Castlegar Student Housing, Selkirk College
360 Volumetric Construction Management spearheaded this innovative partnership with Scott Builders Inc. as the GC and ROC Modular as the modular supplier.
ROC Modular was proud to deliver a much-needed new permanent modular Student Housing Residence for Selkirk College, located in Castlegar, a community in the Kootenay region of Interior British Columbia, Canada. The project is one of two buildings delivered simultaneously for the University across the campus.
Modular construction was chosen as the ideal solution to provide high-quality, fast-track affordable housing for students, delivering a 3-storey, 30-module, 114-student bed building with a mass-timber main common area for student amenities. The project houses students attending Selkirk College and each dorm unit has a shared washroom, and the building also has a number of communal areas including welcoming common spaces, spacious communal kitchens, an allotment of family units and the all-important study rooms. Incorporating modern design, the buildings place a premium on today’s learner. Aligning with BC’s Wood First Initiative and designed to meet Step 4 of the province’s Energy Step Code. There is a beautifully designed covered walkway connecting the current 100-unit student housing with the new building.
The project achieved step-code 4 of the BC Energy code, receiving exceptional ratings for energy efficiency and environmental design. Utilizing modular construction allowed for a faster schedule while minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency during construction. The project was designed to achieve a high level of energy performance by applying passive design principles, and the goal for the project was to increase the overall performance of the building through sustainable construction materials and improved energy efficiency. The hybrid integration of modular and mass-timber for the project provided technical innovation and beautiful architectural design for the finished building. The mass-timber in the main common areas provided open spans and beautiful architectural details, this hybrid method blended seamlessly together to create a stunning project.
Modular construction provided a fast-track schedule which reduced overall project cost and enables Selkirk College to meet the needs of both students and the community. High-quality modular student housing is a critical element for learner success and the completed project will result in better outcomes across the institution. Due to the Interior BC location of this project and a lack of trade availability in the area, modular construction provided the best option and lots of design consideration was given to completing as much in the factory as possible. Building in the ROC Factory reduced the need for trades and allowed the project to be completed faster and more cost-effectively. All interior finishes were completed in the factory prior to delivery, and all furnishings were installed, with a high degree of finish.
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