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We help organizations shape the future of their spaces. Through our “listening together” approach, we value every voice and deliver innovative and sustainable solutions that adapt to our clients’ ever-evolving needs.

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Education

Squamish, BC

Capilano University Squamish Campus

The facility plan for Capilano University’s Squamish Campus envisions an innovative and flexible learning environment. It contributes significant value by aligning with labour market demands, fostering community partnerships, and supporting the university’s strategic academic vision.

 Inform Planning was engaged to develop a clear and dynamic vision for the future of the campus, emphasizing versatility, innovation, and community integration.

The campus design incorporates:

  • Versatile learning spaces to support diverse academic programs.
  • Flexible wet/dry labs for immersive learning experiences.
  • Innovation labs equipped for hands-on, technology-driven activities.

In addition to academic spaces, the campus fosters community connections with social areas, a childcare centre linked to the Early Childhood Care & Education curriculum, and opportunities for partnerships with local industries and First Nations.

  • Client

    Capilano University

  • Location

    Squamish, BC

  • Year

    2022

  • Services

    High Level Space Programming

    Engagement Activities

    Detailed Space Programming

    Final Space Programming

    Business Plan Coordination

  • Project Details

    Project Size: <50,000 SF

A Commitment to Community and Cultural Respect

Central to the planning process was recognizing the unceded nature of the land. The campus design intentionally avoids an ‘Ivory Tower’ approach, striving instead for an embedded, community-centred framework that benefits both the local community and the land.

Cultural safety was a guiding principle in the planning, ensuring spaces reflect and respect First Nations education practices. Key features include: purpose-built rooms with circular seating arrangements for oral education, and HVAC systems designed to accommodate smudging ceremonies.

A Facility Plan with Lasting Impact

This facility plan serves as a cornerstone for Capilano University’s Concept Plan and Business Plan submissions to the Ministry of Advanced Education, helping secure the capital funding needed to realize the vision. By integrating cultural respect, community connections, and innovative learning spaces, the plan positions the campus as a hub for growth and collaboration that will benefit the university and its partners for years to come.

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