Ryder Architecture and 3XN GXN have been selected to provide architectural services for the University of British Columbia’s (UBC) Lower Mall Precinct Phase One project. Valued at $560 million, the project is the largest provincially funded student housing initiative to date, adding over 1,500 new beds to help meet British Columbia’s target of 6,700 new beds by 2028.
The development will comprise five buildings, totaling 710,000 square feet, including an 18-storey tower and an eight-storey mass timber hybrid prototype structure. The project will also feature the adaptive reuse of a historic fire hall, 1,508 student housing beds, a 400-seat dining hall, 37 child care spaces, and academic and administrative offices. The buildings aim to achieve net-zero emissions by 2035, LEED Gold certification, and a 10% reduction in embodied carbon.
“By integrating mass timber technologies and adhering to CleanBC initiatives, we are committed to advancing UBC’s sustainability goals,” said Adam James, Principal, Ryder. “We work with clients we respect on projects we believe in. This is an equal partnership, not a design-and-delivery model. Together, we will deliver the best project outcomes, enhancing learning and setting new standards for campus development,” said Jens Holm, Partner in Charge, North America, 3XN GXN. Construction is set to begin in fall 2026, with phased openings starting in fall 2028 and completing in fall 2029.
Source: canada.constructionconnect.com
