News & Events
Arthur Erickson: Centenary Celebration of a Vancouver Island and Global Legacy
A Centenary Celebration of a Vancouver Island and Global Legacy
This celebratory public evening will feature an illustrated keynote presentation by architectural writer and critic Trevor Boddy titled “Why Arthur Erickson Matters”. This will be followed by a panel discussion in which Erickson’s architectural and urban planning projects on Vancouver Island will be evaluated. The importance and influence this great practitioner can offer to architecture, and particularly to younger architects, will be considered. A mounted photographic display of these Vancouver Island projects will accompany the evening’s proceedings.
Please join us for this feature winter seasonal community gathering to review and to honor both the international and the local work of a very distinguished Canadian architect, and to share thoughts on the influences of an exceptional architectural legacy.
Note that this session will be video recorded for broadcasting by the Rogers Community TV programming.
Keynote Presenter:
Trevor Boddy – Arthur Erickson writer and architecture critic.
Panelists:
Geoffrey Erickson – Studio Erickson, Arthur Erickson Foundation.
Steven Wang – Architect, author.
“The RAIC gratefully acknowledges the sponsorship and generous financial contribution of CHARD Development in support of this event”
Tickets available here.
Architecture Without Borders Polish-Canadian Architectural Exhibition
The Architecture Without Borders – Polish-Canadian Architectural Exhibition – Vancouver 2024/25 exhibition highlights the significant contribution of Polish specialists to the development of architecture in the province of British Columbia. It was prepared with numerous architects of Polish descent working and designing here in British Columbia and around the world.
The exhibition showcases both the historical achievements and contemporary works of architectural bureaus in Vancouver, including examples of buildings, architectural concepts, and engineering solutions that have resulted from the collaboration between Polish and Canadian professionals. It also serves as a tribute to Mr. Bogusław (Bogue) Babicki, on the 100th anniversary of his birth. Mr. Babicki was an honorary member of the Architectural Institute of British Columbia. Showing his works emphasizes his substantial contribution to the architectural landscape of Vancouver.
The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada has bestowed honorary patronage upon the exhibition, while the Architecture Foundation of British Columbia has extended its support to our initiative. Owing to the collaboration of numerous esteemed partners, the exhibition features distinguished architectural projects from British Columbia, including competition entries recognized both in Canada and internationally.
Architecture Without Borders is a testament to the achievements of Polish specialists and the promotion of projects that connect the shared heritage of their creators.
AFBC Architectural Achievement Awards
The AFBC will be hosting the Architectural Achievement Awards for the first time this November to celebrate exemplary individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of architecture.
Award categories include the new Community Stewardship Award, the Barbara Dalrymple Memorial Award for Community Service, and the Lifetime Achievement Award.
We welcome everyone to join us for this enjoyable evening aimed at making architecture accessible to all. The evening will begin with a reception with the formal program to follow.
Tickets available here.
WIA Tour: Tsleil-Waututh Nation’s Administration Building
Join Women in Architecture (WIA) for a unique opportunity to tour the Tsleil-Waututh Nation’s Administration Building in North Vancouver. This remarkable building is not only a hub for the community’s governance and administrative functions but also a reflection of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation’s values, history, and cultural heritage.
Designed with a deep respect for the land and traditional Coast Salish architectural principles, the Administration Building integrates sustainable building practices and Indigenous design elements that honor the connection between people, place, and nature.
The tour will share insights into the significance of the building for the Tsleil-Waututh people, the design process, and the Nation’s ongoing efforts toward cultural preservation and environmental stewardship. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about how the building serves as a physical manifestation of the Nation’s resilience, self-governance, and vision for the future.
🗓️ When: Monday, November 18th, 2pm - 3pm — Please arrive by 1:45pm as the tour will start promptly at 2pm
📍 Where: Tsleil-Waututh Administration Building, 3178 Alder Court, North Vancouver, BC V7H 2V6
📚 AIBC: Approved 1 Core Learning Unit (Indigenous Peoples Learning). Please note, unlike the rest of the CES program the Indigenous Peoples Learning requirement is NOT currently covered by the Canadian CES reciprocity agreement, so AIBC registrants who typically report their CES through other jurisdictions must ALSO report their Indigenous Peoples Learning credits directly to their AIBC
More info and tickets available here.
