
Grandview Heights Aquatic Centre | Surrey, B.C.
Grandview Heights Aquatic Center has plenty of water, with a FINA-standard 50-yard lap pool capable of hosting regional, national and international swimming and diving competitions, as well as a leisure pool and two hot tubs. But it’s what stretches above these surfaces that garnered the greatest attention from judges.
The world’s longest-span timber catenary roof allowed for the clear spans required for pools while allowing for a very shallow structure, reducing the building volume and its material and energy costs. The undulating roof rises high enough to accommodate an Olympic diving platform on one end and a waterslide on the other in a way that one judge said, “energizes a typical competitive natatorium.
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Judges' Comments:
“The undulating and warped ceiling forms define the two different pool areas within this dynamic aquatics center.” — Philip Laird
“The design rests on a highly sculptural building section and the definition of a structurally innovative technology. Extensive glazing complements this bold sculpture.” — Jeff Penner
“Dramatic wood structure threads its way through the length of this large facility, unifying it. Wonderful and welcoming transparency.” — Dave Larson
Architect of Record:
HCMA Architecture + Design | Vancouver, B.C.
Cost: $46 million (Canadian)
Square Footage: 94,180
Funded By: Government funds
Major Facility Components: 50-meter lap pool with diving platforms, leisure pool, hot tubs, sauna, fitness center

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