A cob demonstration building with a living roof was built in Stanley Park in the summer of 2004. This project combined environmental sustainability with community art to construct the first cob structure in Vancouver's parks. The urban setting ensures the building will be seen by millions of visitors each year, giving it huge educational potential. By collaborating with research institutions such as UBC Civil Engineering and the BCIT Green Roof Research Facility, this project has set a precedent for the use of cob in urban areas and enabled the research and development of a natural building code for the city. The project has garnered much community support, with over 200 volunteers and a team of Environmental Youth Alliance members helping with construction.

Objectives of the SPEA:

1. Demonstrate “green” building practice through the use of cob and pursuing sustainability in all aspects of the project including using recycled, non-toxic, local natural materials.

2. Provide opportunities for the public to learn about sustainability and engage youth in the construction.

3. Enhance park experience for visitors by creating a structure that is beautiful and ideally suited to its environment.

4. Explore potential for more cob use in parks and the city via engineering, fire and permitting implications for additional and larger structures.

Click on the links at the left to find out more about this exciting and innovative project!