Botanical and zoological images are subtly embedded. They signal the scientific work within the Biological Sciences Building. This building stands as a vibrant hub for research and learning at the heart of the University of British Columbia.
The Biological Sciences Building completed a significant upgrade in 2011. It transformed a 1950s brutalist structure into a world-class research environment. This renewal fostered collaboration between professors and students. Acton Ostry Architects Inc. led the architectural transformation. Scott Construction Ltd. served as the general contractor.
Notice the three seismic buttresses. Each one is clad with illuminated glass panels. These panels display miniature botanical and zoological images. The images act as pixels forming larger pictures. These signal the work inside.
Inside the Biological Sciences Building, state-of-the-art laboratories await. Aquaria teem with life. Classrooms buzz with activity. Administrative offices hum with purpose. These facilities serve the Departments of Botany and Zoology. Look for the research lounges along the daylit corridors. Wood paneling and art glass create inviting spaces. They encourage informal collaboration.
The UBC BioSciences Renewal Project focused on sustainability. It aimed to create a functional and aesthetic environment. The design drew inspiration from nature. It reinforced the building’s role at UBC. Dean of Science, Meigan Aronson said she looks forward to generations of UBC Science students walking through the doors. She hopes they will discover their scientific dreams. She hopes they feel empowered to pursue them.
Purpose-built teaching laboratories cater to each bioscience discipline’s unique needs. These range from biochemistry to botany. Classroom windows fill the spaces with light. The design incorporates bridge connections. They link existing and new areas of the building. These links offer spaces for study and conversation.
The building’s glazing features frit patterns. These patterns are modeled on natural geometric designs. Examples include dragonfly wings and giraffe spots. The Biosciences Courtyard serves as an outdoor teaching platform. It features Indigenous plants and plant collections. This strengthens UBC’s commitment to a Living Laboratory campus.
The Biological Sciences Building achieved LEED Gold certification. It reflects a commitment to sustainability. The project incorporated several key features. These included stormwater collection to a bioswale. An energy recovery system captures heat from exhaust. Low-flow fixtures and waterless urinals conserve water. The building uses an advanced hydronic system. This uses water-to-water heat pumps. It also uses UBC’s steam utility network.
The Biological Sciences Building earned several awards. These include the 2011 Silver VRCA Award of Excellence. Also the 2012 Sustainable Architecture & Building Green Award.
Faculty, students, and staff benefit from the pleasing environment. The revitalized Biological Sciences Building ensures years of productive work. It stands as a testament to sustainable design. It also represents a commitment to scientific advancement.