Dawson Creek and District Hospital Replacement – Dawson Creek, BC
Project Overview
We are building a new, state-of-the-art hospital to address current and future health and patient care needs.
The vision of the project is to create a model of excellence in health care that will incorporate modern best practices and standards for the hospital, as well as meet the future needs of the region.
The new hospital will improve the healing environment and provide culturally safe care for residents of the Northeast. It will benefit patients, families, physicians and staff through strengthened existing services. The project will support recruitment, retention, andContinue reading
Project Overview
We are building a new, state-of-the-art hospital to address current and future health and patient care needs.
The vision of the project is to create a model of excellence in health care that will incorporate modern best practices and standards for the hospital, as well as meet the future needs of the region.
The new hospital will improve the healing environment and provide culturally safe care for residents of the Northeast. It will benefit patients, families, physicians and staff through strengthened existing services. The project will support recruitment, retention, and engagement of health care workers and bring local economic benefits to the City of Dawson Creek, surrounding areas, and local Indigenous communities.
The new hospital will be over 50% bigger than the current hospital (approx. 24,500m2 / 263,000ft²) and will include:
24 additional beds, bringing the total up to 70 beds, all of which will be single rooms with ensuite washrooms.
An emergency department that is double the size of the existing one, with a treatment spaces increasing from 10 to 15.
Support for new moms and families through a maternity unit including labour, delivery, recovery and post-partum rooms and a nursery.
Improved mental health service delivery with an increase of beds from 15 to 18, plus 2 high observation rooms.
Space for a laboratory, medical imaging, and physical rehabilitation.
A range of surgical services as well as ambulatory care including cancer care, IV therapy, respiratory therapy, and visiting specialists.
A spiritual room for use by people of all faiths and cultures that can accommodate cultural ceremonies such as smudging.
Improved regional pharmacy services that meet the new National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities guidelines and requirements.
Culturally safe and welcoming spaces that are designed with input and feedback from surrounding Indigenous communities as well as the local community.
Increased parking capacity with over 290 parking stalls for patients, visitors, and staff.
The new Dawson Creek & District Hospital is being built in Treaty 8 territory, the ancestral home of the Beaver, Cree, Saulteau, Sicannie (Sikanni), and Slavey. Northern Health acknowledges the hospital serves the communities of Blueberry River First Nation, Doig River First Nation, Fort Nelson First Nation, Halfway River First Nation, Kelly Lake Communities, Prophet River First Nation, Saulteau First Nations, and West Moberly First Nations; as well as Métis, Inuit, and urban Indigenous populations within the Peace Region of Treaty 8 territory.
The budget for the project is approximately $590 million which will be shared by the provincial government, through Northern Health, and the Peace River Regional Hospital District.
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Community Connections: September Engagement Highlights
Share Community Connections: September Engagement Highlights on Facebook Share Community Connections: September Engagement Highlights on Twitter Share Community Connections: September Engagement Highlights on Linkedin Email Community Connections: September Engagement Highlights linkThe Dawson Creek & District Hospital Replacement Project team was proud to participate in two meaningful community events this September – Northern Lights College's Community Fair and the Saulteau First Nations/West Moberly First Nations Health Fair.
These events are important for us to participate in as we continue our commitment to engaging with residents, students, and Indigenous partners as we build a hospital that reflects and serves the region.
Northern Lights College Community Fair – September 17
On September 17, we attended Northern Lights College’s Annual Community Fair at the Dawson Creek campus. With the new hospital being constructed on the corner of the college grounds, this event provided a valuable opportunity to connect with students and share information about the new facility.
We engaged with numerous students interested in careers in health care, offering insights into the wide range of employment opportunities that will be available as the hospital approaches its opening in early 2027. Great conversations were had with nursing students who are expected to graduate within the next year – many of whom expressed enthusiasm about the possibility of joining the hospital’s future workforce.
Saulteau First Nations Health Fair – September 25
On September 25, representatives from the DCDH Project Team and Northern Health Indigenous Health had the opportunity to participate in the Saulteau First Nations and West Moberly First Nations Health Fair, an event that brought together community members, health professionals, and service providers in a celebration of wellness and connection.
