Selkirk College Student Commons

The Selkirk College Silver King Campus in Nelson, BC has undergone a magnificent transformation to provide students with a cutting-edge learning experience. At the heart of this transformation lies the student commons building, a central hub where students and faculty can come together and have a space where they can study, collaborate, and connect.

As they step into the 2-storey atrium, students are greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere created by the seamless blend of natural materials and an open floor plan. The mezzanine level offers a modern work environment for the faculty, while the spacious design of the atrium provides students with ample room to relax, socialize, and study.

The building is a harmonious blend of sustainability, durability, and beauty. The roof exposes mass timber GLT panels to bring warmth to the space, with cleverly concealed cantilevering details around the perimeter. Thermal break units are used to insulate the building from the roof overhang, minimizing thermal losses and operational carbon footprint. The steel structure provides a spacious interior, while the exposed beams and wooden ceiling create a cozy and welcoming ambiance.

Sustainability is at the forefront of the project, and the student commons building is designed to be energy-efficient and eco-friendly. The use of sustainable features and materials is expected to result in 35% overall energy savings across the campus, making it an environmentally responsible choice for the future.