This 13,700 square foot terminal building for cruise ships is located at the Nanaimo Assembly Wharf in Nanaimo, British Columbia. The building has a large welcome centre, also used as a multi-purpose hall, facilities for the Canadian Border Services Agency and offices for the Nanaimo Port Authority.
The linear lines and use of materials is a very contemporary approach to this architecture, yet it seems to fit nicely into its surroundings, mirroring the water and landscapes off its large floor to ceiling glass walls. The angled wood beams and curved posts create a softness to this very structured form.
"...The building site was formerly used for the processing and storage of the wood products that were the lifeblood for the region. A connection is made to the past by employing a variety of wood products including large curved glulam columns and beams, interior and exterior wood screens, and stratified timber panels. These materials echo the region’s rich natural resource and make the main hall reminiscent of a giant ship’s hull. Large glass walls open up the hall to panoramic views of the Nanaimo harbour.
The building employs as a passive solar scheme, where sunlight enters through the extensive glazing, warms the stone floor and heat is slowly released and circulated before exiting through louvers at the top of the building.
Working with a local artist, Noel Brown, a custom artwork was commissioned and printed onto a large roll-screen. This screen can be raised or lowered to alter the configuration of the main hall. A native plant garden, designed by landscape architect Nancy Mackin, is positioned between the building and the water’s edge. Light bounces off a linear water feature and is reflected up into the main hall. ..."
- Architects
Photography by HA Photography, Mark Corbett and Ben Checkwitch
We are especially proud to feature this building since many of us here at Jenny Martin Design had the honour of being taught by David Poiron while attending Vancouver Island University.
Checkwitch Poiron Architects is a partnership of two award winning firms:
If you are in the area of Nanaimo, be sure to check it out!
I would like to appreciate Jenny Martin Design and creativity and work quality , thanks for sharing , this work is inspirational for many young designers.
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