase 3 will include upgrades to the existing Health Care Centre and Columbia Tower to support the beds and services added in Phase 2. Those renovations are expected to begin in 2027. A

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Jim Pattison Acute Care Tower – Royal Columbian Hospital (Phase 2)

JACK BELL BUILDING RENEWAL – UBC (SOWK)

LOCATION 2080 West Mall, Vancouver, B.C. OWNER/DEVELOPER UBC Campus + Community Planning / UBC Facilities – Project Services ARCHITECTS Proscenium Architecture + Interiors / Teeple Architects GENERAL CONTRACTOR Heatherbrae Builders Co. Ltd. STRUCTURAL CONSULTANT RJC Engineers MECHANICAL CONSULTANT AME Group ELECTRICAL CONSULTANT AES Group TOTAL SIZE 32,000 square feet TOTAL COST $29 million

by NATALIE BRUCKNER

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY PROSCENIUM ARCHITECTURE + INTERIORS

ince 2012, The University of British Columbia (UBC) has invested more than $200 million in seismic upgrades to its buildings and infrastructure. The investment represents years of work taking place across campus to strengthen existing buildings while enhancing the spaces where learning, research, and community happen. It also reflects a broader shift in how institutions approach renewal: looking at aging buildings as opportunities to improve safety, performance, and experience all at once. UBC has become exemplary in this regard, drawing on research, engineering expertise, and collaboration with specialists and faculty to develop solutions that go beyond conventional expectations. The renewal of the Jack Bell Building for the School of Social Work (SOWK) is the latest example of this commitment in action. Constructed in 1992, the building has undergone a complete transformation. Completed by Heatherbrae Builders, the renewal addressed seismic vulnerabilities and aging systems, while creating a new environment for teaching and connection. Structural upgrades, a renewed building envelope, updated mechanical and electrical systems, redesigned interiors, and improved accessibility have reshaped the building for the decades ahead. The design of Jack Bell reflects the values of the SOWK. At the same time, the project advances UBC’s broader goal of creating a more resilient campus. “This project has been designed to achieve a UBC REDi Guideline Silver Rating,” says Noel McNally, senior project manager, UBC Facilities – Project Services. “Normally, existing buildings are upgraded to meet life safety standards, meaning they won’t collapse in a major event, but we’re aiming higher. We want buildings to be usable after an event. For this project, we targeted a Silver resilience rating. That means the building should be reoccupiable Jack Bell Building Renewal – UBC (SOWK)

within about six months after a onein-475-year earthquake event.” One distinctive feature of the renewal is that some of the seismic improvements can be seen. In many buildings, structural reinforcements disappear behind walls, but at Jack Bell, the strategy became part of the design. “Because the building has a steel-frame structure, we introduced exposed brace bays with fusible links, components engineered to absorb earthquake forces in a controlled way. If there’s an earthquake, the building remains stable, and any damage is concentrated in that link. It can then be inspected, unbolted, and replaced relatively easily, restoring the building’s structural capacity. What I like about this is that the links are visible.” For the design team, that transparency reflects a larger philosophy behind the renewal. Every intervention had to balance technical performance with the experience of the people who would occupy the building, allowing Teeple Architects (design architect) and Proscenium Architecture + Interiors (architect of record) to rethink how an academic building could support that. Using fibre cement panels on the exterior introduces a warmer, more approachable character. The renewal also rethought accessibility. “Due to adjacent grades, none of the existing entrances were technically accessible, which ran counter to the School of Social Work’s focus on inclusion,” says Avery Guthrie, principal at Teeple Architects. “That was actually a really interesting challenge,” adds Kori Chan, principal at Proscenium Architecture + Interiors. “With a brand-new building, we could set the floor plate and determine where everything goes. Here, we have to work with what already exists.” The team gently adjusted the ground floor plan and grading so the front entrance now aligns naturally with the surrounding grades and creates a more welcoming arrival experience.

That same principle guided the transformation of the interior, where stripping the building back gave the team an opportunity to rethink how the building connects people, light, and landscape. One of the most dramatic changes is the transformation of the lower level. “The basement used to feel disconnected, but now there’s an atrium bringing light down, with stairs linking levels. It feels more like a semi-below-grade level,” explains McNally. “We also created better connections between classrooms. There’s a large classroom on the main level and smaller ones below, which creates more interaction and energy in those spaces.” The atrium became a central organizing element of the renewal. The design team also relocated the level one stair outward, creating more openness and allowing natural light to travel further into the building. Expanded skylights and new informal learning areas now create spaces where students can gather, work, and connect outside the classroom, turning circulation spaces into active parts of the building. These changes create a stronger visual connection through the full height of the building, while the use of glass throughout the interior further enhances that openness. While the glass supports transparency, daylight, and the overall design, it serves an important life-safety function by creating smoke separation, allowing the building to meet safety requirements while maintaining visual connection. Materials were carefully selected to support these goals. “The wood acoustic panels serve an important technical purpose while also being a fairly cost-effective solution,” Guthrie says. “It worked beautifully because it allowed us to foreground natural materials and continue the organic formal language of the building.” The renewal also addressed aging mechanical and electrical systems,

replacing components that were reaching the end of their useful life while supporting UBC’s Climate Action Plan. The project also considered future climate conditions, with systems designed using a 2050 weather file to model building performance and to ensure they can continue to operate effectively as conditions change. “We’ve incorporated an air-cooled chiller so the building can provide the cooling for Vancouver’s expected future warmer summers,” says McNally. For McNally, the carbon benefits of renewal are one of the most compelling reasons to rethink how buildings are upgraded. Jack Bell has achieved Zero Carbon Building (ZCB) Design Standard certification, leveraging carbon savings from reusing the existing concrete and steel structure while reducing operational emissions through the new high-performance systems. “It’s always easier to say, ‘just knock the building down and rebuild,’” says McNally. “But the amount of both embodied carbon and operational carbon we save by renewing buildings is significant.” For Guthrie, the success of the renewal is in extending the life of the building while creating something entirely new for the people who use it. “We’re not only doubling the life of the building, but doing so in a meaningful way. We haven’t just reinforced the structure and allowed the building to continue as it was. Many people wouldn’t know this was a renewal project. They would think it is a brandnew building.” McNally says the ultimate measure of success is how the building supports the people inside it. “We’re still early in occupancy, but so far the response has been good. At the end of the day, you can deliver on budget, schedule, and technical requirements, but what matters most is whether the users feel the building supports their work.” A S EP T EM B ER 2026

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TEK TOWER by ROBIN BRUNET

RENDERINGS COURTESY SRM ARCHITECTS & URBAN DESIGNERS

n terms of visual appeal, the new TEK Tower in Kitchener’s Innovation District lives up to its marketing description as “45 storeys of stylish and modern living and the ideal address for today’s groundbreakers and trailblazers.” The development consists of a podium with dramatic angled vertical glazing slices, upon which sits a tower with gently rounded corners and defined by wraparound balconies at each level. Inside are 549 living units, 223 parking stalls, and 1,800 square feet of commercial space at ground level. Amenity spaces include a meeting room, fitness centre, yoga room, party room, and terrace space with barbecue (over 12,000 square feet of outdoor amenity space in total). IN8 Developments officially launched TEK Tower in February of 2022, followed by the acquisition of permits and neighbour agreements. “This was a very smooth project to work on as evidenced by less red tape to deal with,” says IN8 senior project manager Brett Reed. TEK Tower was vital to the Innovation District in that it would provide muchneeded affordable accommodation to the neighbourhood’s population of young engineers and tech professionals. The facility was noteworthy in that from the outset, IN8 and SRM Architects & Urban Designers saw it as an opportunity to create a modern, glittering form of glass and aluminum – a departure from the concrete and stone materials of so many buildings in the immediate facility. “While the tower design was guided by simplicity and balance, TEK Tower

