Four storey mural is a highlight of health sciences campus building

Project: British Columbia Institute of Technology Health Sciences Centre

Location: Burnaby, Canada

Award: Publicly Accessible Interiors, Education, Gold, 2023

Design Practice: Stantec Architecture

Client: British Columbia Institute of Technology

The British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) Health Sciences Centre (HSC) is one of the largest health science education centres in North America. Stantec’s “four-corner” design features four façades, each positioned as an entrance that immediately orients visitors to the main circulation, the commons. The design story moves users from earthy terracotta tones on the first floor, transitioning to blue sky on the fourth floor. The impressive four-storey mural created by Chase Gray, a Musqueam and Tsimshian artist, captures the connection between nature and the city.

Stantec’s design aims to balance the wellbeing of people, building efficiency and the environment as a holistic approach to sustainability in this energy efficient, low-carbon emission building.

Design highlights

The commons is composed of three bleacher-style staircases connected to the amphitheatre, study and garden. These spaces support various formal and informal learning typologies and experiences. Within this are spaces that support extensive simulations mimicking a wide variety of healthcare settings, including an operation/trauma room, intensive care units (ICU), neonatal intensive care units (NICU), clinic spaces, home care with associated medical equipment and VR/AR simulation space. The simulation centre prepares students for technical, real-world circumstances while the commons allows for social connectivity and theoretical exploration.

Photo credit: Barrie Underhill, Upper Left Photography and Ed White, Ed White Photographics