We are proud to announce that the Cowichan District Hospital Replacement Project, now operating as Quw’utsun Valley Hospital / Quw’utsun Hulitun-ew’t-hw, has received Gold Recognition in the 2026 Touchstone Awards from The Center for Health Design, one of the highest distinctions in evidence-based healthcare design.
The Touchstone Award recognizes excellence in the intentional use of evidence‑based design (EBD) to improve health outcomes, operational performance, and user experience within healthcare environments. This recognition reflects Island Health and Parkin’s collaborative approach to delivering innovative, research‑driven hospital, primary, and community health solutions, developed through meaningful engagement with care teams and Cowichan communities and designed to meet evolving regional health needs. This prestigious honor reflects Island Health’s commitment to delivering innovative hospital, primary, and community health solutions that respond to both current and future regional health needs.
On March 10, 2026, the project was formally awarded Gold-level Touchstone recognition demonstrating achievement across all three evidence-based design (EBD) Touchstones: Collaboration, Evaluation, and Sharing. The jury commented on the project’s integrated, transparent, and forward-thinking approach, while highlighting a holistic commitment to advancing evidence-based healthcare design practice.
Jurors consistently praised the project for its depth, rigor and holistic design approach, noting:
- “The project demonstrated a thorough and complete planning and design process with great user involvement at every stage of the project.
- “Exemplary alignment of vision, goals, and objectives with EDB principles, user engagement, and measurable outcomes.”
- “A well-defined and credible business case with a clear rationale and alignment to infection control objectives.”
Although a formal post-occupancy evaluation cannot be completed until the hospital becomes operational in late spring 2027, the team has already established a comprehensive and structured plan for future evaluation. These future insights are expected to contribute meaningful industry knowledge and establish a legacy of learning and impact in evidence-based healthcare design.
Project partners
Parkin Architects accepted the award at the International Summit & Exhibition on Health Facility Planning, Design & Construction on behalf of the project’s Nuts’a’maat Alliance, which includes Island Health, EllisDon Corporation, Infrastructure BC, and BC Infrastructure Benefits. Parkin extends its congratulations and appreciation to all partners and contributors whose expertise and commitment helped make this recognition possible.
Parkin Principal, Kyle Basilius and Senior Associate, Melinda Lobo represent Parkin to accept the honourable award
Learn more
Read the full announcement from Island Health: Quw’utsun Valley Hospital awarded Gold Touchstone Award for excellence in evidence-based design.
To learn more about the Touchstone Award and view the 2026 Evidence Based Design Touchstone Award Recipients, visit The Center for Health Design.