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Exterior daytime view of Gibsons RCMP Facility showing three natural western red cedar posts supporting the overhanging wood portico roof

Gibsons RCMP facility

Location: Gibsons, B.C.
Architects:

Mobius Architecture
RBM Architecture

Completion: 2012
Photo credit: Alan Burns Photography

Size
470 square metres

Project materials
Decking
Glue-laminated timber (Glulam)
Siding
Solid-sawn heavy timber

Owner
Town of Gibsons

Structural Engineer
Weiler Smith Bowers

Structural systems
Low rise
Passive House / High performance
Post + beam
Prefabricated

A building reflective of the community it serves

The design of the Gibsons Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) facility is intended to reflect the character of the Town of Gibsons. The extensive use of wood makes the building warm and inviting, and the large glazed areas present an open and transparent façade to the public. Local craftspeople sourced the western red cedar posts that form the inviting portico at the entrance to the building, a symbol of community collaboration.

Quick and economical building system

Located on a prominent site planned for a new town centre, close to the Gibsons and District Community Centre and Sunnybrook Mall, the building gives the RCMP greatly increased visibility in the community, as well as quicker access to the highway.

The Wood First policy adopted by the Town of Gibsons is integrated into all aspects of the structure and exterior finishing. Wood provided a quick and economical building system that met the budget and scheduling constraints while making use of local materials and employing local tradespeople. Wood was considered the appropriate choice for both the building structure and exoskeleton because it is a renewable resource. Wood affected by the mountain pine beetle was used for the structural roof decking that, along with the glulam roof beams, was left exposed to some interior rooms. The warm wood complements the bright colours of the accent walls.

Not your old institutional building

The new detachment is a LEED Silver certified building, which means it is highly energy efficient. The building is heated by a standalone geothermal utility. The building also features a green roof covered in vegetation.

On the east elevation, three natural western red cedar posts support the overhanging wood portico roof. Local craftspeople sourced the posts, symbolizing the cooperation between RCMP, the Town of Gibsons and the community. There are also accent logs incorporated into the perimeter of the building and the signage.

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