Dynamic activity at the Thompson Rivers University & Our First U Tube Video! - September 7th 2010
JEWEL OF THOMPSON RIVERS UNIVERSITY An unusual project (managed by VanBots Construction) is currently under construction at the growing Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops BC, where in the spring of 2010 local Log and Timber producer Nicola LogWorks installed the timber and log components on the assembly hall at the House of Learning The roof system –designed by Jeff Gravistin of David Nairne & Associates and Jarle Lovlin of Diamond & Schmitt Architects and engineered by Fast and Epp Structural Engineers (of the Richmond Oval) marries the clean dimensional appeal of glue-laminations and the character of rustic pine beetle killed logs. Nicola LogWorks undertook the log production components of this project as well as the installation of the massive glu-lam timbers from Structurelam Products, and the positioning of the pine beetle roof panels. To view a video of this dynamic time of activity go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1bZhvjY9qBk The design parameters of the project were governed by LEEDs criteria for green building and the new “Wood First” policy for government and public structures. (If possible, feature wood rather than mainstream concrete and steel). The structure will become the main focal point and centerpiece of the University. Inspired by the traditional “Keek-wili” pit houses of the interior tribes, the completed building will feature a sod roof, and log roof panels consisting of 492 beetle–killed pine logs.
