There are few true public spaces in Whistler, one of the world’s most acclaimed ski resorts. The municipality sought to create a community space that would feel like a “home away from home” for locals and visitors – while also showcasing the village’s stunning mountain views and its commitment to sustainable design.
Early on in the design process, Whistler Public Library’s L-shaped layout indicated the need for a shallow pitched shed roof, with significant overhangs and up to 14m clear spans. The roof would also need to shoulder some of Canada’s most severe snow loads.
Fast + Epp developed an innovative roof panel system constructed from interlaced 4×12 hemlock. The hemlock timbers were prefabricated into panels 1.2m wide and up to 14m long. For the longest spans, we developed a steel king post and cable system to improve structural capacity, which was installed once the panels were in place. A 300mm gap between panels created a void in which to run services, keeping the ceiling clear and uncluttered.
2008 Wood Design & Building Award - Red Cedar
Certified the first LEED Gold library in Canada, the design is a contemporary interpretation of the village’s traditional architectural style and is well loved.