Cowichan District Hospital Replacement Project

The new Cowichan District Hospital (CDH) is being built on the unceded traditional territory of Cowichan Tribes. The Theew’t-hw (Coast Salish Big House), creates an open concept entrance that fosters connection featuring the use of wood as large posts and crossbeams.

The Cowichan District Hospital Replacement Project in Duncan, British Columbia, highlights the transformative potential of mass timber construction in healthcare settings. The 607,601 square feet seven-story facility integrates extensive use of mass timber in specific areas, particularly in its two-story community hall, which features large windows for abundant natural light. welcome/conference centers, reach-out spaces and entrances. The project benefits from the aesthetic and environmental qualities of mass timber while addressing the unique challenges of its application in acute care facilities.

The warmth and natural aesthetics of exposed wood create a calming environment, which can reduce stress and promote healing for patients while improving morale for staff. Large windows in the mass timber designs optimize natural light, supporting circadian rhythms and reducing reliance on artificial lighting, which benefits mental health and overall wellness. As a renewable resource, mass timber significantly lowers embodied carbon compared to traditional materials like concrete or steel, aligning with goals for net-zero carbon healthcare infrastructure.

The Cowichan project incorporates Indigenous design principles, with the community hall symbolizing collaboration and respect for local traditions. The acknowledgment wall welcomes visitors in Hul’q’umi’num and other languages, fostering inclusivity and cultural awareness. Mass timber contributes to better insulation and energy efficiency, further supported by Cowichan’s fully electric design and pursuit of Net-Zero Carbon certification.

The project demonstrates the viability of mass timber in healthcare while addressing safety concerns through strategic design and innovative engineering solutions. It is set to be a model for future sustainable and patient-centered healthcare facilities.