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Bing Wing Thom, architect (b at Hong Kong 8 Dec 1940). Thom and his family immigrated to Canada in 1950. He studied architecture at the University of British Columbia (1966) and the University of California, Berkeley (1969) before moving to Tokyo in 1971 to work for Japanese architect-urbanist Fumihiko Maki. A year later, Thom returned to Canada and became personnel and project director for Arthur ERICKSON Architects. In this capacity, he oversaw such notable projects as Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto (1977), the Robson Square/Courthouse Complex in Vancouver (1973-79) and the Saudi Arabian Government's Air Defence Ministry Building in Jeddah.
In 1981, Thom established his own firm, Vancouver-based Bing Thom Architects. One of his best-known projects is the zinc-clad Canada Pavilion at Expo 92 in Seville, Spain. Of the 110 international pavilions erected, it was the only one retained as a legacy of the fair. Thom's design strength is in finding unique design solutions that look and feel appropriate in their context. As such, every building conveys a meaning beyond its stated purpose. For example, at the False Creek Yacht Club in Vancouver (1992 AIBC Lieutenant Governor of BC Medal and 1990 Governor General Award, RAIC), the structural pilings are extended through the building and transformed into "masts" complete with cables, making the building resemble a boat, thus emphasizing the feeling of being on the water. Likewise, the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts at the University of British Columbia (1997) is a music hall that, through its use of curves and cables, resembles a musical instrument such as a cello or piano. Thom's work encompasses a wide range of projects from residential to hospitality (1990 Interior Designers Institute of BC Award for the New World Harbourside Hotel) and institutional projects. He has also developed the Dalian New Town masterplan for Dalian, China. Located on the coast of China near the North Korean border, Dalian is one of the largest ports in the world. In 1996 Thom was awarded the Order of Canada.
 Canada PavillionCanada Pavillion, interior (courtesy Bing Thom Architects).
 Chan Centre, ExteriorChan Centre, exterior, Vancouver (courtesy Bing Thom Architects).
Author
JANET COLLINS
Links to Other Sites
Bing Thom Architects
The multimedia website for Bing Thom Architects, internationally renowned for award-winning cultural projects such as performing arts centres, civic buildings, museums, and mixed use facilities which integrate commercial, residential and cultural uses.
Chan Centre for the Performing Arts
The website for the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts at the University of British Columbia. Hosts a variety of musical performances, lectures, conferences, and more.
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