We shared updates on how the new hospital is being designed and built with cultural inclusion and respect at its core. Key features of the new hospital such as a spiritual room for ceremonies, Indigenous language signage, and a family gathering space were highlighted as examples of the project's commitment to honoring the traditions and culture of the Treaty 8 First Nations.
The event also provided an opportunity to distribute employment flyers and speak with community members about future job opportunities at the hospital. These conversations are vital to ensuring the hospital becomes a place where Indigenous staff, patients, and families feel welcomed, respected, and represented.
Attendees also had an opportunity to engage with Stacy Wheeler, Indigenous Care Coordinator at the Dawson Creek & District Hospital to learn how she can support them on their health care journey when they come to the hospital to receive care.
Want to learn more about the Indigenous Care Team and how they support Indigenous patients and communities across the North? Visit the Indigenous Care Team page to explore their work and connect with the team.
Pictured from left to right: Stacy Wheeler, Indigenous Care Coordinator; Jennifer Dunn, DCDHRP Clinical Lead; Ashley Pannozzo, DCDHRP Community Engagement & Communications Liaison
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Integrating the Cree and Dane-zaa languages into wayfinding signage in the new Dawson Creek & District Hospital
Share Integrating the Cree and Dane-zaa languages into wayfinding signage in the new Dawson Creek & District Hospital on Facebook Share Integrating the Cree and Dane-zaa languages into wayfinding signage in the new Dawson Creek & District Hospital on Twitter Share Integrating the Cree and Dane-zaa languages into wayfinding signage in the new Dawson Creek & District Hospital on Linkedin Email Integrating the Cree and Dane-zaa languages into wayfinding signage in the new Dawson Creek & District Hospital linkWe are excited to share that the Dawson Creek & District Hospital Replacement Project has achieved a meaningful milestone in our journey toward cultural safety and inclusivity.
In collaboration with the Treaty 8 First Nations, we explored how the new hospital could reflect and honour the cultural heritage of the Indigenous peoples whose traditional territories it resides on and completed a thoughtful engagement process to integrate local Indigenous languages into the new facility.
As a result, the Cree and Dane-z̲aa languages will be integrated into the new hospital on select wayfinding signage including department entrance signs as well as key destination, room, and amenity signs.
Indigenous languages will also be integrated into the digital wayfinding kiosks offering an inclusive and accessible experience without the limitations of physical signage.
In addition, a dedicated welcome wall located in the main lobby of the new hospital will celebrate the diversity of our region by showcasing the many Indigenous and global languages spoken in our region. This wall will serve as a visual reminder of our shared commitment to inclusion, reconciliation, and cultural safety.
One of the core values of the Dawson Creek & District Hospital Replacement Project is providing culturally safe care to all who use the new facility. Language inclusion plays a vital role in honouring the diverse communities we serve, and we committed to ensuring it was done in an intentional and thoughtful way.
Our goal is to create a welcoming and respectful environment for Indigenous patients, families, visitors, and staff. We also want to ensure that the signage system remains inclusive and respectful of cultural diversity, while still fulfilling its core purpose: to guide and orient all users clearly, safely, and effectively.
This initiative is in alignment with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action, particularly those that call on health care systems to recognize the value of Indigenous healing practices and to provide culturally safe care. By integrating Indigenous languages into the hospital environment, we are taking a meaningful step toward reconciliation – acknowledging the importance of language in identity, healing, and cultural continuity.
This work is a testament to the power of partnership and the importance of listening to community voices. We are grateful to the Elders and Knowledge Keepers who generously shared their time, wisdom, and traditional languages with us to help create a new facility that reflects the people it serves.
The integration of Indigenous languages is more than signage – it’s a step toward healing, recognition, and respect. We look forward to welcoming everyone into a hospital that honours the past, embraces the present, and builds a more inclusive future.
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Minister of Health Josie Osborne visits Northeast BC
Share Minister of Health Josie Osborne visits Northeast BC on Facebook Share Minister of Health Josie Osborne visits Northeast BC on Twitter Share Minister of Health Josie Osborne visits Northeast BC on Linkedin Email Minister of Health Josie Osborne visits Northeast BC linkFrom August 27 to 29, 2025, Minister of Health Josie Osborne conducted a multi-day tour in Northeast British Columbia focused on health care infrastructure and community engagement. She engaged with health care professionals as well as Indigenous, municipal, and regional leaders.
