Case Studies
Hospitality
The Alberni Tower by Kengo Kuma
Apr. 8, 2024
The Alberni Tower is a 43-storey residential skyscraper that just concluded construction in downtown Vancouver last year. It is located in the popular Coal Harbour neighborhood where visitors will also find Canada Place, Jack Poole Plaza, and beautiful waterfront trails. Downtown Vancouver offers a vibrant and dynamic urban lifestyle with a plethora of cultural, entertainment, and dining options. The cosmopolitan atmosphere attracts individuals who appreciate diversity and are always looking to explore and do, see, or eat something new! The tower was designed by renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, who is known for his innovative use of natural materials and organic forms. His architectural style is characterized by a profound respect for nature, employing materials such as wood, stone, and bamboo to create structures that harmonize with their surroundings. Light and transparency is also important to Kuma, not just in the use of windows and the interplay of shadows, but in how he makes stone look soft and doorways ethereal. His work reflects a commitment to cultural sensitivity, craftsmanship, and a deep appreciation for the connection between architecture and the environment. The breath-taking hanging structure at the base of the tower was created with 26,000+ linear feet of custom Longboard extrusion. Longboard battens and end caps were extruded in three custom sizes for the project and then finished with a custom woodgrain, one that was similar in tone to natural bamboo. Those same battens were used to make a similar feature that hangs above the tower’s pool. Aaron Fraser, Longboard’s Product Development Manager recalls the incredible experience of working on this project:
Spearhead Huts - Kees & Claire Hut
Sep. 15, 2020
The Kees and Claire Hut at Russet Lake is the first completed hut in a proposed system of 3 huts along the Spearhead Traverse. The hut is now in operation and accepting reservations for the public. The hut is located just above Russet Lake (50° 1’ 20″ N / 122° 52′ 23″ W). It is accessible via the Musical Bumps from Whistler Mountain or by climbing up the Singing Pass trail from Whistler Village. Longboard by is a proud donor of the extruded aluminum metal soffits in Dark Fir. Longboard linear metal soffits are perfect for the conditions as they require no maintenance, and are able to withstand the extreme weather changes throughout the seasons. The Spearhead Hut Society (SHS) was brought together by a passionate group of local skiers eager to create a valuable and lasting legacy to commemorate the lives of dear friends who’s lives were lost in the mountains, and share their passion with skiers for generations to come. Acknowledging that the memorial legacy is only one component of this invaluable proposed hut system, the Kees and Claire Memorial Hut Society joined the Brett Carlson Memorial Fund, the BC Mountaineering Club, and the Alpine Club of Canada to ensure this memorial legacy addresses a wide range of backcountry users’ needs, mitigates environmental impact in the area, and increases the comfort and safety for backcountry travellers.
Project Spotlight - Revel Hotel by Hilton
Sep. 5, 2020
This design featuring Longboard in both a solid and woodgrain colour, is the newest boutique hotel in Des Moines, Iowa. Located near Living History Farms, this hotel is embracing Iowa’s agricultural heritage, but with a modern twist. Revel Hotel opened following a $13 million renovation of the former Sleep Inn property at 11211 Hickman Road, just east of Interstate Highway 80/35 in Urbandale. It’s the second boutique hotel project in the area for Heart of America Group, which is a Quad Cities-based development company. “There’s nothing vanilla about it,” said Kim Whalen, executive vice president of Heart of America Group. “You’re in Iowa. We’re embracing the fact that we’re at Living History Farms, but it’s done in a modern way. The art and design of the hotel are completely custom and it features murals from Des Moines artist Gustav. “Embracing Iowa’s agricultural heritage, but with a modern twist.” “Boasting 113 rooms, the hotel provides a bed-and-breakfast feel that’s unlike the experience at big-box hotels,” Kim Whalen said. Some of the features of this unique space includes 16 different types of rooms, a lounge serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks, and a meeting space. As well as a large outdoor patio (shown in the photo above) which offers guests another space to grab a drink and embrace the relaxing atmosphere of this hotel experience. “We’re in an experiential age, not a product age anymore,” said Mike Whalen, president of Heart of America. Revel Hotel is part of Hilton Hotels and Resorts’ Tapestry Collection of boutique properties that includes unique properties all across the United States, including New York, Tennessee, Kentucky, North Carolina and the District of Columbia.
Insurance
Project Spotlight – Janzen Insurance
Aug. 22, 2020
Installed by Lindan Homes, this project was facilitated by one of our dedicated Senior Account Managers – Michelle Toews. Lindan Homes is a local BC construction company that specializes in high-quality custom home building and renovation projects. Valuing complete transparency and top quality in all of their projects, Longboard Products was proud to be featured and involved in this beautiful design. With drawings completed by Keystone Architecture this project was finished in March 2019. Being the first project to feature our new Link & Lock™ Battens, the versatile design was made simple with our interlocking beam product and gave this office space a modern and welcoming design. “Built on a foundation of education and experience.” Janzen Insurance has been in business for more than 25 years, and they have dedicated themselves to their clients and community, building a reputation based on trust—and a sense of humour. Owners, Andrew and Charlene are passionate about putting their clients first, and have built their lives, and their business, upon a foundation of education. With a commitment to gathering information and acting in their client’s best interests, they believe in using their knowledge to guide clients, which is clearly reflected by their extensive educational backgrounds and business style.
