This thesis explores the notion of site as a generative basis for architecture. Site is conceived
not only as a plot of land where a building is located, but also as something that is the result of
agency: the architectural intervention. Site is thus constructed with architecture; it is as much a
consequence as a thing.
Still Creek was chosen as a provocative site in which to explore this idea. Once Vancouver's
largest salmon-bearing stream. Still Creek now exists in a barren, degraded state — the result
of a century of urbanization. In its fragmented course from its headwaters to Burnaby Lake,
Still Creek flows above and below ground through a diversity of site conditions, ranging from a
primeval ravine to a polluted industrial area. Recently, sensibilities about the stream have
changed. There are presently a variety of groups interested in Still Creek, not only as a public
amenity, but also as an urban ecosystem. In response, it was proposed that (1) an urban trail
be located along the discontinuous course of the stream, and (2) a facility be located along the
stream that addresses some of the needs of these interested groups.
The Still Creek Interpretive Facility marks both the beginning of the stream and the start of the
urban trail. Located at the edge of the Renfrew Ravine where the stream first emerges from a
subterranean culvert, the building makes apparent the many forces present on the site. An
initial gesture of excavation reveals the culvert and demarcates a constructed and a natural
edge. The constructed edge of the excavation is heightened with a veil of translucent solar
panels that diffuse sunlight and help power the building. A wood screen along the natural edge
of the excavation acts as a foil to the alder forest, allowing the building to maintain a quiet
presence in the ravine as well as creating shimmering views of colour and light. The stream
fills the lowest part of the excavation, mitigating high runoff flows and making a reflective pool
for light, precipitation, and sound. The excavation and screen walls form a vessel into which
mute volumes are inserted, creating a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces, some relating
more to site, others relating more to programme. Exterior building circulation winds through
the whole assembly — an extension of the urban trail — forming a rich experiential descent
from street...through building...to stream beyond...
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:LACETR/oai:collectionscanada.gc.ca:BVAU.2429/5906 |
| Date | 05 1900 |
| Creators | Boothroyd, Gregory Stephen |
| Source Sets | Library and Archives Canada ETDs Repository / Centre d'archives des thèses électroniques de Bibliothèque et Archives Canada |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Electronic Thesis or Dissertation |
| Relation | UBC Retrospective Theses Digitization Project [http://www.library.ubc.ca/archives/retro_theses/] |
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