Minister Osborne began in Fort St. John with a tour of the Fort St. John Hospital and Peace Villa and a meeting with BC Emergency Health Services.
Minister Osborne then travelled to Dawson Creek for a tour of the new Dawson Creek & District Hospital construction site – which is a $590 million investment into health care in the region. The tour highlighted the improvements and expansion of services and programming, including the new emergency department, inpatient unit, and maternity unit. While in Dawson Creek, she also held meetings with local Northern Health Relational Security Officers, Dawson Creek Mayor and Council, and MLA Larry Neufeld.
Minister Osborne then travelled to Tumbler Ridge to meet with Mayor and Council and tour the Tumbler Ridge Health Centre.
In Chetwynd, Minister Osborne visited the Mîýomâcihêwi Kamik (Northern Nations Wellness Centre) and the Chetwynd Hospital and Health Center as well as met with the Mayor of Chetwynd and representatives from Saulteau First Nations.
The final day included a tour of the Hudson’s Hope Health Centre and meetings with the Mayors of Hudson’s Hope and Fort St. John
Minister Osborne’s visit to the Northeast reflected the province’s commitment to strengthening rural health care, supporting community-led initiatives, and engaging directly with those shaping the future of health services in the North.
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Mock-up #4: Refining patient care spaces through clinical engagement
Share Mock-up #4: Refining patient care spaces through clinical engagement on Facebook Share Mock-up #4: Refining patient care spaces through clinical engagement on Twitter Share Mock-up #4: Refining patient care spaces through clinical engagement on Linkedin Email Mock-up #4: Refining patient care spaces through clinical engagement linkWe’re thrilled to share an exciting milestone was recently achieved in the design and construction of the new Dawson Creek and District Hospital with the completion of our fourth mock-up session, which took place on-site and inside the new hospital!
Mock-up #4 focused on two key spaces: a typical medical/surgical inpatient room and a typical bariatric patient room.
These mock-ups are immersive, hands-on experiences that give clinical users an opportunity to physically experience the space and provide real-time feedback on layout and functionality prior to construction being replicated throughout the facility. This approach enables identification of potential issues and supports evidence-based decision-making to ensure the final spaces are both operationally efficient and patient-centered.
These mock-up sessions are a vital part of our design and construction process, allowing us to refine room layouts based on the input of those who will work in these spaces every day. By inviting clinical staff to experience the rooms in-situ and provide feedback, we ensure that every detail is thoughtfully considered. The feedback gathered will directly inform final construction decisions, helping us build a hospital that truly reflects the needs of our staff.
During the mock-up, clinical users provided valuable insights on:
- Hand sanitizer placement for optimal accessibility and infection control
- Washroom grab bar types and locations to support patient mobility and safety
- Handrail placement throughout the room to assist with movement and fall prevention
- Workflow efficiency to streamline care delivery
Interested in learning more about the key features of patient rooms? Check out Highlight: Inpatient Rooms.
Photos from the typical bariatric patient room:
Photos from the typical medical/surgical inpatient room:
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A Project Update: July 2025
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Where we’re at
We are continuing to make strong progress this summer, with major construction milestones achieved and several key phases of work underway.
The generator pads and retaining wall are now complete as well as the BC Hydro and TELUS utility work. Crews are halfway through gravel prep around the site and curbs are complete on the west side. Trenching for site lighting is progressing which will enhance safety and accessibility across the property.
On the structural side, steel framework and roofing for the north entrance canopy and ambulance bay are complete, providing a glimpse of the welcoming and modern design that will greet patients and visitors. Exterior work is also advancing with insulation, cladding, and brick veneer, and parapet cap flashing installation to ensure the building envelope is weather-tight and energy-efficient.
Inside the facility, framing is now complete on all three levels. Drywall installation, mudding, and taping are well underway throughout. Ceiling framing and top skirting are also progressing, helping to define the interior spaces and prepare for final finishes. Throughout Level 1 and 2, priming, painting, and flooring are underway in the first zones. Mechanical and electrical systems are being installed in the basement, penthouse, and main electrical rooms.
