Developing an Integrated Design Approach for an Infrastructure Project: A Case Study from BCIT’s SCIR Project 

BCIT’s South Campus Infrastructure Renewal Project is a complex initiative that combines major updates to underground infrastructure with upgrades to the public realm that enhance landscaping, accessibility, and sustainability. 

The aim of the project is to prepare the Burnaby Campus for future development by addressing critical infrastructure needs, the replacement of utility systems, and realignment of utility corridors, in a way that integrates with future developments such as the daylighted Guichon Creek. 

This Living Labs Lecture will explore the integrated design process for this project. Presenters from BCIT’s Campus Planning and Facilities team will join the architects working on the project to discuss how priorities for the long-term development of the campus, like stormwater management, and the restoration of Guichon Creek, inform the design. The lecture will also look at how to build a multi-disciplinary team to solve the complex engineering and architectural challenges of a project like SCIR. 

Presenters: 

• Nick Foster, Principal, Omb 
• Chris Phillips, Founding Principal, PFS Studio 
• Joe Cosh, Director Facilities Improvements, BCIT 
• Chris Forrest, Campus Architect, BCIT 

OMB 

The office of mcfarlane biggar architects + designers (omb) is an award-winning, full-service design firm based in Vancouver and Victoria. The practice focuses on architecture and interior design, informed by deep interests in responsive urban design, thoughtful master-planning, and meaningful place-making. 

omb’s studio culture harnesses the creative energy of over 50 multi-disciplinary design professionals under the guidance of a seasoned leadership team. Our collective curiosity and wide-ranging interests enrich collaborative design exploration, and form the foundation of memorable and enduring built environments delivered with sensitivity and technical prowess 

PFS Studio 

For over three decades, PFS Studio has been at the forefront of planning, urban design, and landscape architecture in Canada and internationally. Founded in 1993 by Chris Phillips, Marta Farevaag and Greg Smallenberg as Phillips Farevaag Smallenberg, the firm has since grown, evolved and gained international recognition for innovative city-building and design excellence. 

We are a multi-city practice operating from our studios in both Vancouver and Toronto. At the helm of PFS Studio are seven Principals, each bringing a unique blend of expertise, vision and leadership to the table. Supported by a team of highly experienced Associates and Designers, every project we do is shepherded with imaginative insight, technical precision, strong communication and a collaborative spirit.