Diamond Schmitt Architects Inc.Stantec
Size4,180 square metres
OwnerThompson Rivers University
Structural EngineerFast + Epp
Wood SupplierStructureCraft
Structural systemsPost-and-beam
Project materialsGlue-laminated timberPlywood
SpeciesWestern red cedar
Located amid rolling grasslands above the confluence of the North and South Thompson Rivers in the south-central region of the province, this addition houses the university’s law school.
To meet a tight summer schedule, the panelized roof structure was prefabricated off-site from glue-laminated timber (glulam) beams, wood joists and plywood sheathing. It was installed in only seven weeks, with the panels locking into place like puzzle pieces. Exterior soffits are finished in a smooth western red cedar cladding, making the sweeping serpentine roof appear like a floating ribbon of wood above the south-facing glass curtain wall.
Its lighter wood hybrid design has the added benefit of minimizing the additional load on the original 1960s structure, transforming an otherwise forgettable low-rise building into a campus focal point.
A south wing comprises teaching spaces and lecture halls, while the north wing houses the law library and faculty offices. Expansive interior glazing of the double-height atrium creates transparency and sightlines between the lobby and the library reading room. A sculptural spiral staircase complements the design—its top-floor landing accommodates a wraparound study counter with mountain views, and doubles as a panoramic venue for informal gatherings.
An altogether modern, flexible design that can shift with programming and student population changes, this is a law school ready for the future.
“This reinvention of Old Main is an important expression of TRU’s vision for the future. TRU’s first graduating class of law students and each subsequent graduate will carry a tremendous sense of this place with them as they move forward with their careers.” ALAN SHAVER – PRESIDENT THOMPSON RIVERS UNIVERSITY
“This reinvention of Old Main is an important expression of TRU’s vision for the future. TRU’s first graduating class of law students and each subsequent graduate will carry a tremendous sense of this place with them as they move forward with their careers.”
