Wilson’s namesake design school opens its doors
Lululemon founder chipped in $8 million for new Kwantlen Polytechnic expansion
A state-of-the-art design school named after the founder of activewear giant Lululemon is the latest addition to Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s campus in Richmond.
The Wilson School of Design, named in honour of project donor Chip Wilson and his wife Shannon, will add 140 full-time seats at the university, bringing the number of design spaces to almost 700.
In opening the facility on Wednesday, Advanced Education Minister Melanie Mark said the facility will drive students’ budding design, creative and business goals to the next level.
In addition to expanded study and design areas, the $36-million high-tech space includes teaching studios and labs, a testing centre and advanced technology such as laser cutters, 3D printers and ultrasonic welders.
The facility will provide space for existing design programs, such as the bachelor of design in fashion and technology, bachelor of interior design and continuing and professional education.
The building will also house the university’s product design and technical apparel design programs, which educate students in the development of performance, technical, medical and protective wear.
“Design careers are vital for a 21st-century diversified economy,” Mark said in a news release.
Cultivating design talent in British Columbia will support the apparel sector, which is poised for strong growth.
“Cultivating design talent in British Columbia will support the apparel sector, which is poised for strong growth,” she said.
Wilson credited B.C.’s environment for driving an unparalleled demand for technical apparel. Lululemon reported a third-quarter profit of US$58.9 million in December.
“The province is home to worldclass technical-apparel companies, and we now have a state-of-the-art facility and training programs to supply the technical demand,” he said in the release.
The Wilson School of Design building was funded with $12 million from the B.C. government, $12 million from Kwantlen Polytechnic and $12 million in donations that include $8 million from the Wilsons.