Announcements July 3, 2024

Two of Our Projects Win National RAIC Awards for Architecture and Urban Design

Congratulations to our clients and project teams behind the Simon Fraser University Stadium and Skeena Terrace projects for winning prestigious awards from the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC).

SFU Stadium received a Governor General’s Medal in Architecture, celebrating outstanding design in recently built Canadian projects, while Skeena Terrace was honoured with a National Urban Design Award, recognizing the achievements of interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary projects in creating places that enhance the quality of life in Canadian communities.

“We’re honored that two of our projects have received exceptional recognition for their respective efforts,” says Derek Newby, the managing director of our Vancouver and Calgary studios. “We owe a debt of gratitude to our clients, whose vision and leadership made this possible, and whose commitment to beautiful spaces that enhance human life is a core value we share.”

Here’s a look at the winning projects:

Simon Fraser University Stadium

Simon Fraser University Stadium
Burnaby, British Columbia

We designed the SFU Stadium to create a new type of public space on campus. On event days, it is a performance venue that supports a range of viewing experiences, including formal seating for those who want to focus on the game as well as areas for socializing. Outside of event days, it becomes a south-facing outdoor seating area to view athletic or cultural events, supporting building community on campus.

“The impact of the stadium at SFU has amplified enthusiasm for participating in athletic and recreational programs at SFU,” says Gerald Gongos, SFU Campus Planner. “People of all ages appreciate the interaction between spectators and participants especially as the facility encourages communities to come together. Throughout the year we witness the excitement this facility has brought into being. It is a testament to the expression, build it and they will come (play and enjoy).”

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The primary design element is the cantilevered roof canopy over the centre section of seats. To emphasize the viewing experience for the spectators, the structure was deliberately minimized, and all services are integrated into the canopy. The intent is to make the canopy as thin as possible to create the impression that the expansive cantilever floats above the seats. With unobstructed views out to the field and into the stands, our design creates a magical experience for both spectator and athlete.

The floating canopy, press box and variety of seating and gathering options create an opportunity for community-building on campus.

“SFU Stadium is a good reminder that we are in need of projects that support our public life,” says Max Richter, project lead. “Investment in public space and the public realm is more important now than it ever has been. We need spaces where people can connect, be inspired, and build a sense of community.”

Skeena Terrace

Skeena Terrace
Vancouver, British Columbia

Skeena Terrace is home to a diverse community on 4.4 hectares in Vancouver and includes a terracing landscape designed by Cornelia Hahn Oberlander, but its dated 1960s-era buildings require extensive repairs. The community plan to revitalize Skeena Terrace protects and enhances the site’s urban forest, while planning for new buildings that significantly increases the supply and diversity of affordable rental housing on the site. The plan envisages an equitable community with 1,930 new units, 60% of which will be family-oriented, within a 10-minute walk of Rupert Skytrain Station.

In the new development, a series of communal outdoor courtyards are sited around the existing open spaces and significant tree groves. These “neighbourhood rooms” are connected through a greenway and path network that privileges active mobility and accessibility.

The Skeena Terrace Community Plan receiving such a prestigious award is a testament to the remarkable collaboration between an amazing team of community-minded designers, BC Housing, and the City of Vancouver. It reflects our shared commitment to fostering sustainable, affordable, inclusive, and thriving communities.

Sheryl Peters, Provincial Director of Redevelopment, BC Housing

“Skeena Terrace exemplifies how a site driven approach to recreating the urban fabric can address climate resiliency, community building, and inclusion all while ensuring an existing sense of place and community remain intact and are enhanced,” says Jason LeBlanc, director of urban design for our Vancouver and Calgary studios.

The plaza opens to the community center and school directly across the street, creating a welcoming entry point to the site and a focal point of activity for the local community.

Congratulations, again, to our clients and project teams!

Two of Our Projects Win National RAIC Awards for Architecture and Urban Design

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