Foundry 

Tri-Cities

The Tri-Cities and surrounding areas have a growing need for more accessible, youth-focused mental health and wellness services. This new Foundry Tri-Cities location was developed to meet this need by creating an integrated centre offering vital services that respond to the needs of young people and families.

The project brought together local youth, families, Indigenous partners, and service providers across health, social services, government, and education. The goal was to create a space that felt welcoming, safe, and adaptable, one that could support a wide range of services.

Aura’s design‑build approach allowed the project team to align vision, budget, and execution from day one, helping this important community resource come to life efficiently and thoughtfully.

Inspired by moments of quiet connection found in nature, such as sunlight filtering through trees, reflections on water, moments of stillness and clarity, the Concept of Awe was selected as the design strategy for the space. The intention was to create an environment that encourages pause, reflection, and connection, rather than feeling clinical or overwhelming.

The result is a space that prioritizes inclusivity and connection, reflecting the values and priorities of today’s generation. Particular care was taken to support LGBTQ+ youth, newcomers, and individuals experiencing social isolation through thoughtful spatial planning and an atmosphere rooted in warmth and acceptance.

Through natural light, layered textures, and intuitive layouts, the design balances serenity and brightness while remaining flexible and accessible. The space invites moments of pause and self-reflection, while also supporting community, playfulness, and transformation.

Co‑Creation as a Core Design-Build Approach

A critical component of this strategy was meaningful community involvement. Foundry Tri-Cities was co-designed with youth through a dedicated advisory committee, ensuring that those who would use the space had a direct voice in shaping it. Youth and families collaborated with designers in selecting materials, colours, and finishes, choosing elements that felt authentic, welcoming, and representative of their identities and experiences. This collaborative process ensures the environment genuinely reflects the people it serves.

Aura’s integrated design‑build delivery enabled the construction of spaces that are highly responsive to Foundry’s operational needs, service models, and users.

Reception & Arrival
The reception area was designed to be welcoming and accessible, offering both a staffed reception desk and electronic self-registration for visitors who prefer a more private or digital check-in experience. Comfortable seating, abundant natural light, and expansive mountain views create a calming first impression.

Clinical Spaces
To support the delivery of physical and sexual health services, Foundry Tri-Cities includes three fully equipped medical exam rooms along with a dedicated medical waiting area for privacy. These spaces meet clinical requirements while maintaining a warm, youth-friendly atmosphere.

Client‑Facing Support Areas
The centre supports a wide range of services, including walk‑in counselling, peer support, primary care, and mental‑health and substance‑use programs. Six private talking rooms accommodate confidential conversations, check‑ins, and meetings. Additional purpose‑built spaces include:

• A sensory room for regulation and grounding
• An Indigenous support area designed with care and cultural respect
• A family support room
• A peer support space that encourages connection

A demonstration kitchenette opens into a multipurpose space via a sliding door, allowing the area to flex between programming, workshops, and community events, demonstrating Aura’s ability to build adaptable environments that evolve with client needs.

Back‑of‑House & Staff Spaces
In parallel with client areas, Aura designed a full suite of staff spaces, including open workstations, private offices, meeting rooms, and a staff room. These spaces support collaboration, privacy, and staff well-being, recognizing the importance of those who deliver care.

Graphics & Artwork
Integrated graphics and artwork activate the space and reinforce a sense of belonging. Features include a writable wall, a donor recognition wall, a community wall, an interactive installation, and murals, allowing the centre to celebrate community support and remain dynamic over time.

The new location is a welcoming, thoughtfully designed environment that reflects its mission of accessible, integrated care. Through Aura’s design-build methodology, the project was delivered with clarity, compassion, and fiscal responsibility, ensuring that the budget was optimized without sacrificing quality or experience.

The completed space supports youth, families, and staff alike, offering a calm, inclusive setting where meaningful care can take place.