Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/1521495
J U N E 2 0 2 4 | 75 Student Residence Kelowna – Okanagan College R EN D ER I N G CO U RT E S Y G EC A RC H I T EC T U R E College alumnus hailing from the Lower Similkameen Band, has adorned the interior entrance with story pole designs, cultivating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Mass Timber construction is uti- lized for the Club and Play room, visible from KLO Road. The inclusion of large windows throughout individual suites, multi-purpose spaces, club room, and play room seamlessly connect interior and exterior spaces, offering ample daylight, panoramic views, and access to fresh air through operable windows. A variety of common amenity spaces cater to diverse activities and needs of the residents. Each floor features a cen- tral multi-purpose area adjacent to the elevator core, accommodating various activity levels, whether it be quiet study or lively gatherings. Sustainability was a central focus throughout the project. Not only was the facility designed to comply with BC Energy Step Code Step 4, but it also aimed to reduce the embodied carbon intensity associated with its structural design, aligning with the College's goal for carbon neutrality. The design- builder utilized the SE2050 Embodied Carbon Estimator Tool to estimate the embodied carbon in the building's structural components. The mechanical systems selected for the building play a significant role in reducing energy consumption and lowering greenhouse gas emis- sions. Air heat pumps are utilized in both the suite terminal units and the central ventilation unit, allowing the building to operate almost entirely on electricity, with backup gas heat for ventilation during lower ambient temperatures. This comprehensive approach to sustainability ensures the facility operates efficiently, while min- imizing its environmental impact. GEC Architecture emphasize that human connection is a central theme both inside and outside the residence. "By prioritizing connection both indoor and outdoors, we have not only provided essential housing but also cultivated a vibrant community space where students can thrive and feel wel- comed." The design heavily emphasizes creating numerous gathering spaces for students, including a celebration space, an area dedicated to a 'talking circle', a garden featuring native plants of the Okanagan region, and outdoor cooking amenities. By placing the cele- bration space at the heart of the talking circle, the aim is to create an inclusive gathering place for everyone. Anne Kang, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Training, encapsulates the project by stating: "Together with Okanagan College, we are investing in student housing that will benefit generations of learners who can focus on their studies without worrying about where they will live. We are working diligently to deliver 8,000 new student housing spaces on campuses throughout B.C. by 2028, and to date, we have more than 6,800 new spaces open or underway throughout the province." A LOCATION 860 KLO Road, Kelowna, B.C. OWNER /DEVELOPER Okanagan College ARCHITECT GEC Architecture DESIGN BUILD CONTR ACTOR Bird Construction STRUCTUR AL CONSULTANT RJC Engineers MECHANICAL CONSULTANT AME Consulting Group Ltd. ELECTRICAL CONSULTANT Smith + Andersen L ANDSCAPE ARCHITECT WSP TOTAL COST $75 million Uniquely suited to run seamlessly alongside you. If you don't stop, neither do we; 24/7 support to keep you running. We run together. At Kimco, people come first. For over 40 years, we've made buildings safer and more efficient across BC. Our Kelowna head office and branches in Penticton and Cranbrook serve the Interior and Kootenay regions. We integrate all building systems and our crew excels in recommending, installing, and maintaining equipment. Celebrate with us and experience the difference of working with a people-first company. Celebrating 40 Years of Putting People First Access and Lighting Control Roll Shutter Automation Wifi Occupancy Monitoring Building and Energy Management Software System Recommissioning Services include: Leak Detection and Monitoring Temperature Measurement and Face Recognition Variable Frequency Drives Gas Detection What would you like to achieve? Explore how Kimco can help: 250-491-2282 | KimcoControls.ca Cool, Calm, Collected Commercial HVAC—friendly, local, and 24/7 support. Smarter Buildings For Good BC Interior's building automation and integration leader. Keeping Your Lights Commercial and residential electrical service/maintenance.