Creating a Heritage Conservation Plan
In many municipalities in BC, a Heritage Conservation Plan is a mandatory document for development permits involving a listed heritage property or for the purposes of a Heritage Revitalization Agreement, but it also represents a helpful and thorough decision-making process for owners of old buildings.
In this informative in-person workshop at Heritage Hall, heritage professional Elana Zysblat will illustrate how to create a Heritage Conservation Plan, using real case studies.
Wednesday, November 6th, 6pm- 9pm
$45 plus tax
Register at https://www.vancouverheritagefoundation.org/events/workshops-and-talks/heritage-conservation-education/
Architecture and Design Film Festival
The Architecture & Design Film Festival, celebrates the unique creative spirit that drives architecture and design. With a curated selection of films, events and panel discussions, ADFF creates an opportunity to entertain, engage and educate all types of people who are excited about architecture and design.
Take a look at the film guide to browse our upcoming films or purchase a pass if you plan on watching multiple films:
https://adffvancouver24.eventive.org/films
Maintenance and Repair of Wood Windows
Maintenance and Repair of Wood Windows
Windows are one of the key defining elements of buildings, and with proper maintenance can have a life cycle of one hundred years before needed repair or replacement. Learn how to repair common issues and perform proper maintenance with Ryan Bahris, owner and operator of Extraordinary League Contracting Ltd (EXLE).
This in-person workshop will discuss the design and construction of wood windows, and practical considerations for their conservation and maintenance.
Saturday, September 28th, 10am – 1:30pm
$75 + tax
Register at https://www.vancouverheritagefoundation.org/events/workshops-and-talks/heritage-conservation-education/
On the Boards: Andrea McLean & Imu Chan
On September 23rd, the West Coast Modern League, with Inform Interiors, presents the next instalment of the League’s popular On the Boards speaker series during the Design Vancouver Festival. Bridging the disciplines of architecture, interior design, and art in the public realm, we will be joined by Andrea McLean and Imu Chan, each presenting projects recently completed or currently underway. On the Boards is an ongoing speaker series aimed at immersing us in the creative works of our local design talent, with those who are carrying forward the fertile culture of creativity and experimentation on Canada’s west coast.
Andrea McLean is an Intern Architect AIBC and Registered Interior Designer IDIBC. She is the founder and Principal of Andrea McLean Studio, a design practice focused on residential building design, interior design, and landscape design.
Imu Chan is an Architect AIBC. He is the Principal of Imu Chan Architecture, a design practice that traverses fluidly between art and architecture with projects ranging from personal sanctuaries and gathering places to public art consultation.
URL / Link: https://westcoastmodern.org/events/on-the-boards-sept-2024/
Location: Inform Interiors, 50 Water Street, Vancouver, BC
AFBC Walking Tours
The Architecture Foundation of British Columbia is hosting a walking tour through Vancouver's downtown, highlighting key buildings and infrastructure that makes Vancouver what it is today, and discussing the role architects and planners have on building a good city.
The AFBC has been working on revamping and modernizing tours that used to be hosted through the AIBC. We want to give you a sneak peek by hosting a dry run during Design Vancouver Festival. It will be a pilot for a full program that will run weekly through the summer of 2025.
Four two-hour tours will be available, two on Saturday and two on Sunday, with the option to grab a drink together afterwards. Locations and routes to be finalized when the tickets become available.
Please note:
Please arrive 15 minutes before the start of the tour.
There will be extended walking and standing for the full duration of the tour
We ask you leave your pets and strollers at home
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult
The tour will be offered rain or shine! If we do get some liquid sunshine, rain jackets are preferred to umbrellas due to group size and navigating the sidewalks
Tickets available Sept 4th: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/afbc-downtown-walking-tours-tickets-980525858237?aff=oddtdtcreator&utm_source=eventbrite&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=post_publish&utm_content=shortLinkNewEmail
P4A - Party for Architects
Socialize with fellow architects and designers, enjoy music and beer, and attend a special presentation by local designers &Daughters. Everyone welcome! All ages. Wheelchair accessible. Please RSVP as space is limited, and please be kind to cancel your tickets if you will not be able to attend. Thank you!
