Architect Eric Pattison will become a member of Heritage BC’s board when directors are installed following the 2009 annual general meeting in Kelowna on June 5. A British Columbia architect since 1990, Eric Pattison holds a B.A. in anthropology and art history from Carleton University and a Bachelor of Architecture from U.B.C. At present he is completing the Cultural Resource Management Program at the University of Victoria.

Eric’s practice in New Westminster has been involved in heritage projects ranging from Queens Park homes to the rehabilitation of the 1911 B.C. Electric Railway Depot.  His projects have engaged the issue of sustainability through the reuse or relocation of buildings and by incorporating found historic materials in new buildings. His projects frequently assist the development of heritage planning policies by local government, exploring innovative rehabilitation solutions.  He also teaches heritage conservation planning in the Vancouver Heritage Foundation’s Old School Program.

His work has been recognized with numerous awards including a Heritage BC Outstanding Achievement Award in 2008 for the BCER Depot.  Eric is on the Massey Theatre Society Board and the City of New Westminster Design Panel.  While on the Board of the Raymond Burr Performing Arts Society, he was instrumental in securing the 1927 Columbia Theatre in public hands, having the building designated and undertaking restoration activities.

Eric says he is encouraged by the growth of the heritage field from a focus on the restoration of historic fabric to encompass a broader understanding of cultural values and significance.  He feels that engaging a local community, and the visiting public, in a dialogue about the past and its importance lends authenticity to conservation initiatives and greatly increases the chance of a successful project and support for the heritage field in general.