“WHO READS BOOKS?”: The case for CIQS Publications PROJECT PROFILE – CURV

Project: Curv Location: Vancouver, BC

Owner/Developer: Brivia Group

Shane McKernan, PQS, GSC, B.Tech

Many of us know that the CIQS has an online bookstore where there are around 10 highly valuable books available, all published by the CIQS. But in the age of YouTube videos and ChatGPT, one might wonder what point there is in continuing to have a professional library.

In fact, one of the missions for our education committee was to explore the needs for developing and updating technical publications that reflect the latest industry trends and practices. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or a student just starting out, as a published author myself, I can testify CIQS books offer a wealth of knowledge and insights that can help you stay ahead of the curve and excel in your career. For example, I will quickly just name a few:

• Elemental Cost Analysis: My personal favorite due to its abundant illustrative sketches identifying the building elements in a systematic approach. This manual also includes guidance on measuring gross floor area (GFA), which answers many questions raised by people from outside the QS profession.

• Method of Measurement of Construction Works: Canadian standard “rules of measurement”. This guide follows the structure of project spec sections and matches the MasterFormat system, which is widely understood by almost everyone in the building construction industry.

• Construction Project Development: The latest addition to CIQS collections and the largest book so far. Starting with the economics of construction project development, and ending with the practice of project loan monitoring, this 900-page book can serve as an invaluable resource for both professionals and learners.

For the book format, probably nothing beats the feeling of having a tangible, physical book, staying focused and able to crossreference contents conveniently, instead of staring at a screen all day and scrambling desperately to find a detail—those who work with PDF drawings know what I mean—however, I acknowledge reading habits are still an issue of personal preference and thus open to further discussion. The quarterly journal Construction Economist you are reading now is also available in print and digital form, with a range of technical articles and case studies written by our Canadian QS experts.

Another benefit provided by CIQS publications is the knowledge transfer from experienced professionals to the younger generation, which is incredibly relevant today with the skilled labour shortage problem. One of my engineer friends used to say: “Whatever we do in this world, we will leave some footprints behind us and that is how we will be judged”. CIQS published books are the accumulated wealth of expertise of quantity surveyors spanning several generations.

If you have the desire to share your knowledge and experience, feel free to join our education committee and get involved in some upcoming CIQS publication projects. While my 3-year term of education director is up, our committee group consisting of many highly intelligent and motivated individuals is always here to serve the institute and members. The next exciting CIQS book is already on the horizon—so stay tuned and connected!

Stats:

• Built at 1075 Nelson Street between Thurlow and Burrard Street, downtown Vancouver.

• One tower, that will weigh in at 60 stories, or ~175 metres.

• 358 market condominiums.

• 143 social + market rental condominiums.

• Tallest Passive House in the world.

• Tallest residential tower in Vancouver.

• First North American projects for British architect Tom Wright (WKK Architects – who designed the 312-meter Burj al Arab building in Dubai).

CURV, set for construction next year, will be located in the pinnacle of downtown Vancouver with a total of 501 units. There will be a mix of social and market rentals on the lower floors (up to the 20th floor), and 358 luxury condos for sale on the upper floors. This marks Montreal based developer Brivia Group’s first Vancouver project. Brivia group is behind the tallest residential tower in Montreal, 1Square Philips.

Part of Vancouver’s ongoing goal of becoming the greenest city in the world, CURV positions itself in Vancouver’s skyline as the soon to be tallest Passive House tower in the world. The international Passive House standard, which draws heavily from German and Canadian engineering, has gained worldwide recognition as the most advanced building standard for creating healthy and energy-efficient homes. To meet the rigorous criteria of the Passive House standard, a dwelling must achieve an impressive 90% reduction in energy consumption compared to traditional buildings. This entails strict adherence to specific requirements regarding the amount of energy used for space heating, cooling, and overall primary energy demands, measured in watt-hours. By incorporating super-insulation and ventilation, it significantly reduces the need for heating and cooling energy, surpassing the City of Vancouver’s 2030 targets for net-zero-ready emissions. With its carbon-conscious design, tranquil ambiance, and emphasis on health, CURV is meticulously engineered to provide the highest level of performance while maintaining affordable long-term costs.

As one would anticipate from a top-tier, environmentally conscious development, the amenities provided will set new benchmarks for luxury standards. The centerpiece will be the tallest clubhouse in western Canada, spanning the 60th and 61st floors, offering 360 panoramic views of Vancouver from every angle. Additionally, these amenities include a fully equipped fitness center, a dedicated yoga studio, a spacious rooftop terrace with panoramic views, a luxurious “sky spa” for relaxation, and an outdoor cinema for entertainment purposes. Throughout the lower levels, carefully designed spaces for social gatherings and children will be integrated, emphasizing walkability.

About the Author

Shane is the Director of Construction for Chard Development, based in Vancouver, British Columbia. With over sixteen years of experience in the construction sector, Shane’s experience includes estimating, cost consulting, project loan monitoring, and project & construction management. Shane is the current Past-President of the CIQS – BC Chapter, where he joined as the board’s first-ever student member in 2013. Shane also previously sat on the CIQS National Council as the YQS Observer for two terms and is an Assistant to the Construction Economist editor.