Douglas border crossing (Tenant Improvement)

Douglas Border Crossing is known as western Canada’s busiest land border crossings and is recognized as one of the most important gateways between Canada and the United States. The existing facility was outdated, completely undersized and not being able to accommodate the new post 9/11 security and technology requirements coming to place as well as increased car traffic. The main challenges with the program were that the border needed to be operational during the construction which required complicated multiphase approach. Temporary building was constructed as first phase, then existing building selectively demolished and   new construction initiated.

The design intent of new Border crossing facility was to create a visual landmark for all visitors and residents entering Canada. It was also intended to showcase some of the best and most innovative sustainable design practices and construction techniques from the West Coast of Canada.

These modern Architectural methods and systems incorporated:
–  transparency and natural lighting through extensive glazing and double volume interior space
–  west coast wood through expressive Glue laminated  structural array facing the main traffic which resulting in highly recognizable facility
–  exposed Glue laminated  structural columns and beams supporting the main entry canopy covered completely with photovoltaic panels  – the largers PV installation for western canada
–  geothermal heating and cooling with  ground water heat pump, heat recovery  mechanical system
–  40% reduction of energy consumption
–  natural ventilation thru mechanically controlled louvers in the central atrium
–  pine beetle reused lumber incorporated into exterior cladding materials, interior soffits and ceilings
–  recycled materials and reuse of some of the existing stone as cladding for the entry waterfall
–  provisions for natural light for all work areas
–  minimize sun heat gain and loss trough thermo massing
–  storm water retention and biofiltration on site paved and impervious surface reduction

Finally the facility successfully incorporated all CBSA & CRA post 9/11,  post disaster security requirements and is welcoming over one and a half million vehicles every year.

client
PWGSC – public works and government cervices canada
CBSA canada border security agency
CRA  canada revenue agency

role
project director /  senior associate with Bunting Coady Architects (who merged with B+H in December 2010)

sustainable design
– Targeted.
– CBIP certification.
– LEED silver.

awards
Consulting Engineers of British Columbia Engineering Excellence Award of Merit
Wood Design Award (Awarded to Bunting Coady Architects who merged with B+H in December 2010)

Location
Surrey/White Rock, BC

Categories
Mixed Use / Commercial / Offices