Okanagan College Health Sciences Centre

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The new 2,800 m2 (30,000 ft2) Health Sciences Centre is an integrated learning facility that includes programs such as early childhood education, practical nursing, pharmacy technician and human service work. The design of the facility prioritizes the learner through the inclusion of the newest technologies, integrated student support spaces and effective learning and teaching spaces. The design aesthetics of the building were developed through a holistic and collaborative approach, which included engagement from representatives of the College’s Indigenous Committee and members of the Westbank First Nation. The building has a strong focus on sustainability and occupant wellness. Pursuing LEED® Gold, the Zero Carbon Building Standard, and Silver certification in the WELL Education Pilot Program, these lofty goals will help the College reduce its greenhouse carbon emissions and deferred maintenance costs. The location of this facility is on a previous landfill site that sits below the water table, requiring deployment of an extensive well point dewatering system. The glue-laminated clerestory structure and cross laminated timber panels, as well as the facility’s interior finishes including millwork, veneers, guardrails and artwork, were prefabricated offsite prior to installation.

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