the podium was envisioned as a robust architectural base clad in precast concrete,” says SRM partner Marc Villemaire. “Drawing on the tonal qualities of the adjacent Lang Tannery buildings, the cladding reinterprets their industrial character through a contemporary texture and orientation.” Keeping it simple – but not boring – led to the architects rounding the corners of the tower, and the rooftop machine room provided the opportunity to tie back to the podium by being a concrete structure with angular slices similar to those of the podium. “The vertical glazing establishes a subtle tree-like rhythm across the façade, a motif reinforced at the main entrance where metal-clad columns define the recessed entrance as a contemporary interpretation of a forest edge,” Villemaire says. That motif is also apparent in the ground-level wind mitigation features, which take the form of horizontal recesses in the building with large structural supports and wraparound screens behind which are public benches. As for the energy efficiency of the tower, this was achieved mainly by procurement of high-performance glazing from Europe. IN8 and SRM focused on augmenting TEK Tower’s living units with an abundance of amenities. “The design incorporates an elevated park with generous landscaping atop the podium, complemented by a groundfloor gymnasium, and commercial spaces that help animate the street and foster an active public realm,”

Villemaire says, adding that the Francis Green urban park across the street from TEK Tower was targeted for renewal, with crosswalks feeding into the tower as an additional amenity for residents. Reed was particularly impressed by a random stone pattern defining the concrete face of the podium: “It was created by form liners that Villemaire’s team specified. It took careful coordination to line up, but that and the angled glazing is really striking.” Another subtle layer of the design can be seen in the wraparound balconies. Early iterations explored the use of integrated lighting at each balcony edge, but as the design matured, the team opted for a more nuanced solution, introducing ceramic fritted glass that animates the façade through pattern, reflection, and light rather than illumination itself. IN8 Construction Management Inc. began excavation work on TEK Tower in November of 2022, and the foundation footings were poured the following February. “Aside from dewatering that had to be undertaken when we hit groundwater during excavation, construction was fairly uneventful, and really kicked into high gear once we finished the podium and moved to the tower, whose floorplates were the same,”

Reed says. Indeed, 43 levels were reached by March of 2025. In mid-July, Reed reported that “about 95 percent of TEK Tower is complete, and we’re all very excited by the outcome. Since its start four years ago, every aspect of this project seemed to come together quickly and smoothly, which of course is every developer’s dream. Together, we’ve provided a beautiful addition to Kitchener’s Innovation District.” A

LOCATION 30 Francis Street, Kitchener, Ontario OWNER/DEVELOPER IN8 Developments ARCHITECT SRM Architects & Urban Designers GENERAL CONTRACTOR IN8 Construction Management Inc. STRUCTURAL CONSULTANT Jablonsky, Ast & Partners MECHANICAL/ELECTRICAL CONSULTANT Strik, Baldinelli, Moniz Ltd. (SBM) PLANNING/URBAN DESIGN/ LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE GSP Group INTERIOR DESIGN CONSULTANT Dfy Studio TOTAL SIZE 495,000 square feet TOTAL COST Undisclosed

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VILLAGE SoHo

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOM ARBAN/COURTESY NICHOLSON SHEFFIELD ARCHITECTS INC.

