From timber canopies to the first zero carbon pool

The tour began at Simon Fraser University Stadium, opened in 2020 at Terry Fox Field. The project transformed a sloped campus green into a gathering and viewing destination with 1,823 formal seats and over 300 informal spaces. Its striking cantilevered canopy appears to float above the stands while integrating a press box, washrooms, and locker rooms below. Built with locally sourced cross-laminated timber suspended beneath steel girders, the canopy balances structural innovation with sustainability. More than a stadium, the facility functions daily as shaded outdoor seating, a social space, and even an outdoor classroom, underscoring its role as a student-driven community hub.

Following the visit to SFU Stadium, the group proceeded to təməsew̓ txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre, Canada’s first zero carbon aquatic facility opened in May 2024. The 10,684 m², CAD 114 million centre replaces two aging facilities, offering a hub for aquatics, fitness, arts, childcare, and community programs. Features include a 50-m lap pool, leisure pool with lazy river, hot pools, sauna, gym, and multipurpose rooms. Designed through community input, it emphasizes inclusivity with universal change rooms, zero-entry pools, and full accessibility. Participants had the opportunity to explore the mechanical rooms and gain insight into the cutting-edge technologies supporting the facility’s operations. Sustainability highlights include Canada’s first gravity-fed pool filtration system, reducing energy and chlorine use. The all-electric building targets Zero Carbon, LEED v4 Gold, and Rick Hansen Accessibility Gold certifications.