College of the Rockies Kootenay Centre South Entrance Expansion
The expansion creates four hi-tech classrooms, a student lounge and offices on the lower level; and a new reception area and grand foyer space on the main level serving as the main entrance, student lounge, and gathering space. The project also consists of major renovations around the existing atrium and south wing to accommodate relocated student services, financial aid and admissions/registration to the “front-of-house.”
The new south entrance expansion’s visitor arrival point is defined by a new, landscaped plaza that creates an iconic, clearly defined main entry – the interior of which is a comfortable and welcoming focal point and central hub for the college and the broader community. The extensive use of wood within the project responds to the community context, local resources and the close cultural ties between the College and the Ktunaxa First Nations. Featuring large arched-wood beams, native plants surrounding a “creek bed” for channeling stormwater, and a living green wall on one side of the entrance hall, the project seamlessly blends elements of First Nations culture with the latest in sustainable design features. The project is LEED® certified.
Project Stats
- Client: College of the Rockies
- Location: Cranbrook, BC
- Size: 2,200 sq.m.
- Project Type: Expansion / Addition
- Project Delivery: Construction Management