Elevating community wellness through high-performance design
Completed in May 2024, the təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre is a forward-thinking facility rooted in sustainability, accessibility, and community well-being. As the first aquatic centre in Canada to achieve Zero Carbon Building – Design certification, the project eliminated all onsite fossil fuel combustion and targeted a 92% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to the previous facility. Every building component was selected to enhance energy efficiency and occupant comfort—none more critical than the advanced glazing system.
The centre features large-format insulating glass units (IGUs) fabricated by Garibaldi Glass, incorporating Guardian’s ClimaGuard® 70/36 and SunGuard® SN 68 coatings, and Technoform’s hybrid warm edge spacer. Together, these technologies deliver high thermal performance by reducing heat transfer, minimizing condensation risk, and improving the U-value of the glazing assemblies—vital for maintaining comfort and reducing energy loads in a high-humidity pool environment.
Daylighting and visual connection to nature were essential strategies in promoting user wellness. Expansive high-performance glazing allows consistent natural light to enter the space, supports circadian rhythms, and reduces the need for artificial lighting. Views to the Fraser River and surrounding landscape are preserved without compromising thermal efficiency, thanks to the IGUs and warm edge spacer.
This collaborative solution from Garibaldi Glass, Guardian Glass, and Technoform plays a pivotal role in supporting the building’s thermal performance, occupant comfort, and long-term durability. It also directly contributes to the centre’s zero carbon certification and overarching climate resilience goals.
The result is a clean, modern glazing system defined by minimal sightlines, long vertical lites, and unobstructed views—supporting the architectural vision while creating a bright, inclusive space that will serve the New Westminster community for generations.
- Location: 65 E Sixth Ave, New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada
- Square footage: 115,000
- Year: 2024
- Photographs: provided by Garibaldi Glass
- Architect: HCMA
- Glazier: Columbia Glazing Systems
- Fabricator: Garibaldi Glass
- Manufacturer: Guardian Glass
- Warm Edge Spacer: Technoform
Awards & Recognition
- CAGBC Zero Carbon Building - Design Certified
- Pursuing LEED v4 Gold Certification
- Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification - Gold Certified
- Award of Merit in Environmental Leadership at the AZ Awards 2025.
- Recognized as one of the world's most beautiful sports venues for 2024 by the prestigious Prix Versailles Committee