Size1,291 square metres
Structural EngineerDavid Nairne + Associates Ltd.
OwnerProphet River First Nation
Engineered Wood FabricatorMercer Mass Timber LLC
Structural SystemsLow risePost + beam
Project MaterialsDeckingGlue-laminated timber (Glulam)Plywood
To showcase this culturally significant multiplex’s dramatic wood structure, a fully glazed atrium extends the entire length of the building—filling the interior with abundant natural light during the day and giving the exterior an inviting auburn glow at night.
The multiplex, located along the Alaska Highway south of Fort Nelson, British Columbia (B.C.), provides administrative facilities, council chambers, a health centre, an Elders’ lounge and a community centre for the Prophet River First Nation.
The building responds to its geographic and cultural context, with an emphasis on the use of local, low maintenance materials (most notably wood), natural light and other environmental design strategies including energy efficient heating and ventilation systems.
Its primary structure, a Douglas-fir glulam post-and-beam design, is offset in plan; the connecting roof beams form a rhythmic triangular pattern the entire length of the building. Between the beams, exposed tongue-and-groove Douglas-fir roof decking envelopes the interior with warmth.
The ‘butterfly’ form of the roof retains snow inside the central low point along its spine, adding a layer of insulation and improving energy performance during the winter.
The construction of the facility involved community members of the Prophet River First Nation, strengthening community ties and reinforcing the region’s tradition of building with wood. The interior of the building features decorative wood finishes and the wood structure and Douglas-fir roof decking are left exposed.
The most striking feature of the project is a fully glazed atrium that extends the entire length of the building, and faces the principal approach road. With its abundant natural light and dramatic wood structure, this atrium makes a welcoming gesture to patrons and visitors, while providing direct access to the three main program areas.
In the gymnasium, Douglas-fir plywood is used on the walls and Douglas-fir boards are used on the ceiling to provide a robust and durable finish for sporting activities and a warm and welcoming feel for feasts and other community events.
