Resurrected after a tragic fire in 2014, the Yasodhara Ashram Temple of Light is a stunning structure located on the shores of Kootenay Lake in British Columbia. The building resembles a lotus flower with 8 petal-shaped panels and its large windows provide plenty of natural light to the calming yoga space.

The unique shape of the temple posed as an incredible challenge in terms of constructability and design. Each wooden petal was prefabricated near Nelson, BC before being shipped to the construction site and placed on engineered trusses to create the interior roof.

We were hired as the Building Enclosure Consultants on a team led by Patkau Architects. Our role involved helping bring the client and Patkau’s visions to life by reviewing the design concept, assisting with materials selection, and working with the team towards constructable solutions for this unique project.

Completed in 2018, the final Ashram Temple of Light is a sight to behold and an important gathering place for the community.

Date:

January 30, 2020

Client:

Yasodhara Ashram

Architect:

Patkau Architects

Our Role:

Building Enclosure Consultant

Key Services

Concept Review

Before material and systems selections are finalized, our clients benefit from a review of the building enclosure design strategies at a conceptual level. This review provides an opportunity to reflect upon the performance expectations and fundamental building science strategies behind the selection of appropriate solutions. Experience shows that changes made at the conceptual stage of building enclosure design have far greater cost-to-benefit impact than those made during late design or construction. A typical concept review considers the following:

  • Environmental loads
  • Energy performance targets and compliance options
  • Life cycle expectations
  • Constructability, sequencing, and complexity of detailing
  • Structural support
  • Risk analysis

Lorne Ricketts | M.A.Sc., P.Eng.

Regional Director – Canada West, Building Science Specialist
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Warren Knowles | P.Eng.

Principal, Senior Building Science Specialist
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