by JESSICA KIRBY

Village SoHo

illage SoHo began with a collective, passionate – and life-changing – mission: bring experienced, not-for-profit housing developers and an awardwinning design team together to create a range of safe and affordable rental housing options in London, Ontario’s SoHo neighbourhood. Yet, that was only the beginning. As Malcolm Ross, project manager at Shire Consulting, notes, the project focused on developing mixed-income and mixed-use housing near transit and other amenities, while integrating supports and services to maximize social inclusion, neighbourhood integration, accessibility, and environmental sustainability. Recognizing the need for more affordable housing in London, the London Community Foundation (LCF) convened the Vision SoHo Alliance, a partnership of six non-profit housing developers: Indwell Community Homes, Zerin Development Corporation, Homes Unlimited (London) Inc., Chelsea Green Home Society, London Affordable Housing Foundation, and Residenza Affordable Housing. “With a single vision and concept, the member organizations agreed to develop their individual projects, respecting the SoHo Development and Concept Plan while creating unique but complementary housing developments that respect the diverse SoHo neighbourhood,” Ross says. Bringing the project’s vision to life was an exercise in balance and co-ordination. “The first stage was helping to craft a vision for the entire site,” says Tim Wickens, principal with Nicholson Sheffield Architects. “Much of this effort took place during the COVID lockdowns, so client consultations looked like the opening of The Brady Bunch television show. There were typically at least 30 but sometimes as many as 40 people online at any one time.” Village SoHo sits on land previously used by the old Victoria Hospital, and the development includes two remaining buildings (War Memorial Children’s Hospital and the Health Services Building) that were renovated and restored to pay tribute to the site’s history of caring for people. The early design concept, framed by the scale and location of the two remaining heritage buildings, created six parcels on the main block for mid-rise buildings that address the surrounding streets in a traditional way with individual townhouse entrances and stepped massing to address the urban context appropriately.

The east site frames the development with a tower form, which steps down to a contextually appropriate height at Hill Street and continues the theme of small-scale, street-focused townhouse entrances. Combined, seven buildings deliver approximately 685 units, with more than 2,600 square metres of outdoor amenity space, 500 square metres of commercial space, and a planned public park. Stage two required balancing the individual needs and identities of the non-profit clients against the shared desire to create a sense of community and the practical demands of sharing a large underground parking garage as the foundation for four of the five new buildings. “To bring the buildings together, we proposed that they would be primarily clad in a variety of clay masonry, but they would all share a masonry block, closely matching the Indiana limestone you can see in the two existing heritage buildings,” Wickens says. This material connects all five new buildings, used as a base for upper floors, and landscape enclosures for gardens and private terraces. The buildings have a strong sense of connection both aesthetically and functionally. Each building has a large, transparent public-facing lobby framed and sheltered by a deep overhang and/or canopy. The four buildings on the west block have outdoor courtyards, linked to each other and the public park by a network of pedestrian pathways. The courtyards are directly connected to ground-floor indoor common activity spaces, complementing barrier-free and accessible public space in the park. Each building also employs highenergy-efficient design, exceeding building code and national energy code requirements with thermally broken connections for masonry and lightweight cladding, high-performance windows and glazing, high-efficiency mechanical systems, LED lighting, occupancy sensors, and window coverings for all openings. The four buildings on the west block have extensive rooftop solar arrays. From a construction standpoint, Albert Frija, senior project manager, Southside Construction, says the four buildings his company completed are similarly constructed in that they all have concrete shafts, structural steel, block bearing walls, precast floors, light gauge exterior steel stud walls, spray foam throughout exterior walls with brick veneer, and metal siding. Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) was used on the roof with tapered roof insulation to the drains. S EP T EM B ER 2026

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To optimize the parking and apartment efficiency, precast concrete planks were used for floors and the primary horizontal structure. Large structural spans minimized vertical structural support locations and maximized interior space for vehicles below grade and people above. Constructing four buildings on one site simultaneously, while also constructing an underground parking structure, was challenging. “The size of the site required two overhead cranes,” Frija says. “The location of the cranes was essential to ensure each building had the crane time it required to maintain the construction schedule. We had to ensure the precast installation was only happening on one building per week as the second crane was lifting for all other trades to keep the job moving forward. Having no downtime with any trades was essential.” Cutting a road through an already tight site posed difficulties. “All of the exterior masonry and steel siding work still had to be completed at the Homes, Chelsea, and LAHF buildings under the suspended slab areas due to load restrictions,” Frija says. “We had to waterproof the suspended

slabs over the parking garage between buildings prior to starting the exterior concrete and brick piers and concrete planters. Site grading started for the roadway so curbs, sidewalks, and asphalt could be completed for the fire route road while still working on finishes in all the buildings and parking garage at once.”