This event is sold out.
AFBC Walking Tours
The Architecture Foundation of British Columbia is hosting a walking tour through Vancouver's downtown, highlighting key buildings and infrastructure that makes Vancouver what it is today, and discussing the role architects and planners have on building a good city.
The AFBC has been working on revamping and modernizing tours that used to be hosted through the AIBC. We want to give you a sneak peek by hosting a dry run during Design Vancouver Festival. It will be a pilot for a full program that will run weekly through the summer of 2025.
Four two-hour tours will be available, two on Saturday and two on Sunday, with the option to grab a drink together afterwards. Locations and routes to be finalized when the tickets become available.
Please note:
Please arrive 15 minutes before the start of the tour.
There will be extended walking and standing for the full duration of the tour
We ask you leave your pets and strollers at home
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult
The tour will be offered rain or shine! If we do get some liquid sunshine, rain jackets are preferred to umbrellas due to group size and navigating the sidewalks
Tickets available Sept 4th: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/afbc-downtown-walking-tours-tickets-980525858237?aff=oddtdtcreator&utm_source=eventbrite&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=post_publish&utm_content=shortLinkNewEmail
THE LEMON DROP
The Architecture Foundation of British Columbia (AFBC) is hosting a cocktail party to start the Design Vancouver Festival off right! Join us for LEMON DROP, an evening unveiling the winning design of the AFBC's LEMONADE STAND design competition.
Holding a public design competition and enthusiastically participating in the rebranded Design Vancouver Festival fulfils an AFBC mandate to raise awareness about the value of design in the built environment through programming and advocacy.
The 40 submissions the AFBC received were playful, inventive, thoughtful and fun! The winning entry was jury selected based on its uniqueness, level of interactivity, and its consideration of budget and lifecycle.
The winning design, a mobile bar and seating area, will be built by local Vancouver custom furniture builders, Humble Object, with materials supplied by Kerrisdale Lumber and sponsored by Pacific Art Stone. Drinks will be served all evening, including the feature cocktail, Duchess Cocktail’s Lemon Drop Martini. Small bites will be served, thanks to Fisher & Paykel, who will be showcasing their outdoor kitchen and featuring a guest chef.
Special thanks to our event sponsors:
Fisher & Paykel and DCS Appliances
Humble Object
Kerrisdale Lumber
Pacific Art Stone
as well as our location sponsor:
Living Space
If you miss the LEMON DROP, the bar will be set up as a lemonade stand in front of East India Carpets / Supermarket Studio during the Armory District Studio Tour on Saturday, September 21st. The LEMONADE STAND will then be at the Interior Design Show from September 26th to the 29th.
We look forward to celebrating with you!
Tickets on sale Sept 4th : https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lemon-drop-tickets-998904228437?aff=ebemoffollowpublishemail&utm_campaign=following_published_event&ref=eemail&utm_medium=email&utm_source=eventbrite&utm_content=follow_notification
Urbanarium Studio: A sign is a Design Failure
Wednesday, September 18
6 p.m.
Urbanarium Granville Island Studio
1249 Cartwright Street
Tickets
This Urbanarium Studio will aim to "get around" standard signage thinking and co-design new environmental communications systems. There’s a big reliance on signs in cities. Talking about who makes it, who it is for and who is it missing, will help us branch out and consider creative ways to reach people where they are at.
Open to everyone! Complimentary snacks and refreshments from Granville Island Brewing. The Urbanarium Studio facilitates graphic discourse on city-making challenges through charrette-style live events. Participants watch their ideas come to life in a fun, afterwork, interactive setting that aims to inform, entertain and rapid-prototype inspired and informed ideas and design. Read more here.
Site | Light | Cadence | Space
This year marks the centenary of Canada’s pre-eminent architect Arthur Erickson. Vancouver-born and raised, Erickson developed an interest first in the arts and then in the study of architecture, leading to an eclectic career with international impact that spanned six decades and produced some of Canada’s most iconic structures. Erickson defined site, light, cadence, and space as his four first principles of architecture, elements that are each critical to the understanding of his design explorations. From these, he created some of our region’s most cherished modern buildings, from single-family residences to our most significant cultural and civic spaces.
