Recognized as an international hub for medical research and education, the University of British Columbia Life Sciences Centre (LSC) opened in six phases only 29 months after breaking ground. The building is composed of three large five storey blocks, connected by atria, with two basement levels. A highly sophisticated space with interstitial floors and a complex program, the facility includes a range of different spaces including laboratories with Biosafety ratings of 2 and 3, a vivarium, wet and dry labs, two lecture theatres each seating up to 350 students, a 128 seat lecture theatre and 42 classrooms of varying sizes.

The LSC is LEED Gold certified particularly impressive due to the building’s significant laboratory component.The LSC has allowed the UBC Faculty of Medicine to almost double its enrollment, graduating 224 new physicians every year. Architectural elements include large skylights, extensive wood panelling, articulated flooring patterns and a dramatic central concourse that connects to interior courtyards and gardens. Light diffusing glazed elements articulate the spaces featured at each end of the atria. A curved stair sweeps down the lower auditoria, restaurant and public gathering space. This project was completed by Bunting Coady Architects, who merged with B+H in December 2010.

 

This project was undertaken in joint venture with Diamond Schmitt Architects.