What’s next
On the exterior, crews are starting to install the generator equipment, which is an essential step in preparing the facility’s backup power systems. Site preparation will continue with more gravel work, followed by concrete and asphalt pours for sidewalks, driveways, and parking areas. Roof decking on the entrance canopy will continue, adding architectural detail to the main entry points. The exterior shell of the building is expected to be completed by the Fall.
On the interior, drywalling, taping, ceiling work, priming, painting, and flooring will continue across all levels. Mechanical and electrical rough ins on Levels 1 and 2 are expected to be completed by August.
In August, an in-situ mock-up of a typical inpatient and bariatric room will take place. Mock-ups give clinical users an opportunity to walk through the space before the construction of the rooms are duplicated. These mock-ups help identify any design or layout issues to ensure the rooms are efficient and comfortable for both patients and staff. This hands-on approach supports better decision-making and ensures the final spaces meet the needs of those who will use them every day.
Photo taken: July 19, 2025
Construction progress photos
Department highlights
Interior and exterior colour schemes and inspiration
The new Dawson Creek and District Hospital is more than just a building – it's a reflection of the Peace Region itself. From the flowing rivers and historic railways to the vast northern skies and dancing auroras, every design element is inspired by the region.
The interior design and colour schemes for each level of the hospital will feature unique colour palettes and themes drawn from our natural surroundings, creating a calming, welcoming space for patients, families, visitors, and staff. It’s a thoughtful blend of beauty, culture, and healing.
A vibrant new feature is also catching the community’s eye: the building’s exterior colours. The façade is being clad in Ocean Blue, Lagoon, and Tuscan Sun – a bold and meaningful palette that reflects Dawson Creek’s natural beauty, cultural identity, and northern spirit.
Ocean Blue represents the vast Peace Region sky symbolizing openness, calmness, and clarity. Lagoon captures the magic of the Aurora Borealis, a natural wonder often visible in the northern skies. Tuscan Sun was chosen to complement the City of Dawson Creek’s logo and is intended to highlight the main entrance and stand out as a visible landmark.
Operational readiness and transition planning
The third round of departmental workplan updates was completed earlier this month with many departments on track – actively defining processes, establishing workflows, and collaborating with other teams as needed to advance discussion and coordination.
Work is ongoing to refine the Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment List and Information Management/Information Technology Equipment List to ensure that quantities are accurate and aligned with operational requirements for opening day.
The second Operational Readiness Committee (ORC) Meeting was held in June. The committee continues to meet regularly to address risks, approve change requests, and coordinate readiness activities across teams.
Frequently asked questions
What is Northern Health doing to recruit and retain staff for the new Dawson Creek & District Hospital?
We recognize the concerns our communities have around the challenges in recruiting and retaining health care professionals in rural and northern areas like ours.
Northern Health is taking strong, coordinated action to address recruitment and retention challenges in rural and northern communities, including Dawson Creek, and is actively working towards building a sustainable workforce through a wide range of recruitment and retention strategies and initiatives. Efforts include attending career fairs, running targeted advertising, and engaging with students through classroom visits and community partnerships.
To build a sustainable workforce, Northern Health is collaborating with local and regional post-secondary institutions including Northern Lights College and the University of Northern British Columbia to support students through educational programs and expanded pathways to help them enter the health care field and build long-term careers.
Northern Health continues to actively recruit medical staff including physicians. Dawson Creek is one of the first communities to have added associate physician positions. Our recruiters are attending medical conferences and working with each community to identify and recognize unique needs to ensure it’s the right fit for each new hire.
Retention is just as important. Northern Health and the Ministry of Health have offered meaningful financial incentives for rural and remote positions, some of which include return-of-service commitments
In addition, our Northeast Recruitment and Retention Ambassador plays a key role in strengthening our workforce by building strong partnerships with communities partners and supporting initiatives that help attract and retain top talent across the region. Our Regional Manager of Housing and Childcare is actively collaborating with community partners to improve housing, childcare, and other supports that make it easier for staff and their families to live and work.