On July 10th, join the West Coast Modern League with the West Vancouver Art Museum at The Polygon Gallery as we celebrate the centenary and the built legacy of Arthur Erickson through the lens of local designers who have revisited the famed architect’s work. Through active renewal and preservation, this group has helped to shepherd these iconic structures forward, working to safeguard their physical longevity and continued inspiration for future generations. They will share these projects with us.
Part of West Coast Modern Week, presented by the West Vancouver Art Museum.
Tickets available here: https://westcoastmodern.org/events/site-light-cadence-space/
Pink House & The Octopus Salon
On June 8th, the West Coast Modern League is hosting an exclusive opportunity to explore MA+HG’s award-winning 2020 Pink House & The Octopus, to engage in conversation and camaraderie with fellow design aficionados, and to enjoy appetizers & libations. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to catch remarks about the project from architects Marianne Amodio and Harley Grusko, as well as landscape architect Joseph Fry.
Completed in 2020, the Pink House & the Octopus stand as a gleaming example of a modern/heritage hybrid restoration with a contemporary infill befitting the historic eclecticism and multi-cultural fabric of its Vancouver neighbourhood. Designed by MA+HG Architects, with landscape by Hapa Collaborative, the project undertook to restore and modernize a century old character home while creating “Missing Middle,” multi-generational housing. A total work of art for an art-aligned owner in an artistic community, the home has been dubbed the Pink House & The Octopus for its historical reference to colour and the multi-limbed series of intersecting infill dwellings along the laneway. In 2024, the project was nominated for the prestigious Mies Crown Hall Americas Prize for Emerging Practice.
Tickets Here: https://westcoastmodern.org/events/pink-octopus-salon/
Location: To be provided to ticket holders prior to the event.
OAA Conference 2024: Housing: Pushing the Envelope
The next edition of the OAA Conference is scheduled to take place from May 22 to 24 in Niagara Falls, with the theme of Housing: Pushing the Envelope.
It will reflect the urgency and importance of addressing housing challenges in our society. With the recent recognition of adequate housing as a human right through the National Housing Strategy Act, the 2024 OAA Conference aims to bring together a diverse range of architecture experts and professionals.
This event will be hosted at the Niagara Falls Convention Centre, with the Marriott on the Falls serving as the designated host hotel.
Against the backdrop of Niagara Falls, attendees will delve into innovative ideas and solutions to design safe, inclusive, and sustainable spaces that foster community, health, and well-being. From exploring cutting-edge technologies and regenerative building principles to reimagining adaptive reuse and rethinking densities, the Conference will showcase the latest trends and best practices in creating equitable and inclusive housing. It promises to be a transformative experience, where participants can engage in meaningful conversations, expand their knowledge, and contribute to shaping the future of housing in Ontario and beyond.
A Refuge: Arthur Erickson
Presented by the West Vancouver Art Museum, in collaboration with the Arthur Erickson Foundation, this exhibition explores Arthur Erickson in the context of his own home in Point Grey, Vancouver, where he lived from 1957 to 1992. Central to this exhibition are photographs from the collection of the West Vancouver Art Museum by Selwyn Pullan of Erickson in his home and garden. Surrounded by the objects that inspired him that were collected during his extensive travels, these photos are an intimate portrait of this well-known figure at home.
The house was converted from conjoined garages: a humble structure taking up a small portion of a large lot, which accommodated a verdant, Japanese-style garden. In 1981, Erickson said: “When I moved into this house, in 1957, I was teaching architecture at the University of British Columbia and collecting pottery. The things that surrounded me were more important to me…Architecturally, this house is terrible, but it serves as a refuge, a kind of decompression chamber. The nice thing about the garden is that I started it and it’s been doing its own thing ever since."[1]
[1] Edith Iglauer, Seven Stones: A Portrait of Arthur Erickson, Architect, 1981, Harbour Publishing/University of Washington Press, pp. 30-31
Exhibit is on at the West Vancouver Art Museum from May 15 - July 20th, more info here https://westvancouverartmuseum.ca/exhibitions/refuge-arthur-erickson
RAIC Conference
The RAIC Conference on Architecture will continue to be Canada’s premier annual gathering for leaders and emerging talents in architecture and design, students, faculty, and allied professionals. It is the place for industry thought leaders to engage, strengthen our profession, and keep up to date with continuing changes in practice, from sustainability to digital transformation.
