CEI Architecture Planning Interiors, an architectural firm with extensive experience in green building design and technology, has been chosen to shape Okanagan College’s new Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Technology and Renewable Energy Conservation.

With offices in Kelowna, Vancouver and Victoria, CEI Architecture Planning Interiors has an extensive resume of diverse projects throughout British Columbia. Work by the company, or its principals, includes the UBC Faculty of Law Building, the Jack Bell Research Centre, the Herzberg Institute of Astrophysics, VANOC 2010 Headquarters, and the North Vancouver City Library.

“CEI’s experience in similar projects and the company’s grasp of the importance of what we want to achieve with this building led us to conclude that this is a partnership that will produce the best possible design. We know the outcome will be something exciting for Okanagan College and the South Okanagan,” explained Donna Lomas, regional dean for the South Okanagan-Similkameen.

“The building design has to reflect the innovative nature of the programming it will house, and must incorporate the principles of green technology and environmental responsibility. It needs to be a showcase for our commitment to students, and the communities we serve.”

The $28-million Centre of Excellence was announced in April this year, and is scheduled for completion within two years. It’s being funded through a $14-million contribution from the Federal government, $9 million from the Province and a further $5 million through fundraising undertaken by the Okanagan College Foundation. When it opens, the Centre will house about 800 more students on the campus, and almost triple the building space on campus. It is part of the federal-provincial initiative to stimulate the economy through investment in infrastructure projects.

While the timeframe is tight, extensive consultation will be a key to getting the project off on the right foot, explained Tim McLennan, a partner in CEI Architecture Planning Interiors.

“Ultimately, a building is judged by much more than its appearance.  It’s measured by the users, by the people who interact with it on a daily basis, and by the people who benefit from it.

“Getting it right through consultation and exploration is the best foundation you can have for a building,” added McLennan, who manages the company’s Okanagan presence.

Toward that end, CEI and Okanagan College will be holding a series of consultation sessions – known as charrettes – toward the end of this month in Penticton. The sessions will garner input from stakeholders on design elements and approaches for the Centre.

About CEI Planning Interiors
CEI Architecture Planning Interiors is an award-winning firm offering integrated architectural, planning and interior design consulting to clients in Canada and the United States. CEI’s team of over 90 professionals has specialized expertise in several sectors, including recreation, community and culture, health care, aviation and transportation, office and commercial, and education. 

With a process-driven approach to architectural design, CEI is a leader in community facilitation and engagement.  CEI’s work emphasizes LEED® Design and sustainable principles, with 16 LEED Accredited Professionals, two certified LEED projects and several targeted projects nearing certification.

www.ceiarchitecture.com