Gibsons and Area Community Centre

Construction Cost: $11 million (Canadian)
Area / Square Feet: 58,900
Occupancy Date: March 2008

The Gibsons and Area Community Centre project was placed on a fast track to effectively manage unpredictable and escalating construction costs. The resulting concrete facility houses an NHL-size ice arena, plus various recreation and programming elements.

The main entrance is defined by a dramatic V-shaped roof and covered entry with views of playing fields and mountains. The mass of the arena begins below street level, thereby fitting in with the heights of neighboring low-rise townhouses. The reception area is organized around a “living room” concept, with a large stone fireplace and comfortable seating serving as focal points. From this central location, visitors can easily view various recreational activities.

Key program features include a multipurpose room that can be divided into three separate spaces and connects directly to the arena concourse, making for an ideal space to host receptions and banquets during games and tournaments. The arena accommodates 400 spectators, and clerestory windows on the north side let in natural light.

Other programming spaces come equipped with kitchen facilities and direct connections to the outdoors. The youth center opens out to a half-court basketball area with an overhead roll-up door. Two racquetball courts (one that can be converted for squash) and a small fitness center round out the facility’s offerings.