PODS | Pender Harbour Ocean Discovery Station

Nestled in kalpilin (Pender Harbour), within the swiya (territory/birthplace/world) of the shíshálh Nation, the Pender Harbour Ocean Discovery Station (PODS) is poised to become a dynamic center for education, research, and environmental stewardship on the Sunshine Coast. PODS aspires to be an inspiring gathering place where science, art, culture, and community intersect—inviting visitors to discover and be inspired by the wonders of the natural world.

More than a decade ago, the Loon Foundation — a registered charity founded in 2002 — entrusted our firms with the vision of conceptualizing PODS. The Loon Foundation is guided by a mission to foster meaningful connections between people and nature, championing responsible stewardship of natural resources for future generations, and provides facilities and programs dedicated to environmental education, artistic and cultural exploration, scientific research, and ecological monitoring.

The vision for PODS was to create an iconic facility that would support the Loon Foundation’s expanding research and educational initiatives, while also serving as an economic catalyst for the local community by attracting visitors to the Sunshine Coast. The design demanded flexibility to accommodate a diverse range of uses, including a digital and animal cruelty free aquarium, 360 theatre, art exhibits, community and performance spaces, classrooms and labs, a café, and a commercial kitchen. The complex program requirements shaped the distinctive form and layout of the PODS building.

The architecture of PODS draws inspiration from the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the Sunshine Coast. Its three iconic arches evoke the upturned prows of boats, a tribute to the region’s seafaring traditions. The facade is adorned with shíshálh art and features natural materials, reflecting a deep respect for place. The building is designed as a model of universal accessibility and environmental sustainability, incorporating passive heating and cooling systems that draw from the ocean and earth, future solar power generation, and low carbon mass timber construction.

The Loon Foundation recently had a landmark collaboration agreement approved with the shíshálh Nation. The agreement enables both parties to advance meaningful opportunities for all, bolstering the Sunshine Coast economy, enriching kalpilin (Pender Harbour), and opening new horizons for generations to come. The Loon Foundation was also honored to have received funding from the Green Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) Program, the BC Mass Timber Demonstration Program as well as numerous private donations from the community, to bring PODS to life. A key requirement of the GICB grant is achieving CAGBC Net Zero Carbon building certification, a goal that aligns seamlessly with the Foundation’s commitment to environmental stewardship. We are also pursuing Rick Hansen Gold Accessibility certification to ensure everyone can experience PODS equally.

Location: Halfmoon Bay, BC

Date:  2014 - Present

Size: 1695 sq/m

Status : Construction Drawings