VANCOUVER — Ryder Architecture and 3XN GXN will provide architectural services for the University of British Columbia’s (UBC) Lower Mall Precinct Phase One project.
The $560-million build includes the largest provincially funded housing project to date, a Ryder release said, delivering over 1,500 new beds, contributing to B.C.’s remaining target of approximately 6,700 new student housing beds by 2028.
“By integrating mass timber technologies and adhering to CleanBC initiatives, we are committed to advancing UBC’s sustainability goals. Our team, supported by 3XN GXN’s research-driven studio, pioneers strategic sustainability within the construction industry,” Ryder principal Adam James said in a statement.
The Lower Mall Precinct Phase One project will be comprised of five buildings totalling 710,000 square feet and will include an 18-storey tower, an eight-storey mass timber hybrid prototype structure, and the adaptive reuse of a historic fire hall.
The development also includes 1,508 student housing beds with a focus on graduate students, a 400-seat dining hall, 37 new child care spaces, common amenity spaces and academic and administrative office spaces, the release said.
The buildings will target net-zero emissions by 2035, achieve LEED Gold certification, and adhere to the UBC LEED Implementation Guide. It will also be zero-waste ready with a 10 per cent reduction in embodied carbon.
Construction is scheduled to begin in fall 2026 with the project expected to open for students in phases starting in fall 2028 and completing in fall 2029.
“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,” 3XN GXN North America partner in charge Jens Holm added.
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