UBC c̓əsnaʔəm leləm̓ Residences

Taking a cue from the neighboring woods, the LEED Platinum–certified c̓əsnaʔəm leləm̓ residence uses irregularly patterned and colored brickwork to evoke a stand of Douglas Fir. Public Architecture designed the six-storey, 350-bed building to balance the immediate needs of students with long-term site viability, supporting year-round use through both student housing and summer conference programming. Community is at the heart of the design, with social spaces and kitchens scaled for individuals, floor-wide gatherings, and the entire residence. The building prioritizes inclusivity with universally accessible rooms and all-gender washrooms. Large windows and strategic vantage points optimize passive surveillance across the ground level and social hubs.