Hillcrest Aquatic Centre

The Hillcrest Centre in Vancouver stands as a remarkable example of functional wood design in a public recreational facility. Originally constructed as the Vancouver Olympic/Paralympic Centre for the 2010 Winter Olympics, it was thoughtfully designed for a seamless transition to a community facility after the Games. The building's most distinctive wood feature is found in the Aquatic Centre, where the pool ceiling showcases exposed wood decking supported by a series of gently curved glulam beams that connect seamlessly to sloped glulam columns. This timber structure was specifically chosen for the pool environment because wood naturally absorbs and releases moisture without losing structural integrity, while also helping to absorb sound in the natatorium space. The warm aesthetic of the exposed wood creates an inviting atmosphere for visitors while demonstrating sustainable building practices. Today, the award-winning LEED Gold certified complex serves as a bustling community hub, housing a library, pool, skating rink, curling rink, gymnasium, and various other recreational facilities that welcome over 2 million visitors annually.