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Concourse renovations - Summer 2011
We have photos! Follow the progress of the concourse renovations on Flickr.
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Join us for the grand opening on September 22!
Like the new concourse on the New Westminster Campus? Come for the free cake and an African drumming performance by Bob Caldwell and the Douglas College Percussion Ensemble, stay to celebrate the grand opening of the renovated concourse with us on September 22 from 3:30-5pm.
Join us for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, which also focuses on the Internationalization Excellence award won by Douglas College International in June for its leadership in international education.
Douglas College International will also have a booth showcasing the many study abroad opportunities available from the College.
We hope to see you there.
The renovations
Vestibules
You may have already noticed the first big change to the concourse – double-sets of doors with vestibules located at all three entrances. These vestibules will help keep cold air outside and warm air inside. During the winter, they could increase the concourse temperature by as much as five degrees.
Flooring
Tired of tile? A new rubberized flooring system will be laid down on top of the hard ceramic. This new flooring isn’t only brighter and more comfortable on the feet – it’s also designed to absorb sound and help reduce echoes. Plus, it’s LEED certified, so it’s environmentally friendly.
Acoustic panels and tile
Sound-absorbing panels will be mounted in the rafters, helping to reduce echoes. Additional acoustic panels will also be placed strategically around the concourse, greatly improving the sound quality and reducing noise disruption the surrounding classrooms.
Windows
New, double-paned, sound-reducing windows will be installed in the classrooms around the concourse to further reduce sound transference.
Multi-purpose building
Probably the biggest single change, this multi-purpose structure will be built on the north side of the concourse, adjacent to the gym. At times, this climate-controlled flexible space will function as a welcome centre or student-advising area. Much of the year, however, it will be free for students to study, debate, or just chill with friends.
Stage
Equipped with a modern sound system, a small stage adjacent to the multi-purpose building will be used for various events, performances and presentations. The stage will face the existing steps on the east side of the concourse, creating a natural amphitheatre.
TV Monitor
Nine LCD TVs will combine to form a 10x5.5 foot monitor beside the stage. Here, you’ll see important College announcements, live sports events and more.
Seating
New soft (read: comfy!) seating will be installed on levels three and four overlooking the concourse.
Student work stations
Seven student work stations – powered, with LED tvs for group work – will be installed on the two levels overlooking the concourse.
