The Cowichan District Hospital Replacement

The Story

The Cowichan District Hospital Replacement is a transformative healthcare project bringing a new nine-storey, 204-bed community hospital to people in Cowichan valley communities. Designed to centralize and expand services, the facility will include four distinct areas: the Diagnostic and Treatment Building, the Inpatient Unit Tower, the Reach Out Building, and the Services Centre Building.

The new hospital will more than double the number of spaces in the emergency department, expand operating room capacity, and introduce advanced imaging technologies including built-in MRI. It will also feature a dedicated birthing unit, enhanced mental health services, and culturally safe spaces for traditional healing practices. As a teaching site for the University of British Columbia Island Medical Program, the hospital will support the next generation of healthcare professionals while improving access to care across the region. 

As part of the Nuts'a'maat Alliance, EllisDon is leading the construction of the new facility with a focus on precision, safety, and long-term performance. The structure spans over 607,601 square feet and includes a helipad and 800 parking spaces—double the current capacity.

Facilities Services

EllisDon’s early involvement in design and construction ensures that operational needs are embedded into every decision. From system selection to energy efficiency and building finishes, the team is focused on delivering a facility that supports long-term maintenance, adaptability, and patient-centered care.

Sustainability

The hospital is targeting LEED Gold certification, reflecting a commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable design. The facility is all-electric, excels at water efficiency, and includes renewable energy production and mass timber elements.

Culturally safe services and spaces are integrated throughout the facility, supporting traditional healing practices and creating inclusive environments for patients and families.

Furniture, Equipment & Design

The Furniture, Equipment & Design (FED) team is delivering full-service support for furniture, fixtures and equipment (FF&E) across planning, procurement, activation, and project management. Throughout the process, the team is collaborating with the client and key stakeholders, managing the FF&E list through a centralized database, and overseeing procurement activities. Our team is procuring pharmacy furniture for the new facility and is also supporting the final stages of FF&E implementation, ensuring equipment is delivered, installed, and fully operational. The team’s approach integrates FF&E seamlessly into the broader project delivery, supporting functionality, design intent, and operational readiness.

Achievements 

• Zero Carbon Building (ZCB) Design Standard™ Certification, 2025
• Salmon Safe Certification, 2025