Nestled in the Columbia Valley between the Rocky and Purcell mountains, the village of Invermere is unique in that its main street is still intact and vibrant. The new Community Centre, with a flexible auditorium space and library, forms a civic destination reinforcing the pedestrian route through the town. This public space sequence culminates in a new civic plaza, exterior amphitheater and roof patio with views of the distant mountains on all sides.
Building planning and structure are simple and efficient. The long slender volume acts as a counterpoint to the wandering mountain horizon in the distance. SHAPE Architecture Principal Alec Smith led an extensive public consultation process including stakeholder workshops and town hall meetings with presentations to Mayor and Council and open discussions with the public-at-large. The client group has commented on SHAPE Architecture’s ability to garner and maintain enthusiasm, as well as to build consensus amongst the diverse personalities involved in the project.
