Located at 302 Pine Avenue in Fernie, BC, the Fernie Childcare & Housing project is a four-storey, mixed-use development designed to provide essential community childcare alongside accessible residential living spaces. Developed in collaboration with New Commons Development and the Elk Valley Family Society, the facility utilizes an innovative, wood-frame pre-fabricated construction approach to maximize efficiency. The building’s layout thoughtfully dedicates the entire ground floor to a comprehensive childcare center, while the upper levels (two through four) are dedicated to residential suites. This integrated design effectively utilizes the site to serve as a vital, family-oriented resource for the Elk Valley region.
The project demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability, energy efficiency, and engaging community spaces. The exterior features carefully designed play spaces for the childcare center, complete with an embankment slide, a log “crawling pyramid,” and urban agricultural planters, alongside a green zone seeded with native grasses. The building also incorporates high-performance architectural systems, such as thermally improved cladding supports and energy recovery wheels, to ensure a comfortable and environmentally conscious footprint. With a focus on durability and modern aesthetics, the facility includes high-quality interior finishes, dedicated bicycle storage, and inviting outdoor wooden decks, creating a welcoming and sustainable environment for all its residents and visitors.
Gerrard Station