University of British Columbia Biological Sciences Complex Renewal

As part of the University of British Columbia (UBC) Renew program, RJC provided structural engineering and building envelope consulting services for the West and South Wings of the Biological Sciences Complex.

The renovated buildings provide new laboratory and teaching facilities for the UBC Science faculty.As this was not a heritage building, the structural approach taken was to locate the seismic upgrading system on the exterior of the building.

An exterior system of concrete walls and buttresses was developed which provided articulation and enhanced the exterior appearance of the building’s facade.

As an added benefit, it enabled the design team to minimize cost and allow maximum utilization of the interior spaces in the building.

The thermal performance, air tightness, and long term durability of systems were all greatly improved.The roof was re-done with a new high albedo modified bitumen roof membrane providing LEED credits and a durable, watertight assembly.The existing underperforming windows were replaced, and for the walls the existing pre-cast was utilized, applying spray foam insulation to the interior to provide airtightness and improved insulation values.