The City of New Westminster announced that təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre has been recognized by the prestigious Prix Versailles selection committee as one of the World’s Most Beautiful Sports Venues for 2024.
Announced each year at UNESCO, the Prix Versailles – the world architecture and design award – recognizes contemporary projects that leave extraordinary imprints on their living environments. The award criteria include the innovativeness, creativity, reflection of local heritage and ecological efficiency of each project.
“The City of New Westminster is incredibly honoured that təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Center has been nominated for this prestigious award. This recognition speaks to the outstanding work that went into designing a facility that reflects our commitment to inclusivity, community well-being, and dedication to environmental responsibility,” said Mayor Patrick Johnstone.
Designed by HCMA, təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre was created for people of all ages and abilities. Focusing on how communities engage in recreation today and in the future, emphasis was placed on human connection and wellness-based activities alongside traditional sporting and fitness pursuits. Over two years, more than 3,000 people, including urban Indigenous, Host Nations, multicultural groups, and an accessibility committee, participated in public and stakeholder engagement.
The facility’s inclusive design features generous circulation, high-contrast braille signage, universal washrooms, ramps, zero-entry pools, a transfer ledge in the adult hot pool, and a moveable floor in the 50m pool.
“To see təməsew̓txʷ on this list, among facilities from far and wide, is incredibly meaningful. Designing for the New Westminster community has been an honour, and we’re thrilled to see the positive impact this facility has already had for its users—the people we design for,” said Paul Fast, principal, HCMA.
In addition to being among the World’s Most Beautiful Sports Venues 2024, təməsew̓txʷ is eligible to compete for one of the three 2024 World Titles – Prix Versailles, Interior and Exterior. Those awards will be discerned by the World Judges Panel.
The World Titles Announcement will be made on December 2, 2024, at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, France.