As we look ahead to the opening of the new Dawson Creek & District Hospital in Spring 2027, we are laying the foundation to ensure it is fully staffed and ready to serve our community. The new hospital is being designed and built with staff and patient experiences in mind. It will feature private patient rooms with ensuite washrooms, natural lighting, accessible washrooms, and modern technology – all of which contribute to a more comfortable and efficient environment. These improvements are key to attracting and retaining health care professionals who want to work in a modern, state-of-the-art facility.
Engagement initiatives
Smile Cookie Relay! DCDH PMO vs. Graham Design Builders
The DCDH Project Management & Facilities Maintenance Team took on the Graham Design-Builders Team in a smile cookie relay eating challenge as part of the DCDH Foundation’s annual Smile Cookie Campaign! While we didn’t take home the win (turns out the Graham team are pro cookie eaters!), we were proud to support this sweet initiative.
The DCDH Foundation raised over $38,000 which will stay here in our community and go towards the purchase of vital and life-changing medical equipment for health care facilities in Dawson Creek and the South Peace region.
Connecting with community at the South Peace Health Expo
On May 1, we participated in the first-ever South Peace Primary Care Network Health Expo in Dawson Creek!
This vibrant and interactive event brought together local health care providers, community organizations, and community members for an evening of learning, connection, and wellness. From health screenings and wellness resources to project updates and community engagement, the Expo was a fantastic opportunity for us to share how the new DCDH will support the future of health care in the South Peace region.
A big thank you to the South Peace Division of Family Practice and all the organizers for hosting such a meaningful event – and to everyone who stopped by our booth to learn more about the project. We’re excited to continue building a healthier future for Dawson Creek and the South Peace region.
Celebrating the joy of rurality at the Tumbler Ridge Medical Conference!
From July 4-6, we attended the 2025 Tumbler Ridge Medical Conference in the heart of one of Canada’s only UNESCO Global Geoparks!
This three-day event brought together over 100 rural physicians, nurse practitioners, nursing staff, pharmacists, residents, allied health professionals, and medical students from across BC. With a full program of hands-on workshops, expert-led education sessions, and community building activities, the conference focused on celebrating the joy of rurality and strengthening rural health care through collaboration, innovation, and shared learning.
We were honoured to connect with attendees alongside representatives from partner organizations including Doctors of BC, First Nations Health Authority, South Peace Division of Family Practice and Primary Care Network, North Peace Division of Family Practice, Rural Coordination Centre of BC, Institute for Personalized Therapeutic Nutrition, and the Tumbler Ridge UNESCO Global Geopark.
Other exciting news
Local artists shine!
We recently launched an artist call-out seeking local and regional photographic scenic images to be used on custom vinyl wall graphics in the new hospital.
We are excited to share that we received over 50 packages from local artists, totaling over 650 images for consideration! The DCDH Art Committee as well as the project management team and local DCDH leadership are reviewing the submissions to determine which images are successful and ultimately installed in the new facility.
Stay tuned to learn which artists will have an opportunity to feature their artwork in the new Dawson Creek & District Hospital!
FEATURED STORIES
- FAQ: What is Northern Health doing to recruit and retain staff for the new Dawson Creek & District Hospital?
- A vibrant reveal of the exterior ACM panel colours
- Highlight: Interior Design Inspiration and Colour Schemes
- Road closure: Until June 23
- Call-out for Artists and Photographers: Local and regional scenic photographic images for custom wall graphics
- A Project Update: April 2025
- Call-Out for Artists and Photographers - Local and Regional Images for Custom Graphics [PDF]
- Quarterly Update - April 2025 [PDF]
- Monthly labour report - As of June 30, 2025 [PDF]
- Monthly labour report - As of May 31, 2025 [PDF]
- Monthly labour report - As of April 30, 2025 [PDF]
- Construction Camera Timelapse - June 2025 [VIDEO]
- Construction Camera Timelapse - May 2025 [VIDEO]
- Construction Camera Timelapse - April 2025 [VIDEO]
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FAQ: What is Northern Health doing to recruit and retain staff for the new Dawson Creek & District Hospital?
