Brechin BCCUCC Development
Nanaimo, BC
VIA is working with the British Columbia Conference of the United Church of Canada (BCCUCC) and Colliers International Consulting (CIC) to redevelop three sites in three different municipalities (Richmond, Coquitlam and Nanaimo) to build new church space for each congregation as well as affordable housing that will serve each community.
Brechin United Church in Nanaimo, BC will comprise new church space for the congregation and 74 rental units with one level of below-grade parking. Of these units, 51% will be rented at BC Housing’s affordable rates and 49% will be rented at market rates. Just over half of all units will be Studio and 1-bedroom types. The balance will be family-friendly 2- and 3-bedroom units.
The project, comprised of a new church space for the congregation and 74 rental units with one level of below-grade parking, is designed to Passive House principles utilizing site orientation, a robust building envelope, strategic shading and efficient building systems to meet a rigorous standard for energy efficiency and occupant comfort. The project also proposes a mass timber solution in place of traditional non-combustible construction and is pursuing Passive House Certification.
VIA is providing site master planning, programming, OCP amendment, rezoning, permits, architectural design, public consultation, and contract administration services.