November 2009: In the beginning …
St. Martins and McCarthy residence could never be described as charming or beautiful and time has not improved its appearance. The roof was replaced in 1998 so the interior is dry and free of mold, but the exterior has suffered some weather damage and supports a variety of life in cracks and crevasses. The architectural finish of McCarthy, with its layers of ledges and horizontal features, has weathered worse than its older counterpart, but both wings of the building (as of November 2009) present a soullessly institutional appearance.
For more information about the history of the dorm visit the Tenth Street Residence History web page.
March 2010: Preparing the site
When the Cedars, Spruce and Fir trees began growing around the south and west sides of the building 60 years ago, they surely looked small and innocuous. However, these trees became quite large and had begun to crowd the building as well as each other.
Three trees were retained out of each of the two stands and 10 were removed (in total). This will provide clear access to the building, improve fire safety and ensure a healthier environment for the remaining trees. The three remaining on the south side have suffered because of their previous dry and crowded conditions. With less competition for light and moisture, their health should improve and they will be able to provide welcome shade for the entrance patio which is planned here.
The Nelson Arborist was hired to safely fell the trees and remove the stumps.
March 2010: Geothermal Installation
Nelson Hydro managed the design and installation of the Geothermal system and will conduct the operation and maintenance after it is complete. Because the local utility was able to act quickly to install this system, Selkirk College was able to meet the March 31 spending requirements as well as incorporate a progressive and efficient mechanical system into the future residence.
For more information about the Geothermal installation visit the Tenth Street Residence Design-Build Team web page.
June 2010: Demolition phase
With sledge hammers and jack hammers in hand, workers knock out walls and break open new spaces during the demolition phase of Selkirk College’s Tenth Street residence project.
The residence renovation project is pursuing Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold level certification. To date, Wildstone Construction and Engineering has recycled approximately 18,140 kilograms (40,000 pounds) of waste material. Recycling bins for material such as wood, cardboard, metal and concrete are placed throughout the construction site.
Read the news release for more information.
December 2010: Building takes shape
The demolition phase is complete and building wrap now covers the new framing and insulation on the west wing of the dorms. The next steps are placement of windows and metal siding which complete the majority of the exterior finishing work for this wing.
Tarps enclose the bottom level and stairwell of the east wing to keep the space heated while a new concrete slab and shear wall foundations are poured on the ground level. Wood framing within the east wing begins to define the sixteen 5-bedroom suites and four 3-bedroom suites that will provide the bulk of the new accommodations.
Beams and part of the second floor were removed between columns at the centre of the building. The former men’s washroom is being transformed into a beautiful two-storey entrance atrium that will also serve as a gathering space, lounge and information area.
Studio 80 is also being renovated and the equipment is being replaced (visit the 'Count Me In' webpage for details). The door seen in the photo (facing Tenth Street) will be the new public entrance to the studio and there will be a ticket booth next to the door. To the left and right of the old stairway, which will be hidden under the new elevated floor, there will be a sound booth and a lighting booth.
May 2011: Nearing Completion
As of May 2011, most of the exterior siding is in place, windows are installed and the balconies that will serve as access to east wing suites have been built. In addition, much of the servicing such as electrical and plumbing is nearing completion.
A newly created main entrance atrium will provide future space for lounge, orientation and a possible concession area with the four-story glass wall to benefit from the warmth and light of the southern sun in the winter. The residence interior will be finished with a combination of wood, cork-boards and exposed concrete and exposed mechanicals. Wooden columns and beams frame the wide balconies which provide exterior access to each of the self contained suites in the east wing.
The interior of Studio 80 will receive a completed sound isolation envelope and a new seating rake which will allow for an increase in capacity to 108 seats. Proceeds from the “Count Me In” fundraising campaign will be used to purchase new seating, light and sound systems.
When the renovation is completed and the residence is reopened it will feature space for approximately 100 residents in accommodations that range from single rooms with central amenities to 3 and 5 bedroom ‘pods’ complete with kitchen, bathrooms and a living room/dining room area.
The college has confirmed that the residence will be ready for occupancy on September 1, 2011, and is now accepting applications for accomodation from students for the fall 2011 semester.