Share FAQ: What is Northern Health doing to recruit and retain staff for the new Dawson Creek & District Hospital? on Facebook Share FAQ: What is Northern Health doing to recruit and retain staff for the new Dawson Creek & District Hospital? on Twitter Share FAQ: What is Northern Health doing to recruit and retain staff for the new Dawson Creek & District Hospital? on Linkedin Email FAQ: What is Northern Health doing to recruit and retain staff for the new Dawson Creek & District Hospital? linkWe recognize the concerns our communities have around the challenges in recruiting and retaining health care professionals in rural and northern areas like ours.
Northern Health (NH) is taking strong, coordinated action to address these challenges and is actively working towards building a sustainable workforce through a wide range of recruitment and retention strategies and initiatives.
This includes attending in-person and virtual conferences and career fairs, running targeted advertising campaigns, doing campus and classroom student visits, presenting to high school students, and leveraging community partnerships. We’re also reaching out beyond our borders through international and U.S.-based recruitment campaigns, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health.
In addition, we’re partnering with post-secondary institutions like Northern Lights College (NLC) and the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) to support local students through programs such as the Health Career Access Program (HCAP) and the Employed Student Nurse (ESN) program. To grow the workforce, we’re collaborating with our post-secondary institution partners on expanding educational pathways. For example, NLC offers Health Care Assistant and Practical Nursing programs in Dawson Creek and Fort St. John. These programs are designed to help students enter the health care field and build long-term careers. Graduates can even bridge into more advanced programs, such as the Access to Practical Nursing Diploma or the Northern Baccalaureate Nursing Program at UNBC. As of early 2025, hundreds of students are already enrolled or working in health care roles across Northern Health through these pathways.
Northern Health continues to actively recruit medical staff including physicians. Dawson Creek is one of the first communities to have added associate physician positions. Our recruiters are attending medical conferences and working with each community to identify and recognize unique needs to ensure it’s the right fit for each new hire.
Retention is just as important. Northern Health and the Ministry of Health have offered meaningful financial incentives for rural and remote positions, some of which include return-of-service commitments.
Our Northeast Recruitment and Retention Ambassador plays a key role in strengthening our workforce by building strong partnerships with schools and communities, enhancing onboarding experiences, promoting health care careers, representing Northern Health at events, and supporting initiatives that help attract and retain top talent across the region.
In addition, our Regional Manager of Housing and Childcare is actively collaborating with community partners to improve housing, childcare, and other supports that make it easier for staff and their families to live and work.
Looking ahead to the opening of the new Dawson Creek and District Hospital in Spring 2027, we are laying the foundation to ensure it is fully staffed and ready to serve our community. The new hospital is being designed and built with staff and patient experiences in mind. It will feature private patient rooms with ensuite washrooms, natural lighting, accessible washrooms, and modern technology – all of which contribute to a more comfortable and efficient environment. These improvements are not just about aesthetics; they are key to attracting and retaining health care professionals who want to work in a modern, state-of-the-art facility.
Over the past year, we’ve seen an increase of regular employees in Dawson Creek, and we’re continuing to invest in the people, programs, and partnerships that will help us meet the needs of our growing community. Northern Health is committed to ensuring that our communities have access to the high-quality, compassionate care they deserve.
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A vibrant reveal of the exterior ACM panel colours
Share A vibrant reveal of the exterior ACM panel colours on Facebook Share A vibrant reveal of the exterior ACM panel colours on Twitter Share A vibrant reveal of the exterior ACM panel colours on Linkedin Email A vibrant reveal of the exterior ACM panel colours linkA vibrant new feature of the new Dawson Creek & District Hospital is catching the community’s eye: the building’s exterior colours.
With majority of the aluminum composite material (ACM) panels now installed and the protective film getting peeled off, the building is quickly becoming a visible landmark on the city’s skyline.
The new hospital’s façade is being clad in Ocean Blue, Lagoon, and Tuscan Sun – a bold and meaningful palette that reflects Dawson Creek’s natural beauty, cultural identity, and northern spirit.
- Ocean Blue represents the vast Peace Region sky symbolizing openness, calmness, and clarity
- Lagoon captures the magic of the Aurora Borealis, a natural wonder often visible in the northern skies
- Tuscan Sun was chosen to complement the City of Dawson Creek’s logo and is intended to highlight the main entrance and stand out as an identifiable landmark
The chosen colours were thoughtfully selected to reflect Dawson Creek’s identity and to create a welcoming, recognizable space for patients, families, and staff. We are excited to hear that community members are already embracing the bold and meaningful palette.
