Two basic building types are proposed: podiums combined with slender towers and 6-8 storey midrise buildings.

 

What We Heard

  • A need for more affordable housing options for the UBC community.

  • Concern about the impacts of tall buildings on views, sunlight, and area character.

  • Acceptance of taller buildings if they are thoughtfully located and well designed with innovative and sustainable architectural features.

  • A high value on sense of place and community building

How the Options Respond

  • A large area on the west side of the site dedicated to 6 to 8 storey midrise buildings with ground- oriented units, for faculty and staff.

  • A transition of building intensity from higher buildings near East Mall (minimizes neighbourhood impacts and best supports future transit connections) to lower buildings near the Botanical Garden to minimize impacts to the Garden and improve view and shadow performance.

Key Differences

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Why tall buildings?

Tall buildings locate density on strategic sites, freeing up more area for midrise, affordable housing and open space. They also optimize value for the leasehold sites to support the Endowment.

Why 6-to-8 storey woodframe?

Woodframe construction is affordable and sustainable. Current building code allows a maximum of 6 storeys in woodframe construction, however looking to Building Code updates, we can see a future where 8 storeys is safely and efficiently achievable. The goal of the Plan is to be flexible, allowing for possible height variation while maintaining affordability and increasing open space.

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LAND USE PLAN AMENDMENT

Allowing buildings above 22 storeys requires a Land Use Plan Amendment. Other proposed Land Use Plan amendments include changes to density and updating the neighbourhood boundary (to reflect the new location of the stadium). A Land Use Plan amendment requires a public hearing (in early 2019) and Provincial approval.