Recognized as the Best New Community-Institutional Building in 2018 by the Victoria Real Estate Board, the Centre for Wellbeing is a community facility created as a therapeutic wellness hub to service those in the Greater Victoria area and beyond. The two-storey medical centre features over 15,000 sq. ft. of space, offering critical mental health and wellness services provided by the Pacific Centre Family Services Association (PCFSA). Designed to create an environment that feels safe, warm and inviting to each patient, the PCFSA provides education, counselling and creative programming services on the second floor with 7,200 sq. ft. of space available for rent by other healthcare providers on the main level.
As the mechanical and electrical consultants, Williams Engineering (WE) provided services to help provide families ease of access to healthcare services and for the PCFSA to fulfill its mission and enable the organization to create a positive impact for children and families who have experienced trauma.
Providing safe and private spaces for families and others was a primary objective for the wellness centre. Privacy is provided for stakeholders utilizing acoustic attenuation that reduces voice transmission between counselling rooms and various other spaces throughout the facility. To address the safety concerns of this site, WE designed emergency life safety systems, including exit and emergency lighting as well as innovative communications systems. Other design solutions also included HVAC systems that move large amounts of slow air efficiently and quietly, LEED principles of airflow to create comfort, and radiant ceiling heat to warm the building’s surfaces, creating a sense of sanctuary.
The Centre for Wellbeing is currently operating full-time and is providing much-needed resources to its growing community. Contributing to a facility like the Centre for Wellbeing that will enhance the lives of those seeking these essential tools and resources regarding their overall health enables our teammates to live out our company purpose and positively impact the communities we serve.
