Vancouver, BC, Canada
The Sikh Temple (also known as Gurdwara Sahib) on Ross Street was originally designed in 1968 by Erickson Massey Architects. This celebrated building has been serving the greater Vancouver Sikh community for decades.
In 2012, Nick Milkovich Architects Inc. was entrusted to propose changes to the existing building that celebrated the original architecture, designing much needed expansion space. In 2016, the temple experienced a fire in the main sanctuary, prompting the Khalsa Diwan Society to undertake a renewal of the entire building.
A new entry pavilion was built to provide much needed circulation and pre-function space along with an extension to the existing dining hall, and improvement of food prep and storage areas. A ceremonial stair was added to better connect the dining hall to the main prayer hall, and a new elevator to improve circulation between floor levels. Upgrades also included new life safety, audio, visual, and security systems, as well as new plumbing, electrical, and interior finishes. The garden space was revitalized with new soft and hard landscapes, new pathways, and refreshed gathering spaces.
Refurbishment of the existing envelope also involved below grade waterproofing, drainage, site services, and careful material selection and details—ensuring the overall strategy reflected the original design intent.
Architect: Nick Milkovich Architects
Original Architect: Erickson Massey Architects
Completed: originally built 1970; refurbishment of the existing building and construction of the entry pavilion 2019