VanDusen recognized as world’s top engineering project

September 19, 2012

Fast + Epp’s work for the orchid-inspired visitor centre at VanDusen Botanical Gardens has been recognized as the top engineering project of 2012 by World Architecture News (WAN).

Completed with architects at Perkins + Will, the 19,000 sq. ft. structure beat out world-class projects such as the UK Pavilion Shanghai Expo, the Metropol Parasol in Spain, and Australia’s AAMI Park Stadium, for WAN’s inaugural Engineering Award.

According to judges, the structure’s geometrically-complex free-form green roof is “a cunning blend of technology” in its integration of mechanical, electrical and acoustical systems in 71 uniquely-prefabricated panels. In an architectural landscape that seems to be “in the process of moving towards more manufacturing… starting with timber,” they said the firm’s work makes it possible for architects to push the design limits with wood.

Click here for more information on Fast + Epp’s WAN 2012 Engineering win, including the final shortlist of noteworthy projects, or watch the video below for the judges’ full commentary: