Vancouver Fast + Epp has won not one but two awards at the 2022 National Council of Structural Engineers Associations’ (NCSEA) Structural Engineering Excellence (SEE) Awards.
The SFU Stadium received the Outstanding Winner Award in the Other Structures category while the Fast + Epp Home Office Building was an award winner in the New Buildings under $30 Million category.
Each year, the NCSEA presents the SEE Awards to some of the most innovative and creative projects in the world. The SEE Awards highlight structural engineering ingenuity and incredible achievements in the profession. awards were presented in eight categories, each with an outstanding project winner.
The SFU Stadium project features a striking CLT canopy which cantilevers 16 metres, providing weather protection and unobstructed views for the spectators below. Supported by steel girders, the canopy required careful structural detailing to ensure the exposed structure was seamlessly coordinated with the design team’s vision.
The structural solution drew on local expertise trade including specialist steel and CLT fabricators based in British Columbia, contributing to the local economy. The prefabricated strategy resulted in fewer errors on site and a shorter overall construction time and minimize impact on site adjacent ‘live’ sites. The completed use of wood structure celebrates the sustainable credentials of the wood product as both a structure and a finish.
The design of the Fast + Epp Home Office is a direct reflection of the firm and embodies the notions of innovative integrated systems and biophilic design – all coming together in harmony for a truly holistic design.
The office serves as a “living laboratory” with new ideas and technologies incorporated both during construction and throughout the life of the building. With an emphasis on promoting employee wellness and productivity, the building combines the latest in sustainable design strategies as well as taking full advantage of the spectacular mountain views to the north.