Education
Montana Museum of Art and Culture
Apr. 8, 2024
The Montana Museum of Art and Culture (MMAC) is a public art museum located on the University of Montana campus in Missoula. It was founded in 1894 and has a collection of nearly 12,000 works of art, making it the oldest, largest, and most comprehensive art holding in the state. The MMAC’s mission is to “collect, preserve, research and interpret the visual arts with an emphasis on the Rocky Mountain West for the education, enrichment and enjoyment of all”. Museums play a crucial role in inspiring and teaching communities and society as a whole. They preserve our heritage, create a deeper understanding of other cultures, and serve as repositories of human creativity. These institutions house and exhibit a rich collection of artwork, artifacts, and historical objects that provide a tangible connection to the past. These collections serve as educational resources, offering visitors the opportunity to learn about artistic movements, cultural traditions, and historical events.
Through curated exhibitions and interpretive programs, they contribute to the dissemination of knowledge and the cultivation of critical thinking skills. Art and culture museums often function as spaces for social interaction, bringing people together to share experiences, exchange ideas, and appreciate the beauty and diversity of human expression. By promoting cultural awareness and appreciation, museums contribute to the development of a more informed and empathetic society that values creativity, heritage, and the interconnectedness of global cultures. For over a century, the MMAC lacked a permanent home for its collection. Most of it was stored in various locations across the campus, such as basements, attics, and closets. This posed several challenges for the museum, such as:
Limited access and visibility for the public, students, and researchers
Poor environmental conditions and security for the artwork
High costs and risks of transporting and handling the artwork
Limited access and visibility for the public, students, and researchers
Poor environmental conditions and security for the artwork
High costs and risks of transporting and handling the artwork
Barrett Centre for Technology Innovation
Jul. 4, 2023
The Barrett Centre for Technology Innovation (BCTI) is a state-of-the-art, LEED Platinum certified academic building located in Etobicoke, Ontario. The building was designed by the architectural firm Perkins and Will and was completed in 2019. The Barrett Centre was created to provide a modern, aesthetically pleasing, and environmentally sustainable learning environment for students studying technology and innovation. The Barrett Centre for Technology Innovation centre was designed with a focus on functionality, sustainability, and aesthetics. The building’s exterior is characterized by its sleek, contemporary lines and use of glass, metal, and concrete. The cladding is Longboard’s 6” V-Groove in our bright and encouraging Light Oak finish. The design incorporates a variety of sustainable features, such as a green roof, a rainwater harvesting system, and geothermal heating and cooling. The building’s interior spaces are open and filled with light, featuring an abundance of natural light, expansive windows, and a central atrium that provides a sense of community and connection. Aesthetically pleasing academic structures like the Barrett Centre for Technology Innovation are essential for providing an optimal learning environment for students. Beautiful and inspiring buildings can stimulate creativity, encourage collaboration, and promote a positive learning experience. They can also contribute to the overall campus culture, attract new students and faculty, and enhance the institution’s reputation. The Barret Centre’s modern and dynamic design is an example of how academic buildings can be both functional and visually appealing, creating a positive and inspiring environment for students to learn and grow.
Inspiring Designs for Academic Architecture
Sep. 22, 2020
Schools and other academic buildings present a unique opportunity for creation. Whether an existing structure requires a remodel or a brand new project is about to break ground, Longboard Products offer a range of unique interior and exterior options that can help achieve different designs. Pictured above is Willow Lake Elementary, located in Indianapolis, IN. This project utilized 6” V Groove Tongue & Groove material in the woodgrain Dark Cherry. This material is also featured underneath the exterior soffits at the front entrance. This design strategy achieves a warm and welcoming entrance for staff, students and visitors and will stay looking beautiful for many years to come. Designed by CSO Architects, the 94,824 SF building was built on the grounds of a previously existing school and has created an inviting educational atmosphere for elementary students in the neighbourhood. “CSO worked closely with Washington Township Schools’ administrators, building-level principals and faculty, and the Design Team to develop a program for a prototypical two-story, K-5 elementary school with six 5-classroom learning neighbourhoods, an administrative area, shared activity area, gymnasium, dining commons, discovery center, kitchen, and building support spaces.”
Healthcare
Shodair Children’s Hospital
Jul. 4, 2024
The unveiling of the new Shodair Children’s Hospital brought a lot of joy and hope to residents of Montana. Not only through its state-of-the-art facilities, but also in its thoughtful design and use of premium building materials. Through the integration of vibrant colors, innovative architecture, and healthy materials, communities are building memorable structures for children’s health and healing.
Children’s hospitals are unique spaces where healing and comfort are paramount. The use of color in healthcare environments is more than just an aesthetic, it has profound psychological and physiological impacts. Colors can influence mood, behavior, and even physical healing. On the exterior of the hospital, vibrant hues are strategically used to create a cheerful and calming atmosphere. Bright colors like blue, green, and yellow are known to have various effects. Blue can soothe and reduce anxiety, green is associated with tranquility and balance, and yellow is stimulating and uplifting. These colors are not just randomly chosen but are carefully curated and aimed at reducing stress and making the hospital environment less intimidating for children.
Children’s hospitals are unique spaces where healing and comfort are paramount. The use of color in healthcare environments is more than just an aesthetic, it has profound psychological and physiological impacts. Colors can influence mood, behavior, and even physical healing. On the exterior of the hospital, vibrant hues are strategically used to create a cheerful and calming atmosphere. Bright colors like blue, green, and yellow are known to have various effects. Blue can soothe and reduce anxiety, green is associated with tranquility and balance, and yellow is stimulating and uplifting. These colors are not just randomly chosen but are carefully curated and aimed at reducing stress and making the hospital environment less intimidating for children.
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