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Highlight: Interior Design Inspiration and Colour Schemes
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The concepts for the interior design of the new Dawson Creek and District Hospital draws inspiration from features of the surrounding environment; the FLOW of the Pouce Coupe River and Dawson Creek, the CONNECTIONS along the Alaska Highway, and the railroad as important gateways to the surrounding region and the northern lights of the BIG SKY which offers a full spectrum of colour palette.
INTERIOR DESIGN APPROACH
The concept of FLOW has been translated in a consistent design approach for wall, flooring, ceiling finishes, millwork design and lighting applications throughout the hospital. Flooring patterns, unique acoustical ceiling treatments and strategic use of colour and accent finishes have been considered in the design of key spaces to help guide and direct patients and visitors through and to key spaces.
Major destinations become CONNECTION points throughout the hospital and are reinforced in wall, floor and ceiling treatments along with accent lighting, colours and graphics to support wayfinding for patients, visitors, staff and volunteers. Public elevator lobbies, prominent public corridors, patient waiting areas, care team stations, department and clinic entrances are all areas where accent finishes treatments have been considered to make these spaces unique and recognizable.
The seasonal light changes of the BIG SKY and northern lights of the region offer a full spectrum colour palette for the hospital. One unique and prominent colour accent is applied to accent wall treatments and graphics to distinguish each floor throughout the hospital.
FINISH SELECTION CRITERIA
LEVEL 0 – MOUNTAINS
The mountains surrounding this region provided inspiration for the colours used in public and staff areas in the lower level. This colour palette is bold but timeless and it helps emphasize the strong foundation the facility is built on.
LEVEL 1 – RIVER
The Dawson Creek, Pouce Coupe River, and Peace River that wind through the region serve as the main inspiration for the design of the main public spaces on Level 1, to provide a welcoming, calming and serene first impression for patients, staff and volunteers. The deep aqua colour combined with warm neutral tones and graphic references of river grasses are applied to floors, walls and ceilings to support the FLOW concept throughout this main floor, and on signage to assist with wayfinding.
LEVEL 2 – PRAIRIE
The surrounding prairie fields are an important feature that inspired the development of the interior design and wayfinding approach for the inpatient level. The abundance of natural light that floods the canola fields in a golden glow creates a prominent element on the exterior of the building that not only enhances the visual appeal of its design but also fosters a sense of vitality and rejuvenation within the interior spaces.
LEVEL 3 – FOREST
The depth of the forest colours combined with fir and pine needle imagery inspired the colour scheme for the mental health floor. We aimed to design a space that is reminiscent of the tranquility and calmness felt walking in nature.
PUBLIC ELEVATOR LOBBIES
The application of the four colour schemes is more evident at the public elevator lobbies, where each geographical feature is prominent.
The design features of the public elevator lobbies include durable wall cladding material with back lit graphic floor identification, colour accent treatments that wrap around recessed glass display cases, unique to each floor, which will feature original art and Indigenous artifacts.
Acoustical wood ceiling treatments have been designed at each elevator lobby to assist with acoustics and help with orientation and wayfinding.
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Road closure: Until June 23
Share Road closure: Until June 23 on Facebook Share Road closure: Until June 23 on Twitter Share Road closure: Until June 23 on Linkedin Email Road closure: Until June 23 linkUntil June 23, 2025, a section of 12 St. at 112 Ave will be closed for BC Hydro infrastructure installation for the Dawson Creek & District Hospital construction site.
Vehicle and pedestrian traffic will be required to take alternate routes around the closure.
We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. If you have questions or concerns, please email LetsTalkDCDH@northernhealth.ca(External link).
See the map below for the location of the closure.
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Call-out for Artists and Photographers: Local and regional scenic photographic images for custom wall graphics
Share Call-out for Artists and Photographers: Local and regional scenic photographic images for custom wall graphics on Facebook Share Call-out for Artists and Photographers: Local and regional scenic photographic images for custom wall graphics on Twitter Share Call-out for Artists and Photographers: Local and regional scenic photographic images for custom wall graphics on Linkedin Email Call-out for Artists and Photographers: Local and regional scenic photographic images for custom wall graphics linkNorthern Health is looking for artists and photographers to submit local and regional[1] scenic photographic images to be purchased/licensed by Northern Health and used for permanent custom wall graphics in various locations within the new Hospital.