RAIC Conferences are tailored for work and educational success and feature high-quality learning sessions, including continuing education, tours, networking, and more. Participants at all career stages will take away insight, inspiration, and ideas for practical application.
The 2024 Conference Program, features high-quality learning opportunities that include interactive content, innovative ideas, and engaging discussions. Participants at all career levels will take away insights, inspiration, and ideas for practical application.
The RAIC 2024 Conference on Architecture features eight (8) streams including:
Climate Justice and Resilience, Sustainability, Adaptation and Mitigation
Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Social Justice
Health, Safety, and Accessibility
History, Heritage and Culture
Housing, Planning and Urbanism
Indigenous-Led Architecture
Innovation in Materials, Technology and Construction
The Practice and Business of Architecture
Schedule and more information available here.
McKinley Studios Commonplace Launch
McKinley Studios is hosting a launch event in Gallery McKinley at 611 Alexander to celebrate their modular project that’s been 5 years in the making, Commonplace Homes.
Thursday, May 9th, 2023
5pm - 8pm
Victoria Design Week
Design Victoria is a four-day festival celebrating the city’s growing design community. Designers and design businesses create special installations, exhibitions, events, open houses, tours and workshops.
Experience design, access creative studios that are not normally open to the public, learn more about the stories behind familiar businesses and get inspired by the design ideas and creative work being produced in the City.
The festival includes design in many forms, including architecture, ceramic, fashion, furniture, graphic, illustration, interior, lighting, landscape, product, software, urban, user experience.
More information available here.
Pecha Kucha Vancouver
PECHAKUCHA NIGHT VOL.57
MAY 8th • VANCOUVER PLAYHOUSE
Lobby doors open at 6:30; show starts at 7:30.
ASL interpretation will be available at this event.
TICKETS:
Tickets go on sale April 5th at 10am.
$23 (Incl. GST) + service fees
https://www.vtixonline.com/pechakucha-night-vol57/4224/
PRESENTERS:
Amanda Huynh & Ranee Lee - One Lovely Hour
Ami Sanyal - Creative Pulse
David Ng & Jen Sungshine - Love Intersections
Garret 'GMAN' Louie - Timebomb Trading Inc, Fortune Sound, TAIKAN, Livestock, NLA
Joella Cabalu - Documentary Filmmaker
Kim Tran - DD Mau
Lucy Yun - Lucky Lucy Creative Inc.
Nathalie De Los Santos - PilipinxPages
Paul Wong - Paul Wong Projects
Sandeep Johal - Visual Artist + Muralist
Vishal Marapon - Artist / Photographer
HOSTS:
Marianne Amodio - MA+HG
Caroline Boquist - Walrus
CITY ORGANIZER:
Becki Chan - Open Format Arts & Culture
SPONSOR:
ASL interpretation sponsored by Perkins&Will
5468796 platform.MIDDLE: Architecture for Housing the 99% Book Launch
Join us on May 14th for a special book launch for 5468796 Architecture's new book, platform.MIDDLE: Architecture for Housing the 99%.
The event will be hosted by architecture critic and writer of the book's introduction, Trevor Boddy, alongside co-authors and 5468796 co-founders Johanna Hurme and Sasa Radulovic, as well as Marianne Amodio from MA+HG Architects. They will be discussing the book, their experiences in the field of architecture, and answering audience questions.
Copies of the book will be available for sale.
Doors open at 5 pm; the talk begins at 6 pm.
AIBC Conference
The theme for AIBC Conference 2024 is “Act” – a simple yet profoundly impactful word that encompasses many meanings. Within the architectural profession, it encapsulates a range of facets of professional practice and the role of architects in the built environment:
The act of designing and building with purpose and creativity;
Taking action to address social, economic, and climate challenges;
Reacting and proactively responding to evolving societal needs and technologies;
Acting with integrity and upholding professional standards;
Adhering to the governing act in B.C., the Professional Governance Act;
and much more – all centered around the call to act.