Yet, Vision SoHo, now Village SoHo, is a success. “That’s due to the power of collaboration that saw six non-profit organizations work collectively toward a common goal and achieve something no single organization could,” says Greg Playford, a former LCF board chair and current member of LCF’s volunteer Housing Action Committee. A

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INTRAURBAN SOUTHLANDS by LAURIE JONES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ARCHITECTURAL + AERIAL VISUAL MEDIA GROUP/COURTESY PC URBAN

or many reasons, the development of IntraUrban Southlands complex has brought a breath of fresh air to the southwest neighbourhood of Vancouver, B.C. On a footprint that had once been home to a collection of old shipping containers rented out for storage, is now a stylish set of three buildings, each designed and tailored for long-term strata ownership for business or personal use. Kana Kobayashi, marketing and sales manager for developer PC Urban, says the transition to the new project and unit sales started in May 2023, after the site had gone through remediation and repurposing for the new type of clients. “We have 32 units – 20 available for sale for both consumers and business people, and occupancy started in March 2026. For example, so far, we have an arborist, a landscaping company, a car showroom, an advanced medical service device manufacturer, and some people are even doing wine storage,” she explains. Units vary in size from 2,483 to 7,878 square feet, and some have warehouse clear ceiling heights, recommended for up to 28 feet. B2 building’s lower units have 13-foot ceiling heights with 10-foot by 10-foot grade-level loading doors. Some have a built-in enclosed concrete mezzanine with a rough-in for plumbing. ‘The majority of the units have skylights, with the exception of the lower-level units in Building Two,” she explains. One aspect that sets PC Urban apart from standard warehousing is local artwork featured on the street-facing side of Building Two. “We try to support communities IntraUrban Southlands

and engage local artists, so we had First Nations artist Thomas Cannell create the three pieces of art for the Southlands project” The precast construction method was unique in itself, further adding to the modern design of IntraUrban Southlands. “Each of the concrete slab walls is approximately 13-feet wide and was cast in the Fraser Valley, outside of Vancouver,” says James Bligh, associate architect at Proscenium Architecture. “A flatbed truck was specially designed to carry each one to the site, and it was amazing to see them lifted into place. The entire complex went up quickly. Every piece was made exactly to size, and it all fit together perfectly.” Bligh explains that in order to minimize repetition in a warehouse concept, they tried to introduce some rhythm to the buildings and added materials that looked like natural products. “We used as much glass as we could, and the wood-looking soffits added a softer appearance. When the developer was marketing the units, they built a showroom in one of the suites that had a kitchenette, and they added some extra finishes to demonstrate that every suite could have the personality of the tenant.” He adds that although some owners have signage up already for their businesses, not all of the units will be public facing. The units have been sectioned off, with Building One being for manufacturing wholesale, but the basement of Building Two and the east side of Building Three are primarily for storage. “The units that have more natural light are the ones where you

might be expecting people to be using and occupying more frequently.” Peter Templeton, project manager for Ventana Construction Corp., says the polished concrete floors are a classic style that would suit a variety of users, and the washroom options that include showers are also beneficial for tenants with manufacturing businesses, or owners who like to bike to work. The mezzanine space can be used for office or storage needs. “The variety of uses so far

LOCATION: 8680, 8690, 8710 Barnard Street, Vancouver, B.C. OWNER/DEVELOPER PC Urban ARCHITECT Proscenium Architecture + Interiors GENERAL CONTRACTOR Ventana Construction Corp. STRUCTURAL CONSULTANT Krahn Engineering Ltd. MECHANICAL CONSULTANT Bycar Engineering Ltd. ELECTRICAL CONSULTANT Nemetz (S/A) & Associates Ltd. CIVIL CONSULTANT Aplin & Martin Consultants LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT Durante Kreuk Ltd. TOTAL SIZE 120,000 square feet TOTAL COST $31 million

has been interesting, from businesses to retired people who want to store classic cars,” he says. Landscaping on both the east and west sides of the buildings help the project blend into the established area. Templeton adds that the units that are facing Barnard Street have extra glazing, with floor-to-ceiling windows to public areas. “Other units in the building have windows in the upper sections that provide good light to the interior spaces.” A S EP T EM B ER 2026

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