Download a PDF copy of this opportunity to share with your extended network, colleagues, friends and family.
BACKGROUND:
Construction on the new Dawson Creek & District Hospital began in July 2023, is anticipated to be open and ready for patients by Spring 2027.
Graham Design-Builders was the successful proponent selected to complete the design and build the new Hospital.
The approach and strategy for the interior design for the new Hospital is informed by the surrounding natural environment:
- The flow of the Peace River
- The important connections via the Alaska Highway, railroads, rivers, and creeks
- The big sky with the northern lights/aurora borealis
INTERIOR DESIGN THEMES:
Each level’s interior design theme is based on regional inspiration and has the corresponding wayfinding colours:
CUSTOM GRAPHIC LOCATIONS:
Examples of two locations with sample custom graphics:
The following 13 locations in the new DCDH are planned to have custom wall graphics:
COMPENSATION:
Northern Health will compensate artists $1,800 per successful image, up to a maximum total of $23,400 for all 13 identified custom graphic locations throughout the new Hospital.
DELIVERABLES:
Please submit the following with your package:
- Digital files of local and regional photographic scenic images that align with the identified themes
- For each image submitted, identify which level and theme it aligns with and the preferred location
- Aspect ratios and dimensions of the images
- Original un-flattened artwork files
Please note:
- You are not required to coordinate the ordering or installation of the custom wall graphics as Graham Design-Builders is responsible for doing so.
- Submissions of images remain the property of the artist/photographer and are only required for initial evaluation purposes.
- Images will not be used or shared outside of the evaluation committees, if the submission is not successful.
- Please feel free to include watermarks and/or logos on submission images.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
- Vector artwork – EPS, AI, PDF (editable)
- Raster artwork – TIFF (preferred), PSD, PSB, JPEG (high res)
- Resolution – At least 150 PPI at 100% of the image size (300 PPI is preferred)
- 21MP and larger
EVALUATION CRITERIA:
Evaluation and approval of submissions will include review and input from the DCDH Art Committee and Northern Health representatives and be based on the following criteria:
- Respecting the Treaty 8 First Nations and the connection to the area where the new Hospital is being built within their territory
- Reflecting the larger vision and goals of the project
- Creating harmony with the design of the new Hospital
- Representing key local and regional landmarks
- Contributing to a sense of place
- Creating welcoming spaces for patients, visitors, and staff to gather and generate conversation
Northern Health will ultimately decide which images appear in which locations, based on evaluation of all the submissions and the above criteria. There is no guarantee the image will appear in the preferred location; however successful artists/photographers will be notified of any proposed location changes following the evaluation period.
LEGAL INFORMATION:
Selected artists/photographers will be required to sign a formal agreement, assigning certain intellectual property rights to Northern Health. Within the agreement, the artist/photographer will license the physical display of the images.
Northern Health will not reproduce or distribute the images without express consent from the artist/photographer; however, as part of a public display, photographs or images of the facility used for promotional material may capture the artwork in-situ. Such use will be authorized within the agreement.
SCHEDULE:
HOW TO SUBMIT:
Please submit your package with the subject:
“DCDH Art Submission: Custom Graphics – ”
To:
Ashley Pannozzo
DCDH Community Engagement and Communications Liaison
Ashley.pannozzo@northernhealth.ca
Given the large file sizes that are being requested, please feel free to use a file sharing tool such as WeTransfer, Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, etc. for your submission as they are likely to be too large to send via email. If you’d prefer a physical drop-off (USB, hard drive, etc.), please reach out to coordinate.
QUESTIONS?
Please email Ashley Pannozzo (Ashley.pannozzo@northernhealth.ca) if you have any questions or require any additional information regarding this opportunity.
[1] Local and regional is defined as: Dawson Creek and area, B.C. Peace River Region between the Rocky Mountain Foothills (west) and the Alberta Plains (east), South and North Peace River Regions, and Northeast British Columbia.
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