Xthum Kwantlen Gathering Place
For immediate release
May 2, 2013
KPU selects architects to build the new Wilson School of Design
(Metro Vancouver, BC) – Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) is proud to announce KPMB Architects of Toronto (ON) and PUBLIC Architecture and Communication of Vancouver (BC) as the successful design team selected for the architectural and interior design services for the Wilson School of Design.
Bruce Kuwabara, Partner at KPMB Architects, is one of Canada’s leading architects. He was the recipient of the RAIC Gold Medal in 2006 and was invested as an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2012. He has received public and professional acclaim as the design architect for several projects of national and international significance including: Canada's National Ballet School, the Bell Lightbox for the Toronto International Film Festival, the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa, as well as Richmond City Hall, winner of a 2002 Governor General’s Medal. Throughout his career his work has integrated architectural excellence and innovation, city building and sustainable design, raising the standards of Canadian architecture and urbanism.
Brian Wakelin, Principal at PUBLIC Architecture and Communication, is no stranger to KPU. Brian and his team most recently designed the Aboriginal Gathering Place at KPU Surrey and received the following accolades for their work on this project: 2011 Canadian Interiors Magazine Best of Canada Award, 2011 Twenty + Change Exhibit, Official Selection Award, 2010 AIBC INNOVATION AWARD, 2010 Interior Design Institute of BC ‘Best In Show’ Award, 2010 Interior Design Institute of BC Gold Winner, Public.
The Wilson School of Design will be a platform for the development of creative professionals, a ‘hub’ for design industries, a centre for advancing entrepreneurship and an economic engine for the creative sector in British Columbia.
For more information on the architect firms, please visit the sites below:
Kwantlen Polytechnic University has been serving the Metro Vancouver region for 30 years, and has opened doors to success for more than 250,000 people. Four campuses—Richmond, Surrey, Cloverdale and Langley—offer a comprehensive range of sought-after programs, including business, liberal arts, science, design, health, trades and technology, apprenticeships, horticulture, and academic and career advancement. Over 18,000 students annually have a choice from over 200 programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates and citations.
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For more information about KPU, contact:
Cara Johnson
Media Specialist
Tel: 604.598.6196
cara.johnson@kwantlen.ca