AIBC Conference 2024 will delve into the multiple dimensions of the word “act.” The conference will explore technical actions, the art and science of architecture, as well as the thoughtful ways architectural professionals have impacted the built environment and their communities. We encourage you to bring your unique perspective to the event, where you will be both challenged and inspired to act.
For more information, visit their website.
AFBC Revery Studio Tour
Join us on April 4 from 5–9 PM to see what goes on behind the scenes at the Revery Studio in Vancouver. Drinks and snacks included.
We're back for our third year of studio tours. This time, Revery Architecture is opening their doors for a full tour of their space - work will be on display and staff will be around to talk about what they do, how they work, and what drives them. Snacks and drinks are included.
Looking forward to seeing you!
Event:
Revery Studio Tour,
Thursday April 4th, 5-9 pm
300-1706 West 1st Avenue, Vancouver BC V6J0E4
Tickets Available here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/afbc-studio-tour-revery-architecture-tickets-861852232227?aff=oddtdtcreator
Lightweight Mass Timber: Co-Design and Robotic Fabrication for Computational Wood Architecture
Lecturer: Hans Jakob Wagner from Institute of Computational Design, University of Stuttgart
Date and Time: April 2, 2024 at 6pm at the Lasserre Building on UBC Campus Room 102
Title: Lightweight Mass Timber: Co-Design and Robotic Fabrication for Computational Wood Architecture
The integration of computational design, digital engineering, and robotic fabrication methods has revolutionized the field of architecture, particularly in the realm of wood construction. By leveraging these technologies, architects and engineers can collaborate on the creation of innovative building systems that maximize performance while minimizing material usage. This has significant implications for sustainability and efficiency in construction.
This talk presents recent developments at the University of Stuttgart for the co-design of a point-supported multi-storey wood slab system. It represents a departure from conventional mass-timber slabs by enabling long spans of up to 12 meters without relying on regular grids. This flexibility opens up new possibilities for architectural design, allowing for more creative and varied spatial configurations.
This event is hosted by UBC and attendance can earn you one AIBC Learning credit.
Registration link: https://ubc.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1FcMcPids8u2D5Q
Death of an Art Form: Architectural Drafting & Pencil Sketching
“Whenever I go back to Italy and visit our house in Sant’Elia, I reflect on so many good times and the tranquility we enjoyed there as a family. Each time I return to Canada, I feel like I have left part of me there to grow old among the ruins.”
Carmen P. Naccarato
(Death of an Art Form: Architectural Drafting & Pencil Sketching)
During the pandemic, Mr. Naccarato came up with the idea of writing the manuscript for this book and chose all the images that best represent his career and artistic sketches.
In this book, Mr. Naccarrato narrates the story of his life, an Italian immigrant, who left Italy and arrived in Canada for a new life, where he became a notable architectural technologist.
About the Author
Carmen P. Naccarato is an accomplished architectural draftsman who has designed and developed buildings in Alberta, Canada. Much of his work can be found in the Edmonton area but spans across the country and into the United States as well. Originally from Italy, Mr. Naccarato moved his family to Windsor, Canada in 1954. This book is a legacy collection of his work and achievements throughout the past sixty years.
This story is not only about the life and career of Mr. Naccarato, but most importantly it is about the struggle to cope with the transition of manual drafting coming to an end and to go on with computer generated drawings for the building industry. To quote another lover of manual drafting. The thrill of vanquishing and monster sized, fire breathing design problem with nothing more than a small sharpened stick.
For more information, visit the Italian Design Map.
Build a future, not a fortune: Housing and capitalism
Jeremy McLeod of Melbourne, Australia’s Breathe Architecture will speak as part of UBC SALA’s New Directions in Housing series.
March 27, 20247 p.m.
UBC Robson Square
Local Democracy, Community Focused or Corporately Driven?
March 20, 20247 p.m.
UBC Robson Square
https://sala.ubc.ca/event/local-democracy-community-focused-